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

• Rich Flavor: The combination of chicken, spinach, and parmesan creates a deliciously creamy taste.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, this soup can be ready in about 50 minutes.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap out vegetables or pasta to suit your taste or what you have on hand.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch for the week; it reheats beautifully!
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to impress family and friends at any gathering.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking everything evenly without overcrowding.
• Wooden spoon: Gentle on cookware and perfect for stirring without scratching your pot.
• Sharp knife: Ensures quick chopping of veggies for a smooth cooking process.

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 Liquid and Pasta

• 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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

this recipe

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: Cook the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the onions, carrots, celery, sundried tomatoes, and minced garlic. Cook until translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Add Flour and Tomato Paste

Sprinkle the flour throughout the mixture and stir well to combine. Add flour in stages to avoid excess drying. If using tomato paste, add it now and mix thoroughly.

Step 4: Incorporate Chicken Broth

Gradually whisk in the chicken broth while stirring continuously to ensure no lumps form. Use your spoon to deglaze the bottom of the pan for added flavor.

Step 5: Boil and Add Pasta

Bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Stir in the pasta along with another teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper as needed. Cover with a lid and lower heat to let simmer for about 20 minutes until chicken is tender and pasta is al dente. Alternatively, boil pasta separately if preferred.

Step 6: Mix in Cream and Spinach

Open the pot again and stir in heavy cream, fresh spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese. Allow it to simmer for an additional 5 minutes until everything is warmed through.

Step 7: Taste and Adjust

Finally, taste your soup! Adjust seasoning with more salt or spices if necessary before serving warm.

Enjoy your homemade Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, perfect for sharing around the dinner table!

How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want a light lunch or a hearty dinner, there are plenty of serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Enjoy the soup with slices of warm, crusty bread for dipping. It adds a satisfying crunch and soaks up the delicious flavors.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top before serving. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds a burst of freshness to each bowl.

Add a Squeeze of Lemon

• A squeeze of lemon juice right before serving can brighten the flavors and provide a delightful contrast to the creaminess.

Serve with a Side Salad

• A light side salad complements the richness of the soup. Consider mixed greens with a simple vinaigrette for balance.

Offer Grated Cheese on the Side

• Provide extra grated Parmesan cheese at the table for those who want an added cheesy flavor in their soup.

Garnish with Red Pepper Flakes

• For those who enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes on top before serving to give your soup an extra kick.

How to Perfect Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

To make your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup even more delightful, follow these tips for perfection:

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken for the best flavor.
• Control the Thickness: Adjust the amount of flour based on how thick you’d like your soup to be. Less flour will yield a thinner soup.
• Let it Simmer: Allow the soup to simmer longer if possible. This helps meld the flavors together beautifully.
• Taste as You Go: Always taste and adjust seasonings throughout cooking for a well-balanced dish.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for variety.
• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup can enhance your meal and create a complete dining experience. Here are some excellent choices:

1. Garlic Bread
   Perfectly toasted garlic bread adds flavor and texture, making it an ideal accompaniment.
2. Caesar Salad
   This classic salad provides crisp romaine lettuce and tangy dressing that contrasts nicely with the creamy soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables
   A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables adds color and nutrition while complementing the flavors of the soup.
4. Cheesy Biscuits
   Warm, flaky biscuits filled with cheese are delightful when dipped into this rich soup.
5. Stuffed Peppers
   Lightly stuffed bell peppers offer additional protein and fiber that pair well with this comforting dish.
6. Quinoa Salad
   A refreshing quinoa salad loaded with herbs and lemon makes for a healthy side that balances out the creaminess of the soup.
7. Pasta Salad
   A chilled pasta salad dressed lightly can provide a refreshing contrast to the hot soup.
8. Cornbread Muffins
   Sweet cornbread muffins add a touch of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with savory flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some tips to help you avoid those pitfalls.

• Not seasoning properly: Failing to season your chicken and vegetables can lead to a bland soup. Make sure to use salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning generously throughout the cooking process.
• Overcooking the pasta: If you cook the pasta directly in the soup for too long, it may become mushy. Aim for al dente texture by following the cooking time closely or cooking it separately if preferred.
• Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality ingredients can compromise flavor. Opt for fresh vegetables, high-quality chicken, and good Parmesan cheese for a richer taste.
• Skipping deglazing: Not deglazing the pot after cooking the chicken can result in burnt bits affecting flavor. Use your spoon to scrape up any browned bits after adding broth for extra depth.
• Adding cream too early: Adding heavy cream too soon may cause it to curdle. Wait until the soup has simmered before stirring in the cream for a smooth finish.
• Not adjusting seasoning at the end: Always taste your soup before serving. Adjusting with more salt or spices can elevate its flavors significantly.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool before sealing it in containers.

Freezing Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
• Leave some space at the top of containers as liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring each time.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer. Just remember to add fresh spinach and cream when reheating for best results.

What variations can I try with this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?

You can customize by adding different vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers, or even substitute chicken with shrimp or sausage for a unique twist.

How do I thicken my Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?

If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can add more flour during cooking or blend part of the soup using an immersion blender.

Is Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup healthy?

This recipe is nutritious with lean protein from chicken and plenty of vegetables. Control calories by adjusting cream and cheese amounts according to your dietary needs.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is not only delicious but also versatile enough for various occasions. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cozy night or serving it at a gathering, this recipe is bound to impress. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients! Give it a try; you’ll love every spoonful!

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Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately six people 1x

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Description

Get ready to warm your soul with this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, a delightful blend of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a rich cream sauce that will become a family favorite. Perfect for cozy nights or busy weeknights, this comforting soup offers an explosion of flavor in every spoonful. Whip up a big batch to share with loved ones or enjoy leftovers throughout the week—this dish is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to prepare.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 to 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (diced)
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 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 minced garlic cloves
• 6 to 8 cups chicken broth
• 6 oz pasta (e.g., small shells)
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2.5 to 3 cups fresh spinach
• Grated Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; cook until browned (about 4-5 minutes).
2. Stir in carrots, celery, onions, sundried tomatoes, and garlic; cook until vegetables are translucent (3-4 minutes).
3. Sprinkle flour over the mixture; stir well to combine. Add tomato paste if desired.
4. Gradually whisk in chicken broth while stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
5. Bring to a boil; add pasta and simmer for about 20 minutes until cooked through.
6. Stir in heavy cream, spinach, and grated Parmesan; simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 300g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 950mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: For added richness, use high-quality chicken and fresh vegetables. Adjust flour quantity based on desired thickness; less flour yields a thinner soup. Feel free to customize with other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.