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

• Deliciously Creamy: The combination of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese creates a rich, velvety texture that enhances every bite.
• Quick and Easy: With a total cooking time of just 50 minutes, you can have this delightful soup on the table in no time.
• Versatile Ingredients: This soup accommodates various vegetables and proteins, making it easy to customize based on what you have on hand.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with chicken, pasta, and fresh spinach, this dish ensures everyone leaves the table satisfied.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy night in, this soup is sure to impress your guests.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your essential tools. These will help streamline the process and ensure your soup turns out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for even heating and allows for ample space when adding ingredients.
• Chef’s knife: Ensures quick and precise cutting of vegetables for uniform cooking.

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 Oil and Cook 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: Sauté the Vegetables

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

Step 3: Create the Base

Sprinkle flour throughout:
Stir well to combine.
Add flour gradually to avoid excess drying. If using tomato paste, add it now.

Step 4: Add Chicken Broth

Gradually whisk in:
Chicken broth while stirring repeatedly to ensure there are no lumps.
Use your spoon to deglaze the bottom of the pan.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

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

Step 6: Incorporate Cream and Spinach

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

Step 7: Taste Test

Finally:
Taste your soup and adjust seasoning with salt or spices if needed.

Enjoy your warm bowl of Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, perfect for any occasion!

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 night in, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair your soup with warm, crusty bread. It’s perfect for dipping and adds a satisfying crunch.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your soup with freshly chopped parsley or basil. This enhances the flavors and adds a pop of color.

Accompanied by a Salad

• A light salad makes for a refreshing contrast to the rich soup. Consider a simple mixed greens salad with vinaigrette.

Served in Bread Bowls

• For a fun presentation, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. It’s both tasty and visually appealing.

With Shredded Cheese

• Top each bowl with additional grated Parmesan cheese for extra creaminess and flavor.

Drizzled with Olive Oil

• A drizzle of high-quality olive oil before serving can enrich the taste and add a luxurious touch.

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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: Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the flavor profile of your soup significantly.
• Adjust the Consistency: If the soup is too thick, gradually add more chicken broth until you achieve your desired consistency.
• Cook Pasta Separately: For firmer pasta, cook it separately and add it to the soup just before serving.
• Let It Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer helps meld the flavors together beautifully. Aim for at least 20 minutes.
• Taste as You Go: Regularly taste your soup during cooking to adjust seasonings according to your preference.
• Prepare Ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge. The flavors will deepen overnight!

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup can enhance your meal’s overall experience. Here are some delicious options:

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice that complements the creamy texture of the soup perfectly.
2. Caesar Salad: Crunchy romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing provide a refreshing balance.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition while being easy to prepare.
4. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil on skewers make for a vibrant appetizer.
5. Cheesy Risotto: Creamy risotto pairs well with the flavors of the soup and offers heartiness.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice or quinoa make an attractive side dish option.
7. Cornbread Muffins: Slightly sweet cornbread muffins can balance out the savory notes of the soup.
8. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs are great for dipping into the rich broth.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people make common errors when preparing Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Using the wrong chicken cuts: Always opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. They ensure tender pieces that cook evenly in the soup.
• Neglecting to season properly: Under-seasoning can lead to bland soup. Taste and adjust your seasoning throughout the cooking process for a flavorful result.
• Not following the cooking times: Cooking too long can make chicken tough. Keep an eye on your chicken and pasta to maintain tenderness.
• Skipping the deglazing step: Failing to deglaze can leave lumps in your soup. Make sure to scrape the bottom of the pot while adding broth for a smooth texture.
• Adding cream too early: Incorporating heavy cream too soon can cause it to curdle. Add it at the end for a rich, creamy consistency.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
• It will last for 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Freeze in portion-sized containers for easy reheating.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in a covered oven-safe dish and heat for about 20-30 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power, stirring every minute until heated through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat and stir frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken; just ensure it’s fully cooked before adding it to the soup.

What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to customize with vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.

How do I thicken Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?

To thicken, you can add more flour or use cornstarch mixed with water as a slurry.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup tastes even better after resting, so it’s perfect for meal prep.

What are some side dishes that pair well?

Serve with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

The Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is truly comforting and versatile. Its rich flavors make it perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to cozy nights in. Feel free to customize by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasonings according to your taste!