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 Italian seasoning and fresh ingredients creates a deep, savory taste that delights your palate.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, you can whip up this soup quickly on a busy weeknight.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with chicken, veggies, and pasta, this soup serves as a complete meal in one bowl.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize the vegetables or use different types of pasta based on what you have at home.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup keeps well in the fridge or freezer, making it ideal for batch cooking and easy lunches throughout the week.

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Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather these essential tools before starting.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven: Provides ample space for all ingredients to cook evenly without spilling.
• Cutting board: Protects your countertops while allowing you to chop vegetables safely.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient amounts for consistent results every time.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 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)
• 1/4 cup flour
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste (Optional See notes)
• 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
• 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, 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 translucent, about 3–4 minutes.

Step 3: Add Flour

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

Step 4: Incorporate 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: Boil & Simmer

Bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Add in the pasta along with another teaspoon of Italian seasoning; season with salt and pepper again if desired. Cover with a lid and lower the heat to let it simmer for about 20 minutes until chicken is cooked through, tender, and pasta is al dente. Alternatively, you can boil pasta separately and 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 five minutes.

Step 7: Final Taste Adjustments

Taste your soup before serving. Adjust seasoning with additional salt or spices if needed.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup!

How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is a delightful and rich dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or sharing it with friends, here are some serving suggestions to make the most of this delicious soup.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve the soup with a slice of crusty bread for dipping. The bread soaks up the creamy broth beautifully.

Over Rice

• Pour the soup over a bed of fluffy rice. This adds texture and helps absorb the flavors, making each bite even more satisfying.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your bowl with fresh basil or parsley. This not only enhances the presentation but adds a burst of freshness.

Accompanied by a Salad

• Pair the soup with a light salad. A simple mixed green salad balances the richness of the soup while adding crunch.

In a Bread Bowl

• For a fun twist, serve the soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl. This creates an edible serving dish that’s perfect for any gathering.

As Part of a Dinner Spread

• Include Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup as part of a multi-course dinner. It pairs well with Italian entrees like pasta or roasted meats.

How to Perfect Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Perfecting Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to elevate your cooking game.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Always opt for fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken for the best flavor.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning for a personalized flavor profile.

• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add more veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrition and texture.

• Stir Gently: When adding cream and cheese, stir gently to avoid breaking down the ingredients too much.

• Simmer Slowly: Allowing the soup to simmer longer enhances flavors. Just ensure you don’t overcook the pasta if it’s added directly.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup pairs beautifully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to complement your meal.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy broth.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and complements the flavors of the soup well.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide sweetness and depth alongside the savory soup.
4. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing bite.
5. Parmesan Crisps: These crunchy bites add texture and extra cheesy goodness to your meal.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad packed with veggies makes for a nutritious side that balances richness.
7. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms can bring an appetizer flair that pairs well with the creamy soup.
8. Cheesy Biscuit: Flaky, cheesy biscuits are another comforting option to enjoy alongside this hearty dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup can be easy, but certain mistakes might compromise its taste and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Chicken: Ensure you don’t cook the chicken too long as it may turn dry. Cook until just browned and tender.
• Skipping the Deglazing: Not scraping the bottom of the pot can result in a lack of flavor. Always deglaze to capture those tasty bits.
• Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Tasting and adjusting seasonings at various stages is critical for flavor balance. Don’t skip this step!
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Poor quality broth or cheese will affect the overall dish. Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results.
• Adding Cream Too Soon: If you add cream too early, it may curdle. Wait until the soup has simmered before adding it for a smooth finish.

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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 freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space in containers as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat on medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, along with their answers.

Can I use different types of chicken?

Yes, both boneless thighs and breasts work well. Choose based on your preference!

Is there a vegetarian version of Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?

Absolutely! You can replace chicken with tofu or beans and use vegetable broth.

How can I customize this recipe?

Feel free to add more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers based on your taste!

What if I don’t have sundried tomatoes?

You can substitute with fresh tomatoes or omit them altogether if necessary.

How do I make this soup spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños during cooking for extra heat.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is not only heartwarming but also versatile. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings. Feel free to customize with your favorite ingredients and enjoy every spoonful!