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

• Rich Flavor: The combination of creamy sauce and Italian seasoning creates a deliciously comforting taste.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps, you can have this delightful soup ready in under an hour.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out vegetables or pasta based on what you have on hand.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores well, making it ideal for lunches or busy weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: It’s a crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will enjoy!

Tools and Preparation

Preparing your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is easier with the right tools. Here’s what you’ll need:

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: This allows for even cooking and enough space for all ingredients.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 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)

For Thickening the Soup

• 1/4 cup flour
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste (Optional See notes)

For the Broth and Creaminess

• 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. 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: Add Vegetables

In the same pot, add the onions, carrots, celery, sundried tomatoes, and garlic. Cook until they become translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Thicken the Soup Base

Sprinkle the flour evenly throughout the mixture and stir well to combine. Add flour in stages to avoid clumping. If using tomato paste, add it now and stir thoroughly.

Step 4: Incorporate Chicken Broth

Gradually whisk in the chicken broth while stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Be sure to deglaze the bottom of the pan using your spoon.

Step 5: Cook Pasta

Bring the mixture to a rolling boil before adding in the pasta along with another teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Cover with a lid and lower heat to let it simmer for about 20 minutes until chicken is cooked through and pasta is al dente. Alternatively, boil pasta separately and add it later.

Step 6: Add Cream and Spinach

Open the pot and stir in heavy cream, spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 7: Final Seasoning

Taste your soup! Adjust seasoning with salt and spices as needed before serving hot.

Now you’re all set to enjoy a warm bowl of this creamy delight!

How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your experience.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• A warm loaf of crusty bread pairs beautifully with the soup, perfect for dipping and soaking up the creamy goodness.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your soup with fresh basil or parsley to add a burst of color and freshness to each bowl.

Add a Side Salad

• A light salad with mixed greens and a vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the soup, balancing out your meal.

Sprinkle Extra Cheese

• For cheese lovers, adding more grated Parmesan on top provides an extra layer of flavor and creaminess.

Serve in Individual Bowls

• Presenting the soup in individual bowls adds a personal touch that makes each guest feel special.

Include Lemon Wedges

• A squeeze of lemon over the soup brightens up the flavors and adds a refreshing zing.

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How to Perfect Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

To achieve a flawless Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, consider these helpful tips for an extraordinary meal every time.

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables, quality chicken, and authentic Italian seasoning enhance the overall taste.
• Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick, gradually add more chicken broth until you reach your desired texture.
• Don’t Rush Cooking: Allow the chicken to brown properly; this step builds essential flavors in your soup.
• Taste As You Go: Regularly tasting during cooking helps you adjust seasoning for a perfectly balanced dish.
• Experiment with Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
• Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Make it ahead of time for busy weeknights.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup can enhance your dining experience. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup, making each bite more enjoyable.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and zest that complements the rich flavors of the soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables provide nutritious balance and vibrant colors on your plate.
4. Cheesy Biscuits: Soft cheesy biscuits offer comfort and pair well with any creamy soup.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad brings protein and texture, creating a satisfying side without overwhelming flavors.
6. Pasta Salad: Cold pasta salad can refresh your palate while still harmonizing with the warmth of the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, it’s easy to make a few missteps. Here are some common mistakes and how to steer clear of them.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your chicken and vegetables adequately can result in bland soup. Always taste and adjust seasonings as you go.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it tough. Aim for a golden brown on the outside while keeping it tender inside.
• Using too much flour: Adding too much flour can thicken your soup excessively. Gradually sprinkle in flour, stirring well to avoid clumps.
• Not deglazing the pot: Forgetting to deglaze can lead to burnt flavors. Use your spoon to scrape up any bits stuck at the bottom before adding broth.
• Skipping fresh ingredients: Using dried herbs instead of fresh can diminish flavor. Fresh spinach and tomatoes elevate the dish significantly.
• Ignoring texture: Aiming for a creamy consistency is essential. Incorporate cream gradually to achieve that perfect creaminess without curdling.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Freeze it in airtight freezer bags or containers.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warm throughout, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between each interval.
• Stovetop: Place in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes! You can substitute turkey or even sausage for a different flavor profile.

How do I make this soup gluten-free?

Use gluten-free flour as a thickener instead of regular flour.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add zucchini, bell peppers, or any favorite veggies for added nutrition.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or milk, but keep in mind that it may alter the creaminess slightly.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is not just a meal; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it perfect for cozy nights or quick weeknight dinners. You can easily customize this soup by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spices to suit your palate. Give it a try; you’ll love how simple yet satisfying this recipe is!