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 Italian seasoning, garlic, and fresh spinach creates an irresistible taste.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, making this soup is a breeze.
• Meal Versatility: Enjoy it as a stand-alone dish or pair it with crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Hearty and Filling: Loaded with chicken and vegetables, this soup will keep you full and satisfied.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual gathering, this soup is always a hit.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, gather the following tools before starting.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven: This allows for even cooking of all ingredients while providing enough space to stir comfortably.
• Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board helps ensure safe chopping of vegetables without damaging your countertops.

Ingredients

Main 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

Broth and Cream Ingredients

• 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

Finishing Touches

• 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 Vegetables

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

Step 3: Add Flour

Sprinkle the flour throughout the mixture and stir well to combine. Add the flour gradually to prevent excess drying. If using tomato paste, add it here as well.

Step 4: Incorporate Broth

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

Step 5: Boil and Simmer

Bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Add in pasta along with another teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Season with additional salt and pepper as desired. Cover with a lid and reduce heat to low. Let simmer for about 20 minutes until chicken is cooked through and pasta is al dente. Alternatively, you can boil pasta separately and add it at the end.

Step 6: Stir in Cream

Stir in heavy cream, spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese into the pot. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 7: Adjust Seasoning

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

How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Serving Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with a few thoughtful accompaniments. This rich and hearty soup pairs well with various sides and garnishes that elevate its flavors and presentation.

With Fresh Herbs

• Basil: A sprinkle of fresh basil adds a fragrant touch that complements the creamy broth.
• Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley provides a pop of color and freshness on top of the soup.

Crusty Bread

• Sourdough Bread: Serve slices of warm sourdough bread for dipping into the soup, enhancing the meal’s comforting vibe.
• Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky flavor of garlic bread perfectly balances the richness of the soup.

Cheese Options

• Grated Parmesan: A generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top adds depth and creaminess.
• Crumbled Feta: For a tangy twist, crumbled feta can be added, providing a nice contrast to the soup’s flavors.

Salad Pairing

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine and creamy dressing complements the soup beautifully.
• Mixed Greens Salad: A light mixed greens salad dressed with vinaigrette offers a refreshing counterbalance.

How to Perfect Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Perfecting your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup ensures that each bowl is packed with flavor and comfort. Here are some tips to elevate your soup-making skills.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the overall taste and aroma of your soup, making it more vibrant.
• Control the Thickness: Adjust the amount of flour based on your desired thickness. Less flour will yield a thinner soup, while more will create a creamier texture.
• Season Gradually: Taste as you go! Adding salt and spices in stages allows for better control over the final flavor profile.
• Simmer Gently: Allowing the soup to simmer gently lets all ingredients meld together, resulting in deeper flavors.
• Experiment with Pasta: Try different pasta shapes or even whole grains for variety and texture in your soup.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Pairing side dishes with Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup enhances your meal experience. Here are some excellent options that complement this delicious dish.

1. Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots infused with garlic make for an irresistible dipping treat alongside your soup.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing bite.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables adds earthy flavors that pair nicely with the creamy soup.
4. Cheesy Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits loaded with cheese create a satisfying contrast to the smoothness of the soup.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice and cheese offer a hearty addition to your meal while keeping it balanced.
6. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful sweetness that complements savory flavors in the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, it’s easy to make some common errors that can affect the final dish. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for.

• Ignoring ingredient prep – Failing to properly dice your vegetables and chicken can lead to uneven cooking. Take the time to cut everything into uniform pieces.
• Overcooking the chicken – Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry and tough. Remove it from the heat once it’s just cooked through for tender results.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments – Not tasting and adjusting seasoning can leave your soup bland. Be sure to add salt and pepper gradually and taste along the way.
• Using old ingredients – Fresh ingredients are key for flavor. Check expiration dates on your broth, cream, and spices before using them.
• Not deglazing the pot – Skipping this step may mean missing out on rich flavors stuck at the bottom of your pot. Always scrape up those flavorful bits after browning your chicken.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let the soup cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers for expansion.

Reheating Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer soup to an oven-safe dish and cover with foil; heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely; heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between, until hot.
• Stovetop – Pour into a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup.

What makes Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup special?

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup combines tender chicken with vibrant vegetables in a rich, creamy broth that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

Can I customize my Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add different veggies or spices according to your taste. Kale or zucchini can be great additions!

How do I thicken my Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?

To thicken the soup, you can add more flour or let it simmer longer without a lid, allowing excess liquid to evaporate.

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

Yes! You can use frozen chicken breasts or thighs, but ensure they are fully cooked before serving.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients or adjust flavors to suit your taste. Perfect for cozy dinners or meal prepping, this soup is sure to impress anyone who tries it. Give it a go and enjoy every warm spoonful!