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

• Quick and Easy: This soup comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Creamy Comfort: The addition of heavy cream gives the soup a rich texture that feels indulgent yet comforting.
• Flavor Packed: With Italian seasoning and sundried tomatoes, each spoonful bursts with flavor.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily adapt this recipe by adding your favorite veggies or using different types of pasta.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week—it’s even better the next day!

Tools and Preparation

To make your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering the soup evenly without burning.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping your ingredients.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface.

Ingredients

For the Soup

• 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 start 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: 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: Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot, add the onions, carrots, celery, sundried tomatoes, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are 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. To avoid excess drying, add flour gradually. If you choose to use tomato paste, incorporate it at this stage as well.

Step 4: Pour in Chicken Broth

Gradually whisk in the chicken broth while stirring repeatedly to eliminate any 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 with a lid and lower the heat to let it simmer for about 20 minutes until both chicken and pasta are cooked through. Alternatively, you can cook pasta separately and add it later.

Step 6: Stir in Cream and Spinach

Open the pot and stir in heavy cream, fresh spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 7: Adjust Seasoning

Taste your soup once more before serving. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and spices as needed.

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is not just delicious; it’s also a warm hug in a bowl! Enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Serving Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup can elevate your meal and impress your guests. Here are some delightful ways to present this delicious dish.

Pair with Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
• Garlic Bread: The buttery garlic flavor complements the richness of the soup beautifully.

Add a Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing adds freshness to each bite.
• Caprese Salad: The combination of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil offers a refreshing contrast.

Garnish Smartly

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil on top for added color and flavor.
• Extra Parmesan: Grate some fresh Parmesan over the soup just before serving for an extra cheesy touch.

How to Perfect Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

To make sure your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the flavor of your soup significantly.
• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, add a bit more flour or reduce the broth during cooking.
• Taste as You Go: Regularly taste your soup while cooking to ensure balanced seasoning.
• Cook Pasta Separately: Cooking pasta separately prevents it from becoming mushy in the soup. Add it just before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Complementing your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options.

1. Garlic Knots: Soft knots brushed with garlic butter add a delightful twist.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized bring out natural sweetness.
3. Cheese Quesadillas: Crispy quesadillas filled with cheese make for a fun side that pairs well.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful peppers stuffed with grains or meats offer robust flavors alongside the soup.
5. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs provide a satisfying crunch.
6. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, small oversights can lead to a less-than-ideal dish. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your chicken and vegetables can result in a bland soup. Always add salt and pepper to enhance flavors.

• Overcooking the pasta: If you cook the pasta too long, it will become mushy. Aim for al dente pasta, especially if you add it early in the cooking process.

• Neglecting to deglaze: Failing to deglaze the pot can leave burnt bits that affect flavor. Always scrape the bottom of the pot after adding broth.

• Using heavy cream too early: Adding heavy cream too soon can cause it to curdle. Stir it in at the end for a smooth texture.

• Not tasting before serving: Skipping the taste test might mean missing out on necessary adjustments. Always taste and adjust seasonings right before serving.

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 for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as soup expands when frozen.

Reheating Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally, until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How do I make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup healthier?

You can use low-fat milk or half-and-half instead of heavy cream and add more vegetables to boost nutrition without sacrificing flavor.

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, frozen chicken can be used, but ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking for more even results and safety.

What can I substitute for spinach in Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?

Kale or Swiss chard are great alternatives that provide similar texture and nutrition while giving a different flavor profile.

How long does Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup last in the fridge?

The soup will last about 3-4 days when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

What is the best way to serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?

Serve it with crusty bread or garlic bread on the side for dipping. A sprinkle of fresh herbs also adds a delightful touch!

Final Thoughts

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is not only rich and comforting but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can customize it with your favorite veggies or pasta shapes. Give this delicious recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!