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 rich, creamy sauce that is perfect for cozy nights or quick weeknight dinners. This soup not only warms the soul but also satisfies your taste buds with its delightful flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe is straightforward and takes just about 50 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Flavorful Comfort: The blend of Italian seasonings, garlic, and creamy cheese creates a rich taste that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily modify ingredients to suit your tastes or use what you have on hand—perfect for any kitchen!
• Crowd-Pleaser: With enough servings for 10, this soup is great for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
• Nutritious: Packed with protein from the chicken and nutrients from the vegetables and spinach, this soup makes a satisfying yet healthy meal.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, you’ll need some essential tools to make the cooking process smooth and 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 even cooking; these pots allow for perfect simmering without burning.
• Chef’s knife: A good quality knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring uniform pieces that cook evenly.

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

Vegetables

• 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)

Thickening Agent

• 1/4 cup flour
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste (Optional See notes)

Broth & Cream

• 6-8 cups chicken broth (I recommend starting with 6 cups. See notes.)
• 6 oz pasta (I used Italian small shells.)
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream

Finishing Touches

• 1/2 – 1 cup grated parmesan reggiano cheese
• 2 1/2 – 3 cups fresh spinach

How to Make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

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, which should take about 4–5 minutes.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the onions, carrots, celery, sundried tomatoes, and minced garlic. Cook until they become translucent; this should take around 3–4 minutes.

Step 3: Add Flour and Tomato Paste

Sprinkle flour throughout the vegetable mixture and stir well to combine. It’s best to add flour in stages to prevent excess drying. If you’re using tomato paste, add it at this stage as well and stir thoroughly.

Step 4: Incorporate Chicken Broth

Gradually whisk in chicken broth while stirring continuously to ensure there are no lumps. Use your spoon to deglaze the bottom of the pan by scraping up any browned bits.

Step 5: Boil and Simmer

Bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Add pasta along with another teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Cover with a lid and lower heat to let it simmer for about 20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and tender while keeping pasta al dente. Alternatively, you can boil pasta separately then add it later.

Step 6: Add Cream & 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.

Step 7: Final Taste Test

Taste your delicious soup one last time before serving. Adjust seasoning with salt or spices if needed. Enjoy your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup!

How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: Serve slices of warm baguette for dipping. Its crusty texture pairs perfectly with the creamy soup.
• Garlic Bread: A classic choice, garlic bread adds a flavorful touch and makes for a hearty meal.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Basil Garnish: Sprinkle fresh basil on top just before serving for added freshness and flavor.
• Parsley Sprinkles: Chopped parsley not only enhances the presentation but also adds a burst of color and taste.

Accompanied by Grated Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese: Offer extra grated Parmesan at the table so everyone can add their preferred amount to their bowl.
• Feta Crumbles: For a twist, serve with crumbled feta cheese for a tangy flavor contrast.

Served as an Appetizer

• Small Bowls: Present the soup in smaller bowls as an appetizer before the main course. It’s perfect for starting off any meal.

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How to Perfect Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

To make your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup truly unforgettable, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables and herbs to enhance the soup’s flavor significantly.
• Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, add more flour gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
• Add Spice: For a kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the mix while cooking to give it an extra layer of flavor.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for about 10 minutes after cooking helps meld the flavors together beautifully.

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:

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup perfectly.
2. Caprese Salad: This classic Italian salad provides freshness and balances out the creamy texture of the soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies add a delightful crunch and additional nutrients to your meal.
4. Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits are great for soaking up every last drop of that delicious soup.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms: Packed with cheese and herbs, these savory bites offer an elegant touch to your dinner spread.
6. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins create a comforting pairing that everyone will enjoy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the seasoning – Neglecting to season at different stages can lead to bland soup. Always taste and adjust as you go along.
• Overcooking the chicken – This can make your chicken tough. Cook just until done, then remove it from heat.
• Using too much flour – Adding too much flour can thicken the soup excessively. Gradually sprinkle and stir in flour to achieve your desired consistency.
• Crowding the pot – Adding too many ingredients at once can hinder even cooking. Add them in stages for better results.
• Not letting it simmer long enough – This could result in underdeveloped flavors. Allow the soup to simmer adequately to blend all the tastes.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion during freezing.

Reheating Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop – Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot, usually about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup that may help enhance your cooking experience.

Can I use leftover chicken for this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?

Yes! Using leftover chicken can save time and add great flavor. Just shred or dice it before adding it to the soup.

What type of pasta works best in this soup?

Italian small shells or any small pasta shape work well. They hold onto the creamy broth nicely.

How do I customize my Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?

Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative for a delicious twist.

Is Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This soup stores well, making it perfect for meal prep. Just reheat when ready to enjoy.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is an irresistible dish that captures comfort and warmth in every bite. Its rich flavors and versatility allow you to customize it easily based on your preferences. Whether you’re having a cozy night in or need a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to delight everyone at your table.