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

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of Italian seasoning, garlic, and creamy ingredients creates an irresistible aroma and taste.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and easy-to-find ingredients, this soup can be made by anyone, even novice cooks.
• Versatile Meal: Great for lunch or dinner, this soup fits many occasions—whether it’s a family gathering or a quiet night at home.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with chicken, vegetables, and pasta, it makes for a complete meal that will keep you satisfied.
• Nutrient-Rich: Loaded with fresh spinach and other vegetables, this soup is as good for you as it is comforting.

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Tools and Preparation

To make the Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking large batches of soup evenly without burning.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching your pot’s surface.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping vegetables quickly and safely.

Ingredients

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 start 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 one teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Season with 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 minced garlic. Cook until the vegetables are translucent, about 3–4 minutes.

Step 3: Incorporate Flour

Sprinkle the flour throughout the mixture while stirring well to combine. Add flour in stages to avoid excess drying. If you’re using tomato paste, add it now and stir thoroughly.

Step 4: Whisk in Chicken 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: Boil Pasta

Bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Add in the pasta along with another teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Season again with salt and pepper to taste. Cover with a lid and lower the heat to let it simmer for about 20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Step 6: Stir in Cream & Spinach

Once ready, open the pot and stir in the heavy cream, fresh spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese. Let it simmer for an additional five minutes.

Step 7: Taste & Adjust Seasoning

Taste your soup and adjust seasoning if needed by adding more salt or spices as desired.

Now you’re all set! Serve your warm Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup in bowls and enjoy every spoonful of this delightful dish.

How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Serving Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup can elevate your meal experience. This soup is not only hearty and comforting but also versatile enough to pair with various sides and garnishes that enhance its rich flavors.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Chopped basil or parsley can brighten up the soup, adding a fresh touch.

Top with Crispy Bacon

• Crumbled bacon adds a delightful crunch and smoky flavor that complements the creaminess of the soup.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping. It soaks up the creamy broth beautifully.

Include a Dollop of Sour Cream

• A spoonful of sour cream on top provides a tangy contrast to the richness of the soup.

Pair with A Simple Salad

• A mixed green salad dressed with vinaigrette balances the meal, offering freshness alongside the creamy soup.

How to Perfect Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Perfecting your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup involves attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure each bowl is as delicious as possible.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance flavor and texture, making your soup more vibrant.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your soup before serving. Adding salt or additional spices can make a big difference in flavor depth.

• Control the Creaminess: Adjust the amount of heavy cream based on your preference for thickness; less cream results in a lighter soup.

• Cook Pasta Separately: Cooking pasta separately prevents it from becoming too soft and mushy when reheating leftovers.

• Let it Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer develops complex flavors, making every spoonful delightful.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup can enhance your meal significantly. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: This classic side is perfect for soaking up all that delicious soup.

2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy Caesar dressing adds a refreshing crunch next to the warm soup.

3. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil offers a fresh, flavorful bite that complements the soup.

4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide a healthy and colorful addition to your meal.

5. Cheesy Focaccia: Soft focaccia bread sprinkled with cheese pairs excellently with the creamy texture of the soup.

6. Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites filled with cheese and herbs add an elegant touch to your dining experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, a few common mistakes can impact the flavor and texture. Here’s how to avoid them.

• Skipping the seasoning: Always season your chicken well with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. This enhances flavor early in the cooking process.
• Overcooking vegetables: Don’t cook your vegetables too long before adding the broth. Aim for them to be just translucent; they will soften further during simmering.
• Not whisking flour properly: If you add flour all at once, it can clump. Sprinkle it in gradually while stirring to ensure a smooth consistency in your soup.
• Using low-quality chicken broth: The broth is a key flavor component. Opt for high-quality or homemade chicken broth for a richer taste.
• Ignoring pasta cooking methods: If you prefer al dente pasta, consider cooking it separately. Adding it directly to the soup can lead to mushiness if overcooked.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

Freezing Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Freeze soup in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat the soup in an oven-safe dish until warm, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowls, covering loosely. Heat for 2-3 minutes or until hot, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What makes this soup “Creamy”?

The use of heavy whipping cream adds richness and creaminess that balances the savory flavors of the chicken and vegetables.

Can I customize my Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add more vegetables like zucchini or kale for extra nutrition or swap out chicken for turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

How do I thicken my Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?

If you prefer a thicker soup, consider adding more flour when cooking or blending part of the soup before adding cream.

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

Yes! You can use frozen chicken; just ensure it cooks thoroughly and adjust cooking times accordingly.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep for busy weeks ahead. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins—you’ll enjoy every warm spoonful!