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.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• Chicken and Vegetables
• Soupy Components
• Final Touches
• How to Make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
• Step 1: Cook the Chicken
• Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
• Step 3: Add Flour and Tomato Paste
• Step 4: Incorporate Chicken Broth
• Step 5: Boil with Pasta
• Step 6: Final Ingredients
• Step 7: Taste & Adjust Seasoning
• How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
• Pair with Crusty Bread
• Top with Fresh Herbs
• Add a Dash of Spice
• Serve in Individual Bowls
• Enjoy with a Salad
• How to Perfect Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
• Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
• Reheating Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
• How can I make this soup lighter?
• What other vegetables can I add?
• Is this soup gluten-free?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Creamy: The soup features a rich cream base that enhances the flavors of the chicken and vegetables.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize the soup with your favorite vegetables or pasta types based on what you have on hand.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: This dish offers warmth and comfort, making it ideal for chilly evenings or family gatherings.
• Feeds a Crowd: With generous servings, this soup is great for feeding a family or having leftovers for lunch.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and make cooking 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: Ideal for even cooking and holding all the ingredients while allowing for proper simmering.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot, ensuring all ingredients are well combined.

Ingredients

Chicken and Vegetables

• 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)

Soupy Components

• 1/4 cup flour
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste (Optional See notes)
• 6-8 cups chicken broth (I recommend starting with 6 cups. See notes.)

Final Touches

• 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: Cook the Chicken

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. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook until browned on all sides, which should take about 4-5 minutes.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the onions, carrots, celery, sundried tomatoes, and minced garlic. Cook until the vegetables are translucent. This should take around 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Add Flour and Tomato Paste

Sprinkle the flour throughout the mixture in the pot. Stir well to combine it into the vegetables. If using tomato paste, add it now and mix thoroughly.

Step 4: Incorporate Chicken Broth

Gradually whisk in the chicken broth while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Be sure to deglaze the bottom of the pan using your spoon as you do this.

Step 5: Boil with Pasta

Bring everything to a rolling boil. Add in your pasta along with another teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Season again with salt and pepper to taste. Cover with a lid, reduce heat to low, and let simmer for about 20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and tender, and pasta is al dente. Alternatively, you may choose to boil pasta separately.

Step 6: Final Ingredients

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

Step 7: Taste & Adjust Seasoning

Taste your soup once more before serving. Adjust seasoning with additional salt or spices if needed.

Now you’re ready to enjoy a warm bowl of creamy goodness!

How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Serving Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup can elevate your dining experience, making it a perfect dish for cozy gatherings or family dinners. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that will enhance this rich soup.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Sourdough Bread: The tanginess of sourdough complements the creamy texture of the soup.
• Garlic Bread: Adds a flavorful twist and is perfect for dipping.
• Breadsticks: A fun option to scoop up the soup.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Basil: Fresh basil brightens up the dish with its aromatic flavor.
• Parsley: Chopped parsley adds freshness and color.
• Chives: For a mild onion flavor, sprinkle chives on top before serving.

Add a Dash of Spice

• Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes on top for an extra kick.
• Black Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper enhances the overall flavor profile.

Serve in Individual Bowls

• Personalized Portions: Serving in individual bowls makes it more inviting and allows guests to customize their toppings.

Enjoy with a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad pairs well, balancing the richness of the soup.
• Greek Salad: The freshness of cucumbers and tomatoes complements the creamy soup nicely.

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How to Perfect Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

To ensure your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: The fresher your ingredients, the better the flavor. Opt for fresh spinach and high-quality chicken broth.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Start with less salt and spices; you can always add more later. This way, you can control the final taste.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: If you’re cooking pasta separately, make sure it’s al dente to avoid mushiness when combined with the soup.
• Don’t Skip Deglazing: Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot after browning chicken; they add depth to your soup.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Complementing your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup with tasty side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the soup.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized bring out their natural sweetness and pair well.
3. Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: Soft and buttery biscuits are great for dipping into the creamy goodness of your soup.
4. Stuffed Peppers: These hearty peppers filled with grains or meats serve as a satisfying side dish.
5. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad loaded with vegetables adds texture and nutrition.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges provide a nice crunch alongside each spoonful of soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Neglecting to season your chicken and vegetables well can lead to a bland soup. Always taste as you go and adjust with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
• Overcooking the pasta: If you add the pasta too early, it may become mushy. Cook it just until al dente, or add it separately if you prefer.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Using fresh, high-quality ingredients makes a noticeable difference in flavor. Choose good chicken broth and fresh vegetables for the best results.
• Ignoring the cream addition timing: Adding cream too early can cause it to curdle. Stir it in at the end of cooking for a smooth texture.
• Not letting it simmer long enough: Rushing through the simmering process can prevent flavors from developing. Allow adequate time for all ingredients to meld together.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
• It lasts up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
• Stovetop: Simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup:

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well and add extra moisture and flavor.

How can I make this soup lighter?

You can substitute half-and-half or milk for cream for a lighter option without sacrificing too much flavor.

What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to include bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for additional flavor and nutrition.

Is this soup gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, replace regular flour with a gluten-free alternative like cornstarch or rice flour.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the seasoning. It’s perfect for cozy nights or busy weeknights when you need something satisfying and warm. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love how comforting it is!