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

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of Italian seasoning, garlic, and creamy cheese creates a mouthwatering taste that everyone will enjoy.
• Quick Preparation: With only 20 minutes of prep time, you can easily whip up this meal for your family on busy weeknights.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use whatever pasta or vegetables you have on hand to make this recipe your own.
• Comforting & Hearty: This soup is not just filling but also provides a warm hug in a bowl, making it ideal for chilly evenings.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings or family dinners; it’s sure to impress guests and loved ones alike!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to make everything run smoothly. Having the right equipment will help you prepare Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven: Essential for cooking the soup evenly and holding all the ingredients without overflow.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface while ensuring an even mix of flavors.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 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

Vegetables

• 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)

Thickening Agents

• 1/4 cup flour
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste (Optional See notes)

Broth and Pasta

• 6-8 cups chicken broth (I recommend starting with 6 cups. See notes.)
• 6 oz pasta (I used Italian small shells.)

Creamy Finish

• 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: Add Vegetables

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

Step 3: Thicken the Soup

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

Step 4: Incorporate 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: Simmer with Pasta

Bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Add in pasta along with another teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Cover with a lid and reduce heat to low. Let simmer for about 20 minutes until chicken is cooked through and pasta is al dente.

Step 6: Stir in Cream

Open the pot and mix in heavy cream, spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese. Let simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 7: Final Taste Check

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

Enjoy your delicious Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Serving Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup can elevate your dining experience, whether for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that will make this dish even more enjoyable.

Pair with Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
• Garlic Bread: Add a flavorful twist with garlic bread, enhancing the soup’s savory notes.

Garnish Creatively

• Fresh Basil: Top your soup with freshly chopped basil for a burst of color and flavor.
• Parmesan Shavings: Add a sprinkle of Parmesan shavings right before serving to enhance creaminess.

Enjoy with Salad

• Caesar Salad: The crispness of a Caesar salad complements the richness of the soup.
• Spinach Salad: A light spinach salad dressed in vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast.

Create a Complete Meal

• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Pairing the soup with a gooey grilled cheese makes for a comforting meal.
• Stuffed Peppers: Serve alongside stuffed peppers for an extra hearty option.

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How to Perfect Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

To achieve the best results with your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, consider these helpful tips.

• bold use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance flavor and nutrition, making your soup vibrant.
• bold control consistency: Adjust the amount of chicken broth based on your desired thickness; add less for a creamier texture.
• bold taste as you go: Regularly taste your soup during cooking to adjust seasonings, ensuring it’s just right.
• bold let it simmer longer: Allowing the soup to simmer can deepen the flavors, making every bite richer and more satisfying.
• bold store properly: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently to maintain creaminess.
• bold customize ingredients: Feel free to swap vegetables or add beans for variety, catering to your personal preferences.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Enhance your meal by pairing Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Crusty Breadsticks: Perfectly baked breadsticks add texture and allow for delicious dipping.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted veggies provides nutrients and balances the creaminess of the soup.
3. Quinoa Salad: This healthy salad brings protein and a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the soup.
4. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing side that contrasts nicely with rich flavors.
5. Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, and olives offers variety and complements the Tuscan flair.
6. Rice Pilaf: Lightly seasoned rice pilaf adds substance without overpowering the soup’s flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, it’s easy to overlook a few details that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly at the start can lead to bland soup. Always season your chicken with salt and pepper before cooking.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking vegetables for too long can make them mushy. Aim for a tender-crisp texture by cooking them just until they’re translucent.
• Neglecting to deglaze the pot: Failing to scrape up the browned bits from the bottom of the pot can mean missing out on flavor. Use your spoon to deglaze after adding flour for a richer taste.
• Using cold broth: Adding cold chicken broth can lower the cooking temperature and affect timing. Make sure your broth is warm or at least room temperature before adding it to the pot.
• Adding too much cream too soon: Pouring in all the cream at once can curdle it if the soup is too hot. Stir in the cream towards the end of cooking for a smooth finish.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Ensure the soup cools completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2-3 months.
• Leave some space in containers for expansion during freezing.

Reheating Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake in an oven-safe dish until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowls, stirring every minute until hot, usually about 3-5 minutes.
• Stovetop: Reheat on medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other vegetables in Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?

You can definitely customize this soup! Feel free to add vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers based on your preferences.

How do I make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup healthier?

To lighten up this soup, consider using low-fat cream or substituting some cream with additional chicken broth.

What type of pasta works best in this recipe?

Small pasta shapes like shells or ditalini are great options as they hold onto the creamy sauce well.

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken can save time. Just add it toward the end of cooking to warm it through.

Is this soup gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend and use gluten-free pasta.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Its creamy texture and rich flavor make it a perfect choice for any meal. Customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices according to your taste. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!