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 sauce that’s sure to win hearts at the dinner table. Perfect for cozy nights or weeknight dinners, this rich and satisfying meal promises warmth and deliciousness in every spoonful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With a total time of just 50 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of Italian seasoning, sundried tomatoes, and creamy elements creates an irresistible flavor that will impress everyone.
• Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with vegetables like spinach, carrots, and celery, this soup is not only tasty but also healthy.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences.
• Family-Friendly: This soup is a hit with kids and adults alike, making it the perfect meal for the whole family.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools at hand is essential.

Essential Kitchen Tools

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

Why These Tools Matter

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for even cooking and preventing spills while stirring.
• Sharp knife: Ensures safe and efficient chopping of ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy in measurements guarantees the best flavors in your dish.

Ingredients

Get ready to gather these fresh ingredients for your 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 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: Add Vegetables

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

Step 3: Incorporate Flour

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

Step 4: Whisk In Broth

Gradually whisk in the chicken broth while stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Use your spoon to deglaze any bits stuck at the bottom of the pot.

Step 5: Boil and Add Pasta

Bring the mixture to a rolling boil. 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. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and tender while ensuring pasta is al dente. Alternatively, cook pasta separately and add it later.

Step 6: Stir In Cream & Spinach

Open the pot and stir in the heavy cream, fresh spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese. Allow it to simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 7: Adjust Seasoning

Taste your soup and adjust seasoning with more salt or spices as needed before serving warm.

How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience that warms the heart and soul. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Pair with Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: A fresh baguette is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup, soaking up all its flavors.
• Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky goodness complements the richness of the soup beautifully.

Add a Salad

• Caesar Salad: This classic salad with romaine lettuce and Caesar dressing adds a crisp contrast to the creamy texture of the soup.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil provide a refreshing, light side that balances the richness.

Top with Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil on top for added freshness and color.
• Grated Cheese: A little extra Parmesan cheese can enhance the flavor profile and add a lovely finish.

How to Perfect Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

To make your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup truly unforgettable, consider these simple tips.

• Bold seasoning: Always taste as you go and adjust seasoning levels accordingly for a more vibrant flavor.
• Quality broth: Use homemade or high-quality chicken broth for deeper flavor in your soup.
• Fresh ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables and herbs whenever possible to enhance taste and nutrition.
• Cook pasta separately: If you prefer firmer pasta, cook it al dente separately and stir it into the soup just before serving.
• Add spinach last: Stir in fresh spinach at the end of cooking to keep it vibrant and nutritious without wilting too much.
• Reheat gently: When reheating leftovers, do so slowly over low heat to avoid curdling the cream.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Complement your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup with these delicious side dishes that elevate your meal further.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting pairing with this flavorful soup.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add a sweet and savory element that enhances the overall meal experience.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon vinaigrette provides a healthy option that balances out the creaminess of the soup.
4. Cheesy Biscuit: Flaky biscuits loaded with cheese are perfect for sopping up every bit of that rich broth.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice, veggies, and spices offer a hearty side that complements the dish well.
6. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: Classic grilled cheese sandwiches bring nostalgia while being perfect for dipping into soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Using cold chicken: Always use chicken at room temperature. Cold chicken can lower the cooking temperature and lead to uneven cooking.
• Skipping the seasoning: Don’t forget to season your soup adequately. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process for maximum flavor.
• Adding too much flour at once: Gradually add flour to avoid clumping. This helps in achieving a smooth, creamy texture without lumps.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Cook vegetables just until tender. Overcooked veggies can lose their texture and flavor, making the soup less appealing.
• Not stirring enough: Stir frequently when adding broth. This ensures that everything is well combined and prevents sticking or burning at the bottom of the pot.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow soup to cool completely before placing it in the fridge.
• Label containers with dates for easy tracking.

Freezing Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Freeze in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 2-3 months.
• Leave space at the top of containers for expansion during freezing.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container, heat on medium power in 1-minute increments, stirring between each until heated through.
• Stovetop: Heat on low in a pot, stirring frequently until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I substitute if I don’t have sundried tomatoes?

You can use fresh tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a different but delicious flavor profile.

How can I make this soup healthier?

Consider using low-fat cream or swapping some of the cream with additional broth for a lighter version while maintaining creaminess.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken; just be sure to cook it fully until it reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

How do I customize Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini or include herbs such as basil or parsley for extra flavor.

Is Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free alternative like cornstarch or almond flour.

Conclusion

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is a delightful dish perfect for any occasion. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it comforting and satisfying. Customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting spices to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!

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