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

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you’ll have a delightful soup ready without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of Italian seasoning, garlic, and sundried tomatoes creates a rich, savory flavor profile that will impress everyone.
• Versatile Meal: This soup works well for lunch or dinner and is perfect for meal prep or serving guests on special occasions.
• Comforting and Satisfying: Packed with chicken and fresh vegetables, this soup is not only delicious but also filling.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the veggies or pasta to suit your tastes or dietary needs!

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the necessary tools before you start. Having everything ready will help streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for evenly cooking and simmering your soup without burning it.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accuracy in ingredient amounts for the best flavor.

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Ingredients

To make this flavorful Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, gather the following 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)

Thickening Agent

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

Broth and Pasta

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

Creamy Finish

• 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 Vegetables

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

Step 3: Add Flour

Sprinkle flour throughout the mixture and stir well to combine. Add the flour in stages to avoid excess drying. If using tomato paste, add it at this stage as well.

Step 4: Incorporate Broth

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

Step 5: Boil and Simmer

Bring everything 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 reduce heat to low. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and tender while ensuring that pasta is al dente.

Step 6: Final Touches

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

Step 7: Adjust Seasonings

Taste your soup one last time! Adjust salt or spices if needed before serving warm.

Enjoy this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup that comforts both body and soul!

How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors and make it a complete meal. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Sourdough or Baguette: Pair your soup with freshly baked sourdough or a crispy baguette for dipping.
• Garlic Bread: Serve alongside garlic bread for an extra burst of flavor that complements the creamy soup.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley: Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
• Chili Flakes: Add a sprinkle of chili flakes if you enjoy a little heat in your soup.

Accompanied by Salad

• Caesar Salad: A Caesar salad adds a crunchy texture and richness that balances the creamy soup.
• Greek Salad: Fresh veggies and feta cheese in Greek salad provide a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.

How to Perfect Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

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

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavors significantly.
• Adjust Broth Quantity: Start with less broth; you can always add more if needed to achieve your desired consistency.
• Simmer Gently: Allow the soup to simmer gently after adding cream for optimal flavor melding without curdling the cream.
• Taste as You Go: Regularly taste the soup during cooking and adjust seasonings accordingly for the best results.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Serving side dishes alongside Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup can round out your meal beautifully. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting addition.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add a healthy crunch and vibrant color to your plate.
3. Caprese Salad: This fresh salad of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil offers bright flavors that complement the soup.
4. Cheesy Biscuits: Flaky biscuits filled with cheese provide a tasty way to soak up the delicious broth.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon vinaigrette brings freshness without overpowering the main dish.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice and vegetables create a hearty side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes will elevate your dish. Here are some errors to steer clear of:

• Using Too Much Flour: Adding too much flour at once can create lumps. Instead, sprinkle it gradually while stirring to ensure a smooth texture.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can become tough. Monitor the cooking time and check for doneness to keep it tender.
• Skipping the Deglazing Step: Not deglazing the pot can lead to a less flavorful soup. Always scrape the bottom of the pot after adding broth to capture all those tasty bits.
• Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning may result in a bland soup. Always sample and tweak flavors before serving.
• Adding Spinach Too Early: Adding spinach too soon can make it wilted and unappealing. Stir it in just before serving for fresh flavor and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool before sealing to prevent condensation.

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 as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warm. Add a splash of broth if needed to reach desired consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is a hearty dish featuring tender chicken, vegetables, pasta, and a rich creamy broth infused with Italian flavors.

Can I make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. Just reheat before serving.

What other vegetables can I add to Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?

Feel free to customize by adding zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms based on your preferences.

How do I thicken my Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?

To thicken your soup, you can add more flour gradually while stirring or let it simmer uncovered for longer.

Can I use different types of pasta in this recipe?

Absolutely! Any small pasta shapes like penne or fusilli work well in this soup.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. Perfect for cozy nights or quick weeknight meals, it offers warmth and nourishment in every bowl. Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or pasta types for a personal touch!