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 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

• Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of Italian seasoning, fresh spinach, and sundried tomatoes creates an irresistible taste that will delight your palate.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, this soup can be made in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Meal Option: Whether served as a main course or a hearty side dish, this soup fits any occasion from family dinners to gatherings with friends.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and lean protein, it’s not just tasty but also a wholesome choice for any meal.
• Freezable Leftovers: Make a big batch and store leftovers easily. Enjoy the comforting flavors of this soup even on your busiest days!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking soups as it retains heat well and allows for even cooking.
• Sharp knife: Ensures ease when chopping vegetables, helping you prepare ingredients quickly.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface while ensuring all ingredients are well combined.

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Ingredients

Get ready to gather these ingredients for the Creamy Tuscan Chicken 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 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: 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 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: Incorporate Flour

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

Step 4: Add Chicken 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. Then 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 simmer for about 20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and tender while pasta is al dente. Alternatively, boil pasta separately and then add it at the end.

Step 6: Stir in Cream & Spinach

Open the pot lid 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 soup one last time! Adjust seasoning with more salt or spices if needed before serving hot.

Enjoy your delightful bowl of Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup!

How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Serving Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is a delightful experience that can elevate your meal. This soup is hearty and rich, making it perfect for various occasions. Here are some creative ways to serve it:

With Crusty Bread

• Pair the soup with a fresh baguette or sourdough loaf. The crusty texture complements the creamy broth beautifully.

Over Rice

• Serve the soup over a bed of fluffy rice for a comforting twist. This adds extra substance and makes for a filling meal.

In a Bread Bowl

• For a fun presentation, use hollowed-out bread bowls. The bread absorbs the flavors of the soup, making each bite delicious.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with chopped parsley or basil for an aromatic touch. Fresh herbs enhance both flavor and presentation.

With a Side Salad

• A light salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup. Try adding nuts or fruit for extra texture.

How to Perfect Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Creating the perfect Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to enhance your dish:

• Choose Quality Chicken: Use fresh, high-quality chicken for better flavor and tenderness in every bite.
• Sauté Vegetables Well: Cook your vegetables until they are soft and fragrant to build depth in your soup’s flavor.
• Gradually Add Broth: Whisk in the broth slowly to avoid lumps, ensuring a smooth and creamy consistency.
• Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your soup before serving. Adjust salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning to suit your preferences.
• Use Fresh Spinach: Adding fresh spinach at the end keeps its vibrant color and nutrients intact while enhancing the soup’s appeal.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Consider these complementary options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft inside, garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy broth.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crispness and tanginess that pairs well with the rich flavors of the soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition; try carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers and tomatoes offers a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
5. Cheese Toasties: Grilled cheese sandwiches are always a hit alongside soups; use sharp cheddar for added flavor.
6. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus brings elegance to your meal while adding a nutritious element.
7. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes topped with sour cream complement the creamy nature of this dish wonderfully.
8. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances out the richness of the soup, making it an excellent choice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your chicken and vegetables will lead to bland flavors. Always season at each step for a richer taste.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can make it tough. Cook just until browned and tender to keep it juicy.
• Adding all ingredients at once: Tossing everything in together can lead to uneven cooking. Add ingredients in stages to build layers of flavor.
• Neglecting the broth quality: Using low-quality broth can dull the soup’s flavor. Opt for homemade or high-quality store-bought broth for the best results.
• Not adjusting consistency: If your soup is too thick, you might not have added enough broth. Adjust with additional broth or cream for desired consistency.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let the soup cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of the container for expansion as it freezes.

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: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in increments of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is a rich soup made with tender chicken, vegetables, and a creamy base that offers warmth and comfort.

Can I use different types of pasta in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite pasta shapes like penne or tortellini for added variety.

How can I customize Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?

You can add more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers, or swap spinach for kale based on your preference.

Is this soup suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This soup stores well and is perfect for meal prep. Just follow the storage instructions above.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is not only comforting but also highly versatile. It allows room for customization based on your tastes. Whether you want to add more veggies or change up the pasta type, this recipe will surely please everyone at your table. Give it a try and enjoy each creamy spoonful!