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 is 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

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this soup is perfect for cooks of all levels.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of Italian seasoning and creamy elements creates a delightful taste that you’ll crave.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a hearty lunch or dinner option; it’s great for any occasion.
• Hearty Ingredients: Packed with chicken, veggies, and pasta, this soup is filling enough to satisfy your hunger.
• Make Ahead Friendly: This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it ideal for meal prep.

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Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather the following essential tools before you start.

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 cooking soups evenly while allowing ample space for stirring.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for mixing ingredients thoroughly without scratching your pots.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures precision in ingredient amounts for balanced flavors.

Ingredients

Chicken

• 1-1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (Diced into 1 inch pieces; I used 1 1/2 pounds.)

Vegetables

• 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)

Seasoning & Thickeners

• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 2 teaspoons Italian Seasoning (Divided)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup flour
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste (Optional See notes)

Broth & Cream

• 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

Greens

• 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, which should take about 4-5 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

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

Step 3: Add Flour and Tomato Paste

Sprinkle the flour throughout and stir well to combine. To avoid clumping, add the flour in stages. If using tomato paste, add it here and stir.

Step 4: Incorporate Chicken Broth

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

Step 5: Boil & Simmer

Bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Add in your pasta along with another teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the pot with a lid and reduce heat to low. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and tender while ensuring that the pasta is al dente.

Step 6: Finish with Cream & Spinach

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

Step 7: Taste & Adjust Seasoning

Finally, taste your soup! Adjust seasoning with salt or spices as needed before serving hot.

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup not only warms you up but also fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma! Enjoy every spoonful!

How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Serving Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is an opportunity to create a warm and inviting dining experience. This soup is versatile and can be paired with various accompaniments that enhance its rich flavors.

With Crusty Bread

• A slice of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup, adding texture and flavor.

Over Rice

• Serving the soup over a bed of fluffy rice makes for a heartier meal, soaking up all the delicious sauce.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with fresh basil or parsley to add a pop of color and freshness, elevating the dish’s presentation.

Accompanied by Salad

• A light green salad can balance the richness of the soup, providing a refreshing contrast.

Topped with Cheese

• Sprinkle some extra grated Parmesan on top before serving for added creaminess and flavor.

How to Perfect Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

To achieve the best version of Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, follow these helpful tips for an extra burst of flavor and creaminess.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the overall taste and nutrition of your soup.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to fit your personal preference.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Ensuring the chicken stays tender is key. Cook just until it’s done, as it will continue to cook during simmering.
• Add Spinach Last: Incorporate spinach in the final minutes of cooking so it retains its vibrant color and nutrients.
• Use Quality Broth: A good quality chicken broth or homemade stock will significantly boost the flavor profile of your soup.
• Experiment with Pasta Types: While small shells work great, feel free to try other pasta shapes like tortellini or orzo for variety.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup can elevate your meal. Here are some delightful options:

1. Garlic Bread

2. Its buttery garlic flavor complements the creamy soup perfectly.

3. Caesar Salad

4. A Caesar salad adds crunch and a tangy dressing that balances the richness of the soup.

5. Grilled Cheese Sandwich

6. Classic comfort food that pairs beautifully; cheese can also be melted into the soup!

7. Roasted Vegetables

8. Seasonal roasted veggies provide a healthy, colorful side dish packed with nutrients.

9. Quinoa Salad

10. A nutrient-rich quinoa salad offers a light yet filling complement to your meal.

11. Pasta Primavera

12. Lightly sautéed vegetables tossed with pasta bring freshness and vibrancy alongside your soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can help you achieve the best results when making Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using too much flour: Adding excessive flour can make the soup too thick. Start with a smaller amount and gradually add more if needed.
• Neglecting seasoning: Not seasoning at each stage can lead to bland soup. Season the chicken, vegetables, and broth well throughout the cooking process.
• Overcooking the chicken: Overcooked chicken becomes dry and tough. Cook it just until it’s no longer pink, as it will continue to cook while simmering.
• Skipping fresh ingredients: Using canned or frozen veggies instead of fresh can compromise flavor. Fresh ingredients provide better taste and texture.
• Not adjusting for pasta cooking time: Different pastas have varying cooking times. Make sure to check the package instructions so your pasta doesn’t become mushy.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Let the soup cool completely before placing it in the fridge.

Freezing Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of the container for expansion as it freezes.

Reheating Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered oven-safe dish for about 20 minutes or until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowls, stirring every minute until heated through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup that may help you:

What makes Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup special?

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup stands out due to its rich flavors from fresh ingredients and seasonings, creating a heartwarming meal that’s both comforting and satisfying.

Can I use other proteins in this soup?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey or even shrimp for a different protein option while still enjoying similar flavors.

How can I customize my Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?

Feel free to add extra vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers, or spice it up with red pepper flakes for added warmth.

Is this soup gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, replace regular flour with a gluten-free alternative, and ensure your pasta is also gluten-free.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, it often tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded together.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal on a chilly night or something to impress guests, this recipe delivers. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or adjust seasonings to suit your taste preferences. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!