Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Get ready to fall in love with this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup recipe! This comforting dish combines tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a creamy sauce that brings warmth and deliciousness to any meal. Perfect for cozy nights or weeknight dinners, this rich soup is sure to impress family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have this delightful soup on the table in under an hour.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of Italian seasoning, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes creates a rich flavor profile that tantalizes your taste buds.
• Versatile Meals: This soup can be served as a main course or as a starter, making it suitable for various occasions.
• Comfort Food: The creamy texture and hearty ingredients make it perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re craving something warm.
• Healthy Ingredients: Loaded with vegetables and lean protein, this soup is both satisfying and nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup efficiently, you’ll need some essential tools.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven: This allows you to cook all ingredients evenly while providing ample space for simmering.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface, ensuring even mixing of flavors.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurement ensures consistency in taste every time you make the soup.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup:

Protein

• 1- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (Diced into 1 inch pieces; I used 1 1/2 pounds.)

Vegetables

• 1/2 cup diced carrots
• 1/2 cup diced celery
• 1/2 cup diced onions
• 1/4 cup diced sun-dried tomatoes
• 3 garlic cloves (Minced)

Seasonings

• 2 teaspoons Italian Seasoning (Divided)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Base Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1/4 cup flour
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste (Optional See notes)
• 6-8 cups chicken broth (I recommend starting with 6 cups. See notes.)

Pasta and Dairy

• 6 oz pasta (I used Italian small shells.)
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1/2-1 cup grated parmesan reggiano cheese

Greens

• 2 1/2-3 cups fresh spinach

How to Make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken pieces 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:
Onions
Carrots
Celery
Sun-dried tomatoes
Garlic

Cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Thicken the Base

Sprinkle flour throughout the mixture.
Stir well to combine.
If using tomato paste, add it here and stir until well incorporated.

Step 4: Incorporate Broth

Gradually whisk in chicken broth.
Stir repeatedly to ensure there are no lumps.
Deglaze the bottom of the pan using your spoon.

Step 5: Simmer with Pasta

Bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
Add:
Pasta
Remaining Italian seasoning
Adjust salt and pepper as desired.
Cover with a lid and reduce heat to low. Let simmer for about 20 minutes until chicken is cooked through and pasta is al dente. Alternatively, boil pasta separately and add at the end.

Step 6: Finish with Cream and Spinach

Open the pot and stir in:
Heavy cream
Fresh spinach
Grated Parmesan cheese

Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 7: Taste & Adjust Seasoning

Taste your delicious soup once more! Adjust seasoning with salt or spices if needed before serving.

How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Serving Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup can elevate your dining experience. This rich and flavorful dish pairs well with various accompaniments, making it a perfect option for cozy dinners or gatherings.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Enjoy slices of crusty bread to soak up the creamy broth. A rustic baguette or sourdough works beautifully.

Accompany with a Fresh Salad

• Serve a light, refreshing salad on the side to balance the richness of the soup. Consider a simple mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Enhance the presentation by garnishing each bowl with fresh basil or parsley. This adds color and freshness to each serving.

Top with Parmesan Crisps

• For an extra crunch, serve crispy Parmesan cheese wafers alongside the soup. They add texture and additional flavor.

Offer a Side of Pasta

• Pair the soup with a small serving of pasta, like tortellini or orzo, for those who want a more filling meal.

How to Perfect Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Perfecting your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup can make a significant difference in flavor and texture. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Choose quality chicken – Using fresh, high-quality chicken will enhance the flavor and texture of your soup.
• Adjust seasoning – Always taste your soup before serving and adjust salt and pepper to suit your preference.
• Use homemade broth – If possible, use homemade chicken broth for richer flavors compared to store-bought options.
• Incorporate seasonal vegetables – Add seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrition and variety.
• Cook pasta separately – If you’re concerned about the pasta soaking up too much broth, cook it separately and add it just before serving.
• Let it simmer longer – Allowing the soup to simmer longer can deepen its flavors. Just be cautious not to overcook the chicken.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Complementing your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup with side dishes can create a more satisfying meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread – A classic choice that’s perfect for dipping in the creamy broth; simply spread garlic butter on bread before toasting it.
2. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese adds crunch and flavor contrast.
3. Bruschetta – Topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze, this Italian appetizer is fresh and vibrant.
4. Quinoa Salad – A protein-packed option that pairs well; mix quinoa with vegetables and a light vinaigrette for added nutrition.
5. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized bring out their natural sweetness and make a healthy side.
6. Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes mixed with garlic and cheese provide comfort alongside the soup.
7. Stuffed Mushrooms – These bite-sized treats filled with cheese and herbs offer an elegant touch to your meal.
8. Spinach Artichoke Dip – Served warm with tortilla chips or pita bread, this dip is rich and complements the soup’s flavors perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using the wrong cut of chicken: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for the best texture. Avoid using bone-in or skin-on pieces, which can alter cooking times and flavors.
• Not seasoning properly: Seasoning is key in this soup. Don’t skip salt and pepper, and taste as you go to ensure balanced flavor.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cook pasta until al dente if adding it directly to the soup. If cooked too long, it can turn mushy when reheated.
• Skipping the vegetables: The combination of carrots, celery, and onions adds depth to your soup. Omitting these will yield a less flavorful dish.
• Rushing the simmering process: Allow the soup to simmer adequately so the flavors meld together. A rushed cook will lead to a bland result.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• This soup can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in intervals, stirring between each interval until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup.

What makes Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup creamy?

The creaminess comes from heavy whipping cream added towards the end of cooking, giving it a rich texture.

Can I customize my Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.

How do I make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup dairy-free?

Use coconut milk or almond milk as substitutes for heavy cream and omit cheese for a delicious dairy-free version.

What type of pasta is best for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?

Small pasta shapes like shells or ditalini work well since they hold onto the sauce beautifully.

Can I use frozen chicken in my Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?

Yes! Just be sure to cook it thoroughly before adding other ingredients. You may need extra time for cooking.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is not just comforting; it’s also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you serve it on a chilly night or as a hearty lunch option, it’s bound to impress everyone at your table. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients!