Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Get ready to fall in love with this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup recipe! This comforting dish combines tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a creamy sauce that will surely win hearts at the dinner table. It’s perfect for cozy nights or weeknight dinners, offering warmth and deliciousness in every spoonful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of chicken, fresh spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes creates a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible.
• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can enjoy a homemade meal without spending all day in the kitchen.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for both lunch and dinner, this soup can also be paired with your favorite bread or served over rice for a complete meal.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from chicken and vitamins from vegetables like spinach and carrots, this soup nourishes as much as it satisfies.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Its creamy texture and savory taste make it a hit among family members of all ages – even picky eaters!

Tools and Preparation

Cooking up tasty Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup requires just a few essential tools to make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering the soup evenly while accommodating all ingredients without spilling.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface, ensuring even cooking.
• Whisk: Helps mix in flour smoothly to avoid lumps when adding broth.

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 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 Olive Oil

Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Add the diced chicken along with 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cook until browned on all sides, about 4-5 minutes.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot, add:
Diced onions
Diced carrots
Diced celery
Diced sundried tomatoes
Minced garlic

Cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Add Flour and Tomato Paste

Sprinkle the flour throughout the mixture and stir well to combine.
Add flour gradually to avoid excess drying.
If using tomato paste, add it now and stir thoroughly.

Step 4: Incorporate Chicken Broth

Gradually whisk in the chicken broth:
Stir repeatedly to ensure no lumps form.
Use your spoon to deglaze any bits stuck on the bottom of the pan.

Step 5: Boil and Add Pasta

Bring the mixture to a rolling boil:
Add in pasta along with remaining Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Cover with a lid, reduce heat to low, and let simmer for about 20 minutes until chicken is cooked through and pasta is al dente. You may also boil pasta separately if preferred.

Step 6: Stir in Cream and Spinach

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

Step 7: Final Seasoning Adjustments

Taste your creamy soup:
Adjust seasoning with additional salt or spices as needed before serving.

How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is a delightful meal that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors and presentation. Here are some serving suggestions to make your dining experience even more enjoyable.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Enjoy a slice of fresh, crusty bread alongside your soup for dipping. It adds an extra layer of texture and flavor.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Top your soup with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. This simple touch elevates the overall appearance and taste.

Add a Squeeze of Lemon

• A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the creamy flavors and adds a zesty contrast that complements the richness of the soup.

Serve with a Side Salad

• A crisp green salad pairs wonderfully with this hearty soup, providing a refreshing balance. Consider using mixed greens with a light vinaigrette for best results.

Offer Grated Cheese on Top

• Serve extra grated Parmesan cheese on the side. Guests can sprinkle it over their bowls for an indulgent finish.

Use Individual Bowls

• Serving the soup in individual bowls not only makes for an appealing presentation but also allows everyone to enjoy their portion at their own pace.

How to Perfect Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

To ensure your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup turns out fantastic every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Using fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken will significantly enhance the flavor of your soup.

• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning during cooking to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.

• Control Creaminess: For a thicker soup, add less chicken broth or increase the amount of flour slightly. This helps you achieve your desired consistency.

• Simmer Gently: After adding pasta, simmer gently instead of boiling vigorously. This prevents overcooking the pasta and keeps everything tender.

• Prep Ahead: Prepare ingredients ahead of time to streamline cooking. Chop veggies in advance for quick assembly when you’re ready to cook.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup pairs well with various side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread is perfect for scooping up every last drop of soup.

2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing offers a crunchy contrast to the creamy soup.

3. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a flavorful bite-sized option.

4. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms filled with cheese and herbs provide an elegant touch alongside your meal.

5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring out natural sweetness that complements the richness of the soup.

6. Pasta Salad: A chilled pasta salad enhances the meal’s diversity while keeping it light and refreshing.

7. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad mixed with veggies offers great nutrition alongside your creamy dish.

8. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses paired with crackers provides a simple yet sophisticated accompaniment to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, it’s easy to overlook certain details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the perfect soup.

• Using the wrong chicken cut – Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for tender pieces. Avoid using bone-in chicken as it can alter the cooking time and texture.
• Skipping seasoning – Don’t forget to season your chicken and vegetables adequately. A little salt and pepper can enhance the overall flavor of your soup.
• Not deglazing properly – Failing to deglaze the pot can result in a burnt taste. Make sure to scrape up any browned bits after adding broth to improve flavor.
• Adding cream too early – If you add heavy cream too soon, it may curdle. Wait until the soup is finished simmering before incorporating the cream for a smooth texture.
• Overcooking spinach – Spinach only needs a few minutes to wilt in the hot soup. Overcooking it can lead to a mushy texture and loss of vibrant color.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The soup will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months; be sure to label with the date.

Reheating Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave – Use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval until hot.
• Stovetop – Reheat on medium heat in a pot, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure it’s fully thawed before cooking for even results.

What if I don’t have sundried tomatoes?

You can substitute fresh tomatoes or omit them entirely if you prefer a milder flavor.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes! Use coconut milk or almond milk instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast for added flavor.

How can I customize my Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?

Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms based on your preference. You can also switch up the pasta type!

Final Thoughts

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is an inviting dish that warms both body and soul. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it perfect for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients or spices for a personal touch!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Saphira
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any dinner table. This easy-to-make soup features tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, creamy sauce infused with Italian flavors. Perfect for cozy evenings or quick weeknight meals, every spoonful is packed with nutrition and satisfaction. With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up a hearty meal that’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Whether paired with crusty bread or served over rice, this soup is the ultimate comfort food you’ll want to enjoy again and again.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken seasoned with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; cook until browned (about 4-5 minutes).
2. Stir in diced onions, carrots, celery, sundried tomatoes, and minced garlic; sauté until translucent (3-4 minutes).
3. Sprinkle flour over the mixture; stir well to combine.
4. Gradually whisk in chicken broth while deglazing the pot.
5. Bring to a boil; add pasta and remaining seasoning. Cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 20 minutes.
6. Stir in heavy cream, spinach, and Parmesan cheese; simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
7. Adjust seasoning as needed before serving.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (350g)
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 85mg