Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
Get ready to fall in love with this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup recipe! This comforting dish brings together tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a creamy, flavorful cream sauce that’s sure to win hearts at the dinner table. Perfect for cozy nights or weeknight dinners, this is a rich and satisfying meal that promises warmth and deliciousness in every spoonful.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 50 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich Flavors: The blend of Italian seasonings, fresh spinach, and creamy broth creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
- Family-Friendly: With its comforting taste and hearty ingredients, this soup is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize the soup by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins to suit your taste.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch ahead of time for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
To make the Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, you will need some essential tools and equipment. Having the right tools can make cooking easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking soups evenly without burning.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables efficiently.
- Chef’s knife: Ensures precise cutting of chicken and veggies for even cooking.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (Diced into 1 inch pieces; I used 1 1/2 pounds.)
- 2 teaspoons Italian Seasoning (Divided)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/4 cup diced sundried tomatoes
- 3 garlic cloves (Minced)
For Thickening the Soup
- 1/4 cup flour
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste (Optional See notes)
For Adding Flavor
- 6-8 cups chicken broth (I recommend starting with 6 cups. See notes.)
- 6 oz pasta (I used Italian small shells.)
For Creaminess
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2-1 cup grated parmesan reggiano cheese
For Freshness
- 2 1/2-3 cups fresh spinach
How to Make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil
Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken along with 1 teaspoon of Italian Seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Cook until browned on all sides, about 4–5 minutes.
Step 2: Add Vegetables
In the same pot, add the onions, carrots, celery, sundried tomatoes, and garlic. Cook until translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
Step 3: Incorporate Flour
Sprinkle the flour throughout the mixture and stir well to combine. Add the flour gradually to avoid excess drying. If using tomato paste, add it now and stir thoroughly.
Step 4: Whisk in Chicken Broth
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth while stirring repeatedly to ensure there are no lumps. Use your spoon to deglaze the bottom of the pan.
Step 5: Cook Pasta
Bring the mixture to a rolling boil then add in the pasta along with another teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Cover with a lid, reduce heat to low, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes until chicken is cooked through and pasta is al dente. Alternatively, you can boil pasta separately and add it later.
Step 6: Final Touches
Open the pot and stir in heavy cream, spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
Step 7: Adjust Seasoning
Taste your soup before serving; adjust seasoning with salt or spices if needed.
Now your delicious Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is ready to serve! Enjoy this delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
Serving Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup can elevate your dining experience. Here are some delightful suggestions to make each bowl even more enjoyable.
With Fresh Bread
- Crusty Baguette: Perfect for dipping, a warm baguette adds a crunchy texture to the creamy soup.
- Garlic Bread: The garlic flavor complements the richness of the soup beautifully and is always a crowd-pleaser.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Basil: Adds a fresh, aromatic touch that brightens up each spoonful.
- Parsley Sprinkles: A simple garnish that enhances the visual appeal and adds freshness.
With a Side Salad
- Caesar Salad: The crispness of romaine lettuce and creamy dressing pairs wonderfully with the soup’s flavors.
- Mixed Green Salad: Light and refreshing, this salad balances the richness of the soup nicely.
As a Meal Prep Option
- Packaged for Lunch: Store leftovers in individual containers for easy reheating throughout the week.
- Freezer-Friendly: Portion out servings to freeze and enjoy on busy days when you need a quick meal.
How to Perfect Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
To ensure your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavor profile significantly.
- Don’t Rush the Cooking Process: Allowing the ingredients to cook thoroughly develops richer flavors.
- Adjust Consistency as Needed: If the soup is too thick, add extra broth or cream until desired consistency is reached.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Always taste before serving; adding a pinch more salt or herbs can elevate the dish.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes make for a comforting pairing, perfect for soaking up any leftover soup.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slight bitterness contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup, adding depth to your meal.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.
- Cheesy Biscuits: Fluffy and cheesy, these biscuits are perfect for dipping into your delicious bowl of soup.
- Quinoa Salad: A healthy option packed with nutrients that complements the heartiness of the chicken soup.
- Stuffed Peppers: Colorful and flavorful stuffed peppers can serve as an exciting main side dish alongside your soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can impact the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
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Skipping the seasoning: Failing to adequately season your chicken and vegetables can lead to a bland soup. Always season at each step for depth of flavor.
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Neglecting the simmer time: Rushing through the cooking process can result in tough chicken or undercooked pasta. Allow enough time for the flavors to meld and the chicken to become tender.
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Using low-quality broth: A good broth is key to a flavorful soup. Opt for homemade or high-quality store-bought chicken broth for the best results.
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Overcooking the spinach: Adding spinach too early can lead it to become mushy and lose its vibrant color. Stir it in at the end of cooking for a fresh taste and appealing look.
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Not adjusting consistency: If your soup is too thick, you might need to add more broth or cream. Always check consistency before serving, so it meets your preference.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
- The soup can be frozen for up to 2-3 months for optimal freshness.
Reheating Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
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Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warm throughout.
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Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until hot.
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Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions about making Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup:
What makes this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup special?
This soup combines tender chicken with fresh vegetables and a creamy sauce, creating a hearty meal perfect for any occasion.
Can I use other types of meat?
Yes! Feel free to substitute chicken with turkey or even Italian sausage for different flavors.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to include additional veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
Is this soup gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your pasta is gluten-free as well.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is not just comforting; it’s also versatile and easy to customize. You can adjust ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cozy night in or sharing it with loved ones, this soup is sure to delight everyone at the dinner table.
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Get ready to warm your heart with this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup—a delightful blend of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a rich, creamy sauce that’s perfect for any occasion. This comforting dish is not only a feast for the senses but also incredibly easy to whip up in under 50 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy evenings at home, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your choice of veggies or proteins, making it an ideal meal prep option for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Ingredients
- Olive oil
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Italian seasoning
- Carrots
- Celery
- Onions
- Sundried tomatoes
- Garlic
- Flour
- Tomato paste (optional)
- Chicken broth
- Pasta (small shells recommended)
- Heavy whipping cream
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh spinach
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken seasoned with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; brown for 4-5 minutes.
- Stir in onions, carrots, celery, sundried tomatoes, and garlic; cook until translucent (3-4 minutes).
- Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir well. If using tomato paste, add it now.
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth while stirring to avoid lumps.
- Bring to a boil and add pasta along with additional seasoning; cover and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream, spinach, and Parmesan; simmer for another 5 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
