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

• Comforting Flavor: The blend of creamy broth with Italian seasoning creates a warm, inviting taste.
• Quick Preparation: With a total time of just 50 minutes, you can whip up this delicious soup on busy weeknights.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a hearty lunch or dinner; it’s perfect for any occasion.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and lean chicken, this soup is both healthy and satisfying.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the rich flavors and creamy texture.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools.

Essential Kitchen Tools

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

Why These Tools Matter

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven: Essential for cooking the chicken and simmering the soup without splatter.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure accurate measurements for balanced flavors in your dish.

Ingredients

Here are all the ingredients you’ll need to prepare the Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup:

• 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 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 Vegetables

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

Step 3: Add Flour & Tomato Paste

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

Step 4: Whisk in 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 pot.

Step 5: Add Pasta & Simmer

Bring everything to a rolling boil before adding in the pasta along with another teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Adjust salt and pepper to taste. Cover the pot with a lid, reduce heat to low, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes until chicken is cooked through and pasta is al dente. Alternatively, you can boil pasta separately and add it later.

Step 6: Stir in Cream & Spinach

Open the pot once more and stir in heavy cream, fresh spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese. Let the soup simmer for an additional five minutes.

Step 7: Adjust Seasoning

Taste your soup one last time! Adjust seasoning with additional salt or spices if needed before serving. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup!

How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Serving Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with a few thoughtful additions. Here are some creative ways to elevate your soup presentation and flavor.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley: Add a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley for a burst of flavor and color.
• Chili Flakes: If you enjoy a bit of heat, top your soup with chili flakes for an extra kick.

Accompany with Crusty Bread

• French Baguette: Serve slices of warm French baguette to soak up the delicious broth.
• Garlic Bread: For a flavorful twist, pair the soup with garlic bread for a satisfying crunch.

Pair with Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad complements the creamy texture of the soup beautifully.
• Caprese Salad: The freshness of tomatoes and mozzarella in a Caprese salad balances the richness of the soup.

Offer Cheese Toppings

• Parmesan Shavings: Add freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra savory layer.
• Feta Crumbles: For a tangy contrast, sprinkle feta cheese over the soup before serving.

How to Perfect Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

To make your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup truly exceptional, consider these essential tips for perfecting your dish.

• Bold Seasoning: Ensure you season well throughout the cooking process, adjusting as needed for depth of flavor.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables and herbs to enhance the taste and nutritional value.
• Proper Cooking Time: Simmer until the chicken is tender; this will make it juicy and flavorful.
• Cream Quality: Choose high-quality heavy cream for a rich and velvety texture in your soup.
• Pasta Choice: Small pasta shapes like shells or ditalini work best as they hold onto the broth perfectly.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup can elevate your meal even further. Here are some great options that complement its flavors well.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables adds color and nutrition to your table.
3. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with grains or veggies provide a hearty accompaniment.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with fresh veggies offers a refreshing contrast to the soup’s richness.
5. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil makes for a delightful appetizer.
6. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw balances out the creaminess of the soup with its crisp texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many home cooks make simple errors that can affect the flavor and texture of Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Not adding enough salt and pepper can lead to a bland soup. Always taste your soup as it cooks and adjust the seasoning accordingly.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it tough. Cook just until it’s browned and no longer pink in the center to keep it tender.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Poor-quality broth or vegetables can diminish the overall flavor. Opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results.
• Neglecting to deglaze: Failing to scrape up the browned bits from the bottom of the pot means missing out on rich flavors. Always deglaze your pot after browning the chicken.
• Adding cream too early: Adding heavy cream too soon can cause it to curdle. Wait until the end of cooking to stir in the cream for a smooth consistency.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow soup to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers as soup expands when frozen.

Reheating Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish, covered, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short increments, stirring between each until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is a rich and flavorful dish made with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy broth inspired by Tuscan cuisine.

Can I use other types of meat in this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey or lamb if you prefer different flavors or textures.

How can I customize Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?

Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or even swap out pasta for rice or quinoa for a different twist.

Is this soup suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This soup stores well in both the refrigerator and freezer, making it perfect for meal prep throughout the week.

Conclusion

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is not only comforting but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy night at home or preparing a meal for friends, this recipe offers endless customization options. Don’t hesitate to try it out; you’ll surely fall in love with its rich flavors!

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