Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Get ready to fall in love with this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup! If you’re looking for a dish that combines comfort and flavor, you’ve found it. This soup is not only hearty and satisfying but also incredibly easy to make. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick yet delicious or for cozy family gatherings where everyone will gather around the table.

What I adore about this recipe is how it transforms simple ingredients into a warm hug in a bowl. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and fresh spinach come together beautifully, making each spoonful delightful. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just yourself, this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup will surely win hearts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: This soup comes together in just about 50 minutes, making it perfect for a quick dinner.
• Family-friendly: With its rich flavors and creamy texture, even picky eaters will love it!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can easily prepare this ahead of time and reheat, saving you time during busy days.
• Comforting flavors: The blend of Italian seasonings and fresh veggies creates a comforting taste that warms the soul.
• Customizable: You can swap ingredients based on what you have on hand without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store. Let’s gather what we need for our Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup!

Main Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1-1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (diced into 1 inch pieces)
• 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)
• 6-8 cups chicken broth (start with 6 cups)
• 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

Variations

One of the fantastic things about this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is its flexibility! Feel free to mix it up based on your preferences or what you have in your pantry.

• Swap the protein: You can use turkey or even shredded rotisserie chicken for added convenience.
• Go vegetarian: Replace the chicken with chickpeas or lentils for a hearty vegetarian option.
• Add different veggies: Try adding bell peppers, zucchini, or kale for extra nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: For those who enjoy a little heat, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños!

How to Make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add the chicken along with one teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned all over—about 4-5 minutes. Browning the chicken adds depth of flavor that enhances the overall taste of the soup.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, toss in the onions, carrots, celery, sundried tomatoes, and garlic. Sauté until everything is translucent—approximately 3-4 minutes. This step really brings out the sweetness from the vegetables and creates a lovely aromatic base for your soup.

Step 3: Thicken It Up

Sprinkle flour throughout the veggie mixture and stir well to combine. Adding flour here helps thicken your soup without creating lumps later on. If you’re using tomato paste (which adds great flavor), stir it in now!

Step 4: Create Your Broth

Gradually whisk in chicken broth while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. This step ensures a smooth broth as you deglaze any bits stuck at the bottom of your pot—those bits are packed with flavor!

Step 5: Add Pasta & Simmer

Bring everything to a rolling boil then add pasta along with another teaspoon of Italian seasoning, plus more salt and pepper as needed. Cover the pot and reduce heat to low so it simmers for about 20 minutes until everything is cooked through. If you prefer al dente pasta, consider cooking it separately and adding it later.

Step 6: Stir in Cream & Spinach

After simmering, open up the pot again and mix in heavy cream, fresh spinach, and grated cheese. Let everything simmer together for another five minutes until warmed through. This final touch gives your soup that luscious creamy texture that makes it so irresistible!

Step 7: Adjust Seasoning

Give your soup a taste before serving! Adjust seasoning as needed with more salt or spices—it should be just right before ladling into bowls.

Now you’re ready to enjoy this delicious Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup! Serve hot with some crusty bread or crackers on the side—you’ll want every last drop!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Making this soup is a delightful experience, and with a few pro tips, you can elevate your game even further!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavors in your soup, making it more vibrant and tasty. Look for seasonal produce to get the best quality.
• Customize your pasta: While small shells are great, feel free to experiment with different types of pasta. Options like ditalini or orzo can add unique textures that make the soup even more enjoyable.
• Adjust the creaminess: If you prefer a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute it with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative. This allows you to tailor the richness to your liking.
• Add greens at the end: Adding spinach towards the end of cooking retains its bright color and nutrients. This not only enhances the presentation but ensures you’re getting all the health benefits too!
• Make it ahead of time: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Prepare it in advance for a quick meal during busy weeknights!

How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Serving this creamy delight is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary flavors. Here are some ideas to make your meal even more special!

Garnishes

• Fresh basil or parsley: Chopped fresh herbs sprinkled on top add a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Extra Parmesan cheese: A light dusting of freshly grated Parmesan not only looks beautiful but also enhances the cheesy flavor in each bowl.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into your creamy soup. The rich butter and garlic flavors complement the soup beautifully.
• Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a crisp contrast to the creamy soup.
• Roasted Vegetables: Sweet roasted veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots bring natural sweetness and add depth to your meal.
• Quinoa or Rice: Serving some fluffy quinoa or rice on the side can help soak up any leftover broth while adding an extra layer of heartiness.

With these serving suggestions, you’re sure to impress everyone at your dinner table! Enjoy cooking and sharing this delicious Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch in advance and enjoy it throughout the week, saving you time on busy days.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before storing.
• Transfer the soup to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• If you have leftover pasta, consider storing it separately to maintain its texture.

Freezing

• Cool the soup completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Label the containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• If the soup is too thick after reheating, add a little extra chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

FAQs

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

Can I use different types of chicken in Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?

Absolutely! You can use boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts as per your preference. Both options work well in this recipe.

What can I substitute for heavy cream in Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?

If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can use coconut cream, cashew cream, or a blend of milk and cornstarch as a thickener. Adjust according to your taste preference!

How long does Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this delicious soup lasts about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Can I add more vegetables to my Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?

Definitely! Feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup as much as I do! It’s a special dish that brings warmth and comfort with every spoonful. Perfect for cozy nights or any day when you need a little extra love in your life. Don’t hesitate to share your experience or variations—you might just inspire someone else! Happy cooking!