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

• Rich Flavor: The creamy sauce combined with Italian seasoning creates a delightful taste that comforts the soul.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course for lunch or dinner, perfect for any occasion.
• Easy Preparation: Simple steps make it easy to whip up, even on busy weeknights.
• Hearty Ingredients: Packed with chicken and vegetables, this soup is both filling and nutritious.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Ideal for family gatherings or potlucks, everyone will want seconds!

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Tools and Preparation

To create your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven: Perfect for evenly cooking all ingredients together while allowing for ample space.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware and ensuring even mixing.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements guarantee the best flavor balance in your soup.

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 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: Cook the 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

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

Step 4: Whisk in Chicken Broth

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

Step 5: Boil and Simmer

Bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Add pasta along with another teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Cover with a lid and reduce heat to low. 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 and Spinach

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

Step 7: Final Taste Adjustment

Taste your soup before serving; adjust seasoning as needed by adding more salt or spices if desired.

How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Serving Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is a delightful experience that can enhance any meal. This soup is not only rich in flavor but also versatile, making it easy to pair with other dishes or serve on its own. Here are some creative ways to present this comforting dish.

Pair with Fresh Bread

• A warm, crusty baguette or sourdough loaf complements the creamy texture wonderfully. Use it for dipping and savoring every bite.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Top your soup with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and additional flavor. This simple touch elevates the presentation and taste.

Serve with a Side Salad

• A light mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup. It adds freshness and makes for a well-rounded meal.

Offer Grated Cheese

• Place a bowl of grated Parmesan cheese on the table. Guests can sprinkle as much as they like onto their soup for an extra cheesy delight.

Create a Soup Bar

• Set up a small bar with toppings like croutons, extra veggies, or even hot sauce. This interactive serving style lets everyone customize their soup experience.

How to Perfect Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Achieving the perfect Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup takes just a few careful steps. Follow these tips to ensure your soup is both delicious and satisfying.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken will greatly enhance the flavor of your soup.
• Control Thickness: Adjust the flour amount based on how thick you prefer your soup. Less flour will yield a thinner consistency.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste your soup throughout cooking to make sure you achieve the desired flavor profile without overpowering it.
• Simmer Low and Slow: Allow the soup to simmer gently; this melds the flavors beautifully while keeping the chicken tender.
• Add Spinach Last: Stir in fresh spinach towards the end of cooking to maintain its vibrant color and nutrients.
• Cool Before Storing: If you have leftovers, let them cool before storing in an airtight container to keep it fresh for later enjoyment.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup can create a complete dining experience. Here are some excellent options that complement this hearty meal.

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread slathered with garlic butter is perfect for dipping into your warm soup.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy Caesar dressing offers a crunchy contrast to the smooth soup.
3. Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites filled with cheese and herbs are great finger foods that match well with any hearty dish.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide color and nutrition, enhancing your meal’s appeal.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light salad made with quinoa, vegetables, and lemon dressing adds a refreshing element that balances richness.
6. Cheesy Biscuit Waffles: Serve warm biscuit waffles that can soak up all the creamy goodness from your soup.
7. Focaccia Bread: Soft focaccia topped with herbs pairs excellently, adding both flavor and texture to your meal.
8. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned well can be an exciting addition alongside your creamy soup, offering satisfying crunchiness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Using too much flour: Adding too much flour can make the soup overly thick. Start with less and add more if needed.
• Forgetting to season properly: Insufficient seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper accordingly.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can make it tough. Monitor closely and remove when tender.
• Skipping the deglazing step: Not deglazing can cause burnt bits to affect flavor. Use your spoon to scrape the bottom before adding broth.
• Adding cream too early: Adding cream at the start can curdle it. Always add it towards the end of cooking.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
• Leave space at the top of containers to allow for expansion.

Reheating Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Oven: Heat in a covered oven-safe dish at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until hot.
• Microwave: Reheat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until heated through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot; add a splash of broth if it’s too thick.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup.

Can I use different types of chicken?

Yes, you can use chicken thighs or even rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.

What vegetables can I add to Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?

Feel free to add zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.

How do I make this soup gluten-free?

Substitute all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend to thicken.

Can I make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup in advance?

Absolutely! This soup tastes even better after sitting, so feel free to make it ahead of time.

Is there a vegetarian version of this soup?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins. Perfect for cozy dinners, this recipe promises warmth and satisfaction. Give it a try!