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

• Quick Preparation: With a total time of just 50 minutes, you can whip up this delicious soup on busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of herbs and fresh ingredients creates an irresistible taste that will have everyone asking for seconds.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize the soup by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice levels to suit your taste.
• Comfort Food Delight: This creamy soup is perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a little extra comfort in your life.
• Family-Friendly Meal: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this delicious blend of flavors, making it ideal for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather the essential tools. Having everything ready makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven: This tool allows for even heating and ample space to cook all ingredients thoroughly.
• Sharp knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring uniform pieces that cook evenly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors in your soup.

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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: Sauté the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
1. Add the chicken pieces along with 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
2. Cook until browned on all sides, about 4–5 minutes.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

In the same pot:
1. Add the diced onions, carrots, celery, sundried tomatoes, and minced garlic.
2. Cook until the vegetables are translucent, about 3–4 minutes.

Step 3: Thicken the Base

Sprinkle flour throughout the mixture:
1. Stir well to combine.
2. Add flour gradually to avoid excess drying. If using tomato paste, add it now.

Step 4: Combine Broth and Pasta

Gradually whisk in the chicken broth:
1. Stir repeatedly to ensure there are no lumps.
2. Bring this mixture to a rolling boil.
3. Add pasta along with remaining Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. Cover with a lid and reduce heat to low for about 20 minutes until chicken is tender and pasta is al dente.

Step 5: Final Touches

Open the pot:
1. Stir in heavy cream, fresh spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese.
2. Let it simmer for an additional five minutes.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Now enjoy your delightful Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Serving Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup can enhance the dining experience, making it even more delightful. Here are some creative ways to present and enjoy this comforting dish.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• A warm, crusty loaf of bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup. Choose a rustic sourdough or a French baguette for the best results.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each bowl with fresh basil or parsley. This adds a pop of color and enhances the flavor profile of the dish.

Serve with a Side Salad

• A light side salad can complement the richness of the soup. Consider a simple mixed green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.

Offer Grated Cheese

• Provide a small bowl of grated Parmesan cheese on the side. Guests can sprinkle it over their soup for an extra cheesy touch.

Include Lemon Wedges

• Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the soup before eating. This will brighten up the flavors and cut through the creaminess.

How to Perfect Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

To truly master Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, consider these helpful tips that will elevate your cooking game.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables and quality chicken for deeper flavor and better texture in your soup.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning based on your preference for the most balanced flavor.
• Cook Pasta Separately: For better pasta texture, cook it separately and add it at the end. This prevents it from becoming mushy in the broth.
• Simmer Gently: After adding cream and spinach, simmer gently to avoid curdling the cream while still allowing flavors to meld.
• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container. The flavors will develop even more overnight.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Pairing your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup with sides can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread pairs perfectly, offering a crunchy contrast to the creamy soup.
2. Caesar Salad: The classic Caesar salad provides a crisp texture and complements the flavors of Tuscan chicken beautifully.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add depth and color to your meal while keeping it healthy.
4. Stuffed Peppers: These flavorful bites can serve as a filling accompaniment that complements your creamy dish.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad adds protein and fiber while being refreshing next to rich soup.
6. Cheesy Biscuits: Buttery cheesy biscuits are perfect for soaking up every delicious drop of soup.
7. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and brightness that balances out the creamy texture of the soup.
8. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is an excellent choice; its subtle sweetness contrasts nicely with savory flavors in the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your dish significantly. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the chicken – Cooking the chicken for too long can make it tough. Aim for a golden brown on the outside and ensure it remains juicy by checking doneness early.
• Skipping the seasoning – Not seasoning at each step can lead to bland soup. Add salt and pepper throughout the cooking process for layered flavor.
• Ignoring the thickness – Adding too much flour at once can create lumps. Gradually sprinkle flour while stirring to achieve a smooth texture in your soup.
• Using low-quality broth – The base flavor comes from your broth. Choose a high-quality chicken broth or homemade version for the best taste.
• Neglecting to adjust flavors – Tasting and adjusting flavors at the end is crucial. Always sample your soup before serving and tweak with salt or spices as needed.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• The soup lasts up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Freeze in labeled freezer-safe containers.
• Best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave – Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring frequently, until heated evenly.
• Stovetop – Heat over medium-low heat, stirring often, until hot; add a splash of broth if it thickens too much.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup:

Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Yes! Turkey works well as a substitute and provides a similar flavor profile.

How do I make this soup dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, replace heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative.

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

Feel free to add vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or kale for extra nutrients and flavor.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup can be made in advance and tastes even better as the flavors meld together overnight.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the seasonings. This comforting dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings. Try making it today!