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 quick weeknight dinners, this rich and satisfying meal 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 delightful soup even on busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of Italian seasoning, sundried tomatoes, and cream creates a soup bursting with flavor.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or using different pasta shapes.
• Family-Friendly: This dish is perfect for all ages—kids love the creamy texture while adults appreciate its depth of flavor.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a large batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week, making it an ideal option for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the essential tools that will make your experience smooth and enjoyable.

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: Ensures even cooking and sufficient space for all ingredients while preventing spills.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pots while allowing for easy deglazing.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Guarantees accurate ingredient measurements for consistent results every time.

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Ingredients

To prepare this delicious Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, gather the following 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 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 Vegetables

In the same pot, add the onions, carrots, celery, sundried tomatoes, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Incorporate Flour

Sprinkle the flour throughout the mixture and stir well to combine. Add flour in stages to avoid excess drying. If using tomato paste, add it here and stir until well mixed.

Step 4: Add 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: Cook Pasta

Bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Add in the pasta along with an additional 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 chicken is cooked through and pasta is al dente. Alternatively, boil pasta separately and add it at the end.

Step 6: Stir in Cream & 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: Final Taste Adjustment

Taste your soup before serving. Adjust seasoning with additional salt or spices if necessary.

Enjoy your homemade Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Serving Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup can elevate your dining experience. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this comforting dish.

Make It a Meal

• With Crusty Bread: Serve hot soup alongside a slice of crusty bread for dipping. The bread soaks up the creamy goodness.
• Garnished with Fresh Herbs: Top each bowl with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor.

Add a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad pairs beautifully, balancing the richness of the soup.
• Greek Salad: A refreshing Greek salad with feta cheese and olives complements the flavors perfectly.

Pair with a Beverage

• Herbal Tea: A warm herbal tea can enhance the comforting vibe of the meal.
• Sparkling Water: Serve sparkling water with lemon to refresh your palate between bites.

How to Perfect Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Perfecting your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup requires attention to detail for the best flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Choose fresh vegetables and herbs for vibrant flavors that enhance the soup’s depth.
• Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add more chicken broth gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
• Season Gradually: Taste as you cook and adjust salt and spices incrementally to avoid over-seasoning.
• Let it Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer helps all the flavors meld beautifully, creating a harmonious dish.
• Add Cheese Last: Stir in cheese towards the end to keep its creamy texture without clumping.
• Store Properly: If you’re saving leftovers, cool it first before refrigerating in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Complement your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup with these delicious side dishes that enhance your meal experience.

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread brushed with garlic butter is perfect for dipping into the soup.
2. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a light, flavorful bite.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition, making your meal more balanced.
4. Cheesy Rice Casserole: A creamy rice dish complements the soup while adding heartiness to your meal.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with quinoa or rice fill you up without overpowering the soup’s flavor.
6. Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.
7. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins serve as a delightful sweet contrast, perfect for soaking up every drop of soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes will ensure that your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup turns out delicious every time.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your chicken and vegetables can lead to bland soup. Always season at each step for maximum flavor.
• Overcooking the chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry. Cook just until browned and tender; it will continue to cook in the broth.
• Not stirring enough: Failing to stir the soup regularly can lead to sticking and uneven cooking. Make sure to stir continuously when adding the broth.
• Ignoring pasta cooking methods: Adding pasta too early can make it mushy. Cook it al dente separately or add it at the right time during simmering.
• Forgetting the cream last: Adding cream too soon can cause curdling. Stir it in towards the end for a smooth and creamy texture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

• To freeze, let the soup cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What type of chicken is best for this recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work well. They provide tenderness and flavor without excess fat.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative for a delicious dairy-free version.

How do I customize my Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?

You can add different vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra flavor. Adjust seasonings based on your preferences too!

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen spinach works well; just make sure to thaw and drain any excess water before adding it to the soup.

How long does this soup last in the fridge?

This soup will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator if stored properly in an airtight container.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasonings. Perfect for cozy dinners or quick weeknight meals, we encourage you to give this recipe a try!