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 rich and satisfying meal promises warmth and deliciousness in every spoonful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this soup is quick enough for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of Italian seasoning, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy broth creates an irresistible flavor profile.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or pasta shapes based on what you have on hand.
• Great for Meal Prep: This soup freezes well, making it a perfect choice for batch cooking.
• Crowd Pleaser: Whether for family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking process. Having everything ready will make preparing your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup a breeze.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven: Provides ample space for cooking all ingredients evenly without splattering.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware while ensuring even mixing.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements help maintain the balance of flavors in your soup.

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: Heat the 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, sun-dried tomatoes, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are translucent, about 3–4 minutes.

Step 3: Add Flour and Tomato Paste

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

Step 4: Incorporate Chicken Broth

Gradually whisk in the chicken broth while stirring repeatedly to prevent lumps. Use your spoon to deglaze the bottom of the pan.

Step 5: Bring to a Boil

Bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Add pasta along with remaining Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Cover with a lid and reduce heat to low. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes until chicken is cooked through and pasta is al dente. Alternatively, boil pasta separately then add it at the end.

Step 6: Stir in Cream and Spinach

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

Step 7: Adjust Seasoning

Taste your soup before serving. Adjust seasoning with salt or spices as needed.

Enjoy your delicious bowl of Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is a delightful meal that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or sharing a comforting bowl with family, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: A warm, crusty baguette pairs perfectly with the creamy soup, allowing you to soak up every drop.
• Garlic Bread: Add a flavorful twist by serving garlic bread on the side for an extra kick.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Basil: Fresh basil adds a burst of flavor and color to each bowl, enhancing the Tuscan essence.
• Parsley Garnish: A sprinkle of parsley gives the soup a fresh look and taste.

With Cheese

• Extra Parmesan: Grating additional Parmesan cheese on top provides a rich, savory finish to the soup.
• Feta Crumbles: For a tangy contrast, sprinkle feta cheese over the soup just before serving.

Accompanied by Salad

• Caesar Salad: A Caesar salad complements the creamy soup with its crisp romaine and tangy dressing.
• Mixed Greens: Light mixed greens dressed in vinaigrette offer a refreshing balance to the richness of the soup.

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How to Perfect Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Creating the perfect Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup involves attention to detail. Follow these tips for an unbeatable flavor and texture.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Choose fresh chicken and high-quality broth for the best flavor. This enhances the overall taste of your soup.
• Adjust Seasonings Gradually: Taste as you go when adding salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to ensure balance without overpowering flavors.
• Thicken with Care: If you prefer a thicker consistency, gradually add more flour or let it simmer longer until it reaches your desired thickness.
• Add Spinach Last: Incorporate the spinach at the end of cooking to maintain its vibrant color and nutrients without overcooking it.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Pairing side dishes with Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement this delicious dish perfectly.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that pairs well with soup.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing contrast.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add texture and depth alongside your creamy soup.
4. Cheesy Breadsticks: Warm breadsticks loaded with cheese are perfect for dipping into your delicious soup.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad offers a nutritious addition while enhancing the meal’s overall healthiness.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers can serve as a hearty side that complements the rich flavors of the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup can be easy, but certain mistakes can affect the outcome. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your chicken and vegetables properly can lead to bland soup. Always taste and adjust as you go.
• Using low-quality chicken broth: A poor-quality broth can ruin the flavor. Opt for a good quality chicken broth for the best results.
• Overcooking the pasta: Adding pasta too early can make it mushy. Cook it just until al dente, or add it later in the cooking process.
• Neglecting to deglaze: Failing to deglaze the pot can leave stuck bits that enhance flavor. Remember to scrape up any browned bits before adding liquid.
• Not adjusting for thickness: If your soup is too thick, don’t hesitate to add more broth. Adjusting the consistency is key for a perfect creamy texture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The soup can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between each until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How can I customize Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?

You can add different vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers, or adjust the spices to suit your taste.

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just ensure it’s fully cooked before serving.

What goes well with Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?

Serve this soup with fresh bread or a simple salad for a complete meal.

Is this soup suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup stores well and makes great leftovers.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients or make it ahead of time. Give this recipe a try; you’ll find it’s perfect for cozy nights or busy weeknights!