Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Get ready to enjoy a delightful bowl of Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup! This rich and flavorful dish is perfect for intimate dinners or busy weeknights. With tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a creamy sauce, every spoonful offers comfort and satisfaction. Whether you’re cozying up on the couch or hosting friends, this soup is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: In just under an hour, you can whip up this delicious soup, making it ideal for busy nights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of Italian seasoning, garlic, and sundried tomatoes creates an irresistible taste that will keep you coming back for more.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize the soup with your favorite vegetables or pasta types based on what you have on hand.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its creamy goodness and hearty ingredients, this soup is bound to please everyone at the table.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and store leftovers for easy lunches throughout the week.

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Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the necessary tools before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven: Essential for cooking the chicken and simmering the soup evenly.
• Sharp knife: Helps in quickly chopping vegetables without hassle.
• Whisk: Perfect for ensuring there are no lumps when adding flour and broth together.

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: 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 Vegetables

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

Step 3: Add Flour

Sprinkle the flour throughout and stir well to combine. Adding flour in stages helps avoid excess drying. If using tomato paste, add it here and stir thoroughly.

Step 4: Incorporate Broth

Gradually whisk in the chicken broth while stirring continuously to ensure no lumps form. Use your spoon to deglaze any bits stuck at the bottom of the pan.

Step 5: Simmer with Pasta

Bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Then add in the pasta along with another teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Cover with a lid and reduce heat to low so it can simmer for about 20 minutes—until chicken is tender and pasta is al dente. Alternatively, boil pasta separately and add at the end.

Step 6: Finish with Cream

Open the pot again and stir in heavy cream, fresh spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese. Allow it to simmer for an additional five minutes until heated through.

Step 7: Adjust Seasoning

Taste your creamy Tuscan chicken soup one last time. Adjust seasoning with salt or spices as needed before serving hot!

Enjoy your delightful bowl of creamy goodness!

How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate this comforting soup.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• Pair your soup with crusty artisan bread for dipping. The bread soaks up the creamy broth and adds a satisfying crunch.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your soup with fresh basil or parsley. This adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness that complements the rich flavors.

Top with Extra Cheese

• Sprinkle additional grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving. It melts slightly into the soup, enhancing its creaminess.

Include a Side Salad

• Serve alongside a light green salad dressed with vinaigrette. The crispness of the salad balances the richness of the soup.

Use Bowls with Handles

• Consider using bowls with handles for easy serving and enjoyment. They add a rustic touch and keep your hands warm.

Offer Optional Toppings

• Set out toppings like croutons or extra sundried tomatoes. Guests can customize their servings for added texture and flavor.

How to Perfect Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

For an unforgettable Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, follow these simple tips that ensure each bowl is packed with flavor and comfort.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Using fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken makes a noticeable difference in flavor.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to suit your preference.
• Control Thickness: Add more chicken broth if the soup is too thick or let it simmer longer if you’d like it thicker.
• Add Spinach at the End: To preserve its vibrant color and nutrients, add spinach just before serving.
• Consider Different Proteins: Try using turkey or even diced sausage for a different twist on this classic recipe.
• Make Ahead for Flavor: Prepare the soup in advance; letting it sit overnight allows flavors to meld beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup can turn an ordinary meal into an extraordinary feast. Here are some great options that complement this delicious soup.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy broth and adds robust flavor.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad provides crunch and a tangy dressing that contrasts nicely with the rich soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Serve assorted roasted veggies as a side; their earthy flavors enhance the meal’s complexity.
4. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a refreshing side that balances the creaminess of the soup.
5. Cheesy Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits loaded with cheese make for a comforting addition that’s great for scooping up soup.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon vinaigrette offers protein and fiber while keeping it healthy.
7. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice or quinoa provide an exciting contrast in textures.
8. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad brings sweetness to your meal and cleanses the palate between bites of creamy goodness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using too much flour: Adding too much flour can make the soup overly thick. Always sprinkle it gradually and stir well.
• Overcooking the chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry. Cook until just done, then let it simmer gently with the soup.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Failing to taste and adjust seasonings can lead to bland soup. Always taste before serving and adjust as needed.
• Skipping the sauté step: Not sautéing the vegetables and chicken first can result in a lack of depth of flavor. Make sure to brown them properly for best results.
• Choosing the wrong pasta: Using pasta that takes too long to cook can affect the texture of your soup. Opt for small pasta shapes that cook quickly.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool before sealing for optimal freshness.

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 the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a pot, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is a rich and hearty dish made with chicken, vegetables, and a creamy broth that delivers comforting flavors.

Can I customize Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?

Yes! You can add your favorite vegetables or substitute different proteins like turkey or sausage to suit your taste.

How do I make this soup dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version of Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk.

What types of pasta work best in this recipe?

Small pasta shapes like shells or ditalini are ideal because they cook quickly and hold up well in the creamy broth.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with different ingredients based on your preferences. Whether for a cozy evening at home or impressing guests at dinner, this recipe is sure to deliver warmth and satisfaction with every spoonful. Give it a try and enjoy its comforting flavors!