Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup Recipe

If you’re searching for pure comfort in a bowl, look no further than Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup. This soul-soothing dish blends tender bites of chicken, bright vegetables, sun-dried tomatoes, and a swirl of spinach in a rich, creamy broth. Parmesan and Italian herbs bring plenty of character, small pasta shells make things heartier, and every spoonful is impossibly satisfying. Whether you want to impress company or just cozy up on a rainy evening, Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is destined to become a go-to favorite for any season.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things refreshingly simple with ingredients that shine together, creating a dance of flavors and textures. From the savory chicken to the pop of sundried tomatoes, each addition plays an important part in the final bowl—so don’t skip on the details!

• Olive oil: A drizzle to start things off, ensuring the chicken browns beautifully and adds a hint of richness.
• Chicken breasts or thighs (diced): Choose either for juicy, tender chunks that soak up the flavors; thighs give extra richness, while breasts keep it lean.
• Italian seasoning: The key to classic Tuscan flair, this blend ties all the veggies and chicken together with herbal warmth.
• Salt and pepper: Season generously to bring out the best in every ingredient.
• Diced carrots: For subtle sweetness and plenty of color.
• Diced celery: Adds depth and a crisp bite, intensifying the soup’s base.
• Diced onions: Aromatic and essential for that savory backbone.
• Sundried tomatoes: Each bit offers a burst of tangy, intense tomato flavor—don’t skip these for true Tuscan vibes.
• Minced garlic: It wouldn’t be an Italian-inspired soup without that irresistible garlicky aroma!
• Flour: For thickening the soup, creating that lovely creamy texture.
• Tomato paste (optional): Adds extra depth and a delicate rosy hue; perfect if you want more robust tomato notes.
• Chicken broth: Start with 6 cups and add more to get your ideal consistency; it’s the flavorful foundation that carries all the other ingredients.
• Pasta (Italian small shells): Their shape catches every drop of creamy broth—pure comfort!
• Heavy whipping cream: This is what makes the soup luxurious, lush, and oh-so-creamy.
• Parmesan Reggiano cheese (grated): Choose real Parm for the tastiest, most authentic finish.
• Fresh spinach: Wilts beautifully into the hot soup, adding color, nutrients, and a gentle earthiness.

How to Make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Step 1: Brown the Chicken

Begin by heating olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add in your diced chicken along with a teaspoon of Italian seasoning and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Cook the chicken until it’s browned on all sides, which should only take about 4-5 minutes. This step builds fantastic flavor and gives your soup a savory base.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, toss in your diced onions, carrots, celery, sundried tomatoes, and minced garlic. Sauté everything together until the vegetables become soft and translucent—about 3-4 minutes. The aroma will be incredible, and these veggies will perfectly flavor the soup as it simmers.

Step 3: Add the Flour and Tomato Paste

Sprinkle the flour throughout the pot, stirring while you go to blend it into the mixture evenly. Doing this in stages helps keep clumps at bay and prevents the soup from drying out. If you’re using tomato paste, add it now and stir it well to infuse the soup with color and richness.

Step 4: Add the Broth and Deglaze

Slowly pour in your chicken broth, whisking as you go to make sure there are no flour lumps. Use your spoon to scrape up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan—these will really elevate the taste of your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta and Simmer

Bring the soup to a rolling boil, then stir in the pasta, the remaining teaspoon of Italian seasoning, plus salt and pepper to taste. Pop the lid on your pot and lower the heat to let the soup gently simmer for about 20 minutes, just until the chicken is tender and the pasta is al dente. If you prefer, you can cook the pasta separately and add it at the end—totally up to you!

Step 6: Finish with Cream, Spinach, and Parmesan

Uncover the pot and pour in your heavy cream, then stir in the fresh spinach and grated Parmesan. Let the soup simmer uncovered for another 5 minutes, allowing it to become silky and rich. The spinach will wilt quickly, and the Parmesan will melt for irresistible creaminess.

Step 7: Taste and Adjust

Before serving, always taste your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup and tweak the salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning if needed. This final step ensures every mouthful is perfectly seasoned and delicious.

How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Garnishes

Add a flurry of extra Parmesan cheese, a sprinkle of fresh cracked black pepper, and maybe even chopped basil or parsley for a burst of color. A drizzle of good olive oil over individual bowls never hurts, either!

Side Dishes

Rustic, crusty bread is made for dipping into this creamy soup. You could also pair with a crisp green salad tossed in a zesty vinaigrette to keep things balanced. Garlic bread or focaccia are delicious options that truly highlight the Tuscan flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Ladle your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup into wide bowls and top with swirls of cream or a dusting of extra cheese for a restaurant-style look. For casual get-togethers, try serving the soup in mugs, making it easy to cozy up and sip without a spoon. Tiny bread bowls also make a stunning and fun presentation for dinner parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 or 4 days, and the flavors become even richer as it sits!

Freezing

For longer storage, this soup can be frozen. Cool it completely, then portion into freezer-safe bags or containers. For best results, freeze before adding the cream and spinach; stir those in when reheating for a fresher taste and texture.

Reheating

Simply reheat the soup gently over the stove on medium-low until warmed through, stirring now and then. If it has thickened up a bit, add a splash of broth or cream to return it to its original silky consistency. Avoid boiling to keep the cream from separating.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. Simply add shredded cooked chicken after the veggies have softened and before simmering with the broth and pasta. It makes the soup extra quick to prepare.

What if I want it even creamier?

If you crave an ultra-creamy texture, you can increase the heavy cream by 1/4 to 1/2 cup, or blend a cup of the finished soup (without the pasta) and stir it back in. The cheese also adds richness, so don’t hold back there!

Are there other vegetables I can add?

Definitely! Mushrooms, diced zucchini, or roasted red peppers are tasty additions. Just be sure not to overload the pot so you maintain that dreamy, creamy broth that makes Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup special.

What kind of pasta works best?

Small shapes like shells, ditalini, or even broken spaghetti are all good choices. Their shape helps catch the creamy soup, making every bite just a little more comforting.

Is Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup gluten-free?

With a couple of tweaks, yes! Swap regular flour for a gluten-free blend and use gluten-free pasta—the soup will still be every bit as delicious.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about a big pot of Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup simmering away on your stove. It’s approachable, comforting, and packed with flavors that never get old. If you haven’t made it yet, this is your sign to give it a try—your taste buds (and your loved ones) will thank you!

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