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
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this creamy soup can be made even on busy weeknights.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of Italian seasoning, garlic, and fresh spinach creates a taste that will leave you wanting more.
- Versatile Meal: Enjoy it as a hearty dinner or a delightful lunch option. It can easily be paired with crusty bread or a fresh salad.
- Comforting and Warm: Ideal for chilly days, this soup is like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for cozy gatherings.
- Feeding a Crowd: This recipe yields about 10 cups, making it perfect for family meals or sharing with friends.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare the Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, having the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven: Enables even cooking and allows you to simmer the soup without spilling.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.
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)
Thickeners and Flavorings
- 1/4 cup flour
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste (Optional See notes)
Liquid Ingredients
- 6-8 cups chicken broth (I recommend starting with 6 cups. See notes.)
- 6 oz pasta (I used Italian small shells.)
Creaminess Factor
- 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: Sauté 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: Cook the Vegetables
In the same pot, add the onions, carrots, celery, sundried tomatoes, and garlic. Cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 3: Add Flour
Sprinkle the flour throughout the mixture and stir well to combine. Add flour gradually 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: Cook Pasta
Bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Add in the pasta along with another teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Cover the pot with a lid and lower heat to let it simmer for about 20 minutes until chicken is cooked through and pasta is al dente. You can also boil pasta separately if preferred.
Step 6: Finish with Cream & Spinach
Open the pot and stir in the heavy cream, fresh spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
Step 7: Season to Taste
Taste your creamy soup one last time before serving! Adjust seasoning with salt and spices if needed.
Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup!
How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
Serving Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup can elevate your dining experience. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this soup pairs beautifully with various accompaniments. Here are some delightful serving suggestions.
Garnish Ideas
- Fresh Basil – Chopped fresh basil adds a burst of color and freshness.
- Grated Parmesan – A sprinkle of grated parmesan enhances the cheesy goodness.
- Chili Flakes – For those who like a kick, chili flakes can spice things up.
Pairing with Bread
- Crusty Baguette – Perfect for dipping into the creamy broth.
- Garlic Bread – Adds a flavorful crunch that complements the soup wonderfully.
- Dinner Rolls – Soft rolls make for a comforting addition to your meal.
Serving in Style
- Individual Bowls – Serve in warm bowls for a cozy presentation.
- Soup Bar – Set up a soup bar with toppings like croutons and herbs for guests to customize.
How to Perfect Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
To ensure your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavor profile significantly.
- Cook Pasta Separately – This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy in the soup.
- Adjust Thickness – For a thicker soup, add more flour or cream as needed.
- Taste as You Go – Regularly tasting allows you to adjust seasoning and flavors accordingly.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup can create a complete meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Garlic Breadsticks – These soft, buttery breadsticks are perfect for soaking up the soup’s creamy sauce.
- Caesar Salad – A crisp Caesar salad adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.
- Roasted Vegetables – Seasoned roasted veggies provide a healthy and colorful side.
- Cheesy Rice Casserole – A creamy rice dish complements the soup’s flavors beautifully.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers – Hearty and filling, stuffed bell peppers make for an impressive pairing.
- Caprese Skewers – Light and fresh, these skewers balance out the richness of the soup with their vibrant flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup can be a delightful experience, but there are a few common pitfalls to steer clear of.
- Overcooking the Chicken: When you cook the chicken for too long, it can become dry and tough. To avoid this, monitor the cooking time closely and check for doneness.
- Skipping the Deglazing Step: Neglecting to deglaze the pan can lead to a less flavorful soup. Make sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot when adding the broth.
- Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Poor-quality chicken or broth will impact the taste of your soup. Invest in good ingredients for the best results.
- Not Adjusting Seasonings: Many people forget to taste their soup before serving. Always adjust seasonings like salt and pepper according to your preference before enjoying it.
- Adding Cream Too Early: If you add cream too early, it may curdle. Stir it in towards the end of cooking for a smooth, creamy texture.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup in an airtight container.
- It will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
- You can freeze this soup for up to 2-3 months.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
Reheating Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat in a covered oven-safe dish until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power, stirring occasionally until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently until heated evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is a rich and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with fresh vegetables in a creamy broth.
Can I customize my Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?
Yes! You can add different vegetables or spices according to your taste preferences for a unique twist.
How do I make my soup thicker?
To thicken your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, consider adding more flour or using cornstarch mixed with water as a thickening agent.
Is this soup suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This soup stores well and makes an excellent choice for meal prep. Just follow proper storage guidelines.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is not only heartwarming but also versatile. With its rich flavors and comforting textures, it’s perfect for cozy nights or busy weeknights. Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or spices to make it truly your own!
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is the ultimate comfort food that promises to warm your soul with every spoonful. This delightful dish features tender chicken pieces simmered in a creamy, rich broth infused with Italian herbs and fresh vegetables. Packed with flavor and creaminess, it’s perfect for chilly evenings or a quick weeknight dinner. With its hearty ingredients like pasta, spinach, and parmesan cheese, this soup is not just satisfying but also versatile—it pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a garden salad. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy meal for one, this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup will surely become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1–1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (Diced into 1 inch pieces)
- 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)
- 6–8 cups chicken broth
- 6 oz pasta (small shells recommended)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2–1 cup grated parmesan reggiano cheese
- 2 1/2–3 cups fresh spinach
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken seasoned with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; cook until browned (4-5 minutes).
- Stir in diced onions, carrots, celery, sundried tomatoes, and minced garlic; cook until translucent (3-4 minutes).
- Sprinkle flour over the mixture; stir well. If using tomato paste, add it now.
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth while stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
- Bring to a boil; add pasta and another teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes until chicken is cooked through and pasta is al dente.
- Stir in heavy cream, fresh spinach, and grated parmesan; simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Adjust seasonings to taste before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 740mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
