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.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• How to Make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
• Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil
• Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
• Step 3: Add Flour and Tomato Paste
• Step 4: Incorporate Chicken Broth
• Step 5: Cook Pasta
• Step 6: Add Cream and Spinach
• Step 7: Adjust Seasoning
• How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
• Warm Bread
• Fresh Salad
• Toppings
• Cheese
• How to Perfect Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
• Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
• Reheating Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How can I make my Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup spicier?
• Can I use other types of pasta?
• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
• What if I don’t have sundried tomatoes?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of Italian seasoning, sundried tomatoes, and fresh spinach creates a rich flavor profile.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward instructions, this soup comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or pair it with crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Comfort in Every Bite: The creamy texture and hearty ingredients provide comfort on chilly evenings or when you’re feeling under the weather.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This soup stores well, allowing you to enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Preparing these ahead of time can streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for even heat distribution while cooking, perfect for soups.
• Sharp knife: Ensures safe and efficient chopping of vegetables and chicken.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface.

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 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 the onions, carrots, celery, sundried tomatoes, and minced garlic. Cook until the vegetables are translucent, about 3–4 minutes.

Step 3: Add Flour and Tomato Paste

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

Step 4: Incorporate Chicken Broth

Gradually whisk in the chicken broth while stirring repetitively. This ensures there are no lumps. Use your spoon to deglaze any bits stuck at the bottom of the pan.

Step 5: Cook Pasta

Bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Add in pasta along with another teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover with a lid, lower heat, and let simmer for about 20 minutes until chicken is cooked through and pasta is al dente. Alternatively, you can boil pasta separately and add it at the end.

Step 6: Add Cream and Spinach

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

Step 7: Adjust Seasoning

Taste your soup before serving. Adjust seasoning with salt and spices if needed.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delightful Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup!

How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Serving Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is all about enhancing its rich flavors while ensuring a delightful dining experience. Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious soup that will impress your family and friends.

Warm Bread

• Crusty Baguette: Serve sliced, warm baguette alongside the soup for dipping.
• Garlic Bread: Try garlic bread sticks to complement the creamy texture.

Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds a crunchy contrast with its crisp romaine and creamy dressing.
• Caprese Salad: The freshness of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil pairs beautifully with the soup’s richness.

Toppings

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil on top for a fresh burst of flavor.
• Croutons: Add homemade or store-bought croutons for extra crunch.

Cheese

• Extra Parmesan: Offer grated Parmesan cheese at the table for guests to add as they please.
• Feta Crumbles: Feta can provide a tangy kick that enhances the overall taste.

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How to Perfect Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

To make your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup even better, consider these helpful tips. They will help you achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures every time you prepare it.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Choosing high-quality chicken and fresh vegetables ensures great flavor.
• Season Gradually: Taste as you go to adjust seasoning perfectly without overpowering any ingredient.
• Simmer Slowly: Allowing the soup to simmer helps meld all the flavors beautifully.
• Cream Alternatives: For a lighter version, consider substituting heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to toss in extra vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for more nutrition.
• Pasta Options: Experiment with different pasta shapes or even rice for variety in texture.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Pairing side dishes with Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup can elevate your meal. Here are several fantastic options that complement its rich flavors:

1. Garlic Breadsticks – Soft, buttery breadsticks infused with garlic make a delightful dipping companion.
2. Mixed Greens Salad – A light salad with mixed greens provides a refreshing counterbalance to the creamy soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies enhance your meal and add vibrant colors to your plate.
4. Cheesy Polenta – Smooth, cheesy polenta offers a comforting base that pairs well with the soup’s creaminess.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms – Savory stuffed mushrooms can add an elegant touch and serve as a hearty appetizer.
6. Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread muffins bring a lovely sweetness that complements the savory flavors of the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a delicious Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup can be a breeze, but avoiding common pitfalls is essential for the best results.

• Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality ingredients can affect the overall flavor. Always choose fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken for better taste.
• Overcooking the chicken: This can lead to tough meat. Cook the chicken just until it’s no longer pink for a tender result.
• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning properly can result in bland soup. Taste as you go and adjust with salt, pepper, or herbs to enhance flavors.
• Not using enough broth: Insufficient broth makes the soup too thick. Start with 6 cups and add more if needed for desired consistency.
• Adding all ingredients at once: Layering ingredients allows for better flavor development. Add vegetables in stages rather than all at once for improved taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Freeze in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place soup in a baking dish, cover, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowl, covered. Heat on high in 1-minute intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How can I make my Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup spicier?

You can add red pepper flakes or fresh chili peppers during cooking to increase the spice level. Adjust according to your taste preference.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! Feel free to substitute with any small pasta like elbows or ditalini. Just ensure it cooks well in the broth.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it a perfect choice for meal prep.

What if I don’t have sundried tomatoes?

You can substitute with diced fresh tomatoes or omit them altogether if you prefer a simpler flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or adjusting spices to suit your palate. This recipe promises warmth and satisfaction, making it ideal for cozy dinners or meal prep. Give it a try—you won’t regret it!