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

• Rich Flavor: The combination of chicken, vegetables, and cream creates a deeply satisfying taste.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, you can make this soup in under an hour.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use whatever vegetables you have on hand to customize your soup.
• Feeding a Crowd: This recipe yields 10 cups, making it perfect for family gatherings or meal prep.
• Comforting Meal: Ideal for chilly nights, this soup warms you from the inside out.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Using the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven: These provide even heat distribution for cooking soups thoroughly.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your pots while deglazing.
• Whisk: Useful for incorporating ingredients smoothly, especially when adding flour to avoid lumps.

Ingredients

Get ready to gather these ingredients for your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup:

For the Soup Base

• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (diced into 1-inch pieces)
• 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)

For Thickening and Creaminess

• 1/4 cup flour
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste (optional)
• 6-8 cups chicken broth (start with 6 cups)
• 6 oz pasta (small shells recommended)
• 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 Olive Oil

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

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot, add the onions, carrots, celery, sundried tomatoes, and minced garlic. Cook until they become translucent, taking around 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Add Flour

Sprinkle flour throughout the mixture in the pot. Stir well to combine everything. Be sure to add flour gradually to prevent excess drying. If you’re using tomato paste, add it at this stage as well.

Step 4: Whisk in Chicken Broth

Gradually whisk in the chicken broth while stirring continuously. This step is crucial for ensuring there are no lumps in your soup. Use your spoon to deglaze any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot.

Step 5: Cook Pasta

Bring everything to a rolling boil then add in the pasta along with another teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper again if needed. 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 keeping the pasta al dente. Alternatively, you can cook the pasta separately then add it later.

Step 6: Add Cream and Spinach

Once cooked, open the pot and stir in heavy cream along with fresh spinach and grated Parmesan cheese. Allow it all to simmer together for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 7: Final Touches

Taste your soup and adjust seasoning as necessary with salt or spices before serving hot!

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

How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Serving Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is an art that enhances the experience of this delicious dish. Here are some creative ways to serve it that will make your meal even more enjoyable.

In a Bread Bowl

• A warm, crusty bread bowl adds a rustic touch to your soup. Simply hollow out a round loaf, fill it with the soup, and enjoy every bite!

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each bowl with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and added flavor that complements the creamy soup.

Topped with Croutons

• Add a crunchy texture by sprinkling homemade or store-bought croutons on top just before serving. They provide a delightful contrast to the creaminess of the soup.

Paired with Salad

• Serve your soup alongside a mixed green salad. The freshness of the greens balances out the rich flavors of the soup perfectly.

With Grated Cheese

• Offer extra grated Parmesan cheese at the table for guests to sprinkle on top according to their taste preference. It enhances the cheesy goodness of the soup.

Enjoying with Family

• Share this comforting dish with loved ones around the dinner table. The warmth and heartiness of Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup make it perfect for cozy gatherings.

Save this!

How to Perfect Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

To elevate your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, consider these helpful tips for achieving the best results.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance flavor and nutrition, making your soup more vibrant and delicious.

• Adjust thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, allow it to simmer longer or add more flour gradually until you reach your desired consistency.

• Add spices: Experiment with additional spices like red pepper flakes or Italian herbs to customize the flavor profile according to your taste.

• Let it sit: Allowing your soup to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps meld flavors together, resulting in a richer taste experience.

• Use homemade broth: For a deeper flavor, use homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought. This small change can make all the difference in taste.

• Store properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently to maintain creaminess without curdling.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup enhances its flavors and completes your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: A classic side, garlic bread provides a crunchy texture that complements the creamy soup wonderfully.

2. Caesar Salad: This crisp salad features romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing, adding freshness and crunch.

3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables can add depth and nutrition, creating a well-rounded meal when served alongside your soup.

4. Caprese Skewers: These skewers combine mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze for a refreshing bite.

5. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms offer a hearty side option packed with cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs for extra flavor.

6. Cheesy Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits loaded with cheese provide comfort and pair beautifully with any creamy dish like this soup.

7. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds brightness and crunch that contrasts nicely against the richness of creamy soups.

8. Quinoa Salad: This nutritious salad brings texture and protein while being light enough not to overshadow the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, it’s easy to make a few missteps that could affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Using the wrong chicken: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for the best texture. Avoid using chicken with skin or bones, as it may alter the soup’s creaminess.
• Overcooking vegetables: Sauté vegetables just until they’re tender. Overcooking can lead to mushy veggies that lose their flavor and texture.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Always taste your soup before serving. You might need to add more salt or spices to enhance the flavor.
• Adding cream too early: Incorporate the heavy cream at the end of cooking. Adding it too soon can cause it to curdle, affecting the soup’s creamy consistency.
• Neglecting to deglaze properly: Scrape the bottom of the pot after adding broth. This helps lift flavorful bits stuck to the pot, enhancing your soup’s taste.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days.

Freezing Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags and label with date.
• It will last in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Microwave: Pour into a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely. Heat on high in 1-minute increments, stirring between each until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat. Stir frequently and heat until simmering, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup thicker?

To thicken your soup, you can add more flour or let it simmer longer without a lid. Alternatively, blend a portion of the soup and mix it back in.

Can I use different vegetables in my Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms according to your preference.

How long does it take to make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?

The total time is approximately 50 minutes, including 20 minutes for prep and 30 minutes for cooking.

Can I use frozen chicken in my Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?

Using frozen chicken is fine; just ensure it’s fully cooked through by extending the cooking time slightly.

What can I serve with Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?

This delicious soup pairs well with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even some garlic knots for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is not only comforting but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spices. Try this recipe today and discover why it’s destined to become a family favorite!