Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup Recipe

Tuscan Chicken Soup is a comforting Italian-inspired dish made with chicken, vegetables, and aromatic herbs. It is known for its creamy base, which is achieved by adding heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. This soup often includes hearty vegetables like carrots, celery, and spinach, creating a delicious and well-rounded meal. The blend of seasonings such as thyme, rosemary, and oregano gives it that signature Tuscan flavor. Perfect for any time of the year, this soup brings a taste of Tuscany to your kitchen.

Preparation time for Tuscan Chicken Soup typically takes around 10 minutes, while cooking time is about 30-40 minutes. This makes it an easy and quick recipe to prepare, especially for busy days when you need a warm meal in no time. The total time to make this hearty dish is usually around 45 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a satisfying dinner or lunch.

This recipe has been a hit in many homes, providing a hearty, comforting dish for families. The creamy texture from the heavy cream pairs wonderfully with the depth of flavor from the herbs, creating a perfect balance. Adding spinach brings freshness, while the chicken offers protein and richness. The flexibility of this recipe allows for personal twists—such as adding more heat with red pepper flakes or extra veggies. It’s a versatile, nourishing option that pleases everyone around the table.

Why You’ll Love It Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Flavorful and Hearty: Tuscan Chicken Soup is a comforting, flavorful dish. It combines tender chicken, rich vegetables, and savory broth, creating a filling meal that warms you up from the inside out. This recipe offers a perfect balance of textures and tastes, making it irresistible.
• Easy to Make: This soup is simple to prepare, perfect for busy days. With easy-to-follow steps and minimal prep, it comes together quickly without sacrificing taste. You’ll love how fast you can enjoy this hearty meal without complicated cooking techniques.
• Nutritious and Healthy: Packed with healthy ingredients like chicken, vegetables, and beans, Tuscan Chicken Soup is not only delicious but also nutritious. It’s a great source of protein, fiber, and vitamins, helping you feel satisfied and energized all day long.

Ingredient Notes for Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this soup. They are lean and cook quickly, providing a tender, protein-packed base for the soup.
• Olive Oil: Olive oil adds flavor and richness to the soup. It’s used to sauté the vegetables, helping to release their natural flavors.
• Onion: A medium onion adds a sweet, savory base flavor. It’s often sautéed first to create a rich foundation for the soup.
• Carrots: Carrots bring a slight sweetness and vibrant color to the soup. Slice them thinly for even cooking and a pleasant texture.
• Celery Stalks: Celery adds a mild, fresh flavor and a bit of crunch. It pairs well with onions and carrots to create the classic vegetable base.
• Garlic: Garlic adds a bold, aromatic taste. It is finely minced and sautéed with the onion and celery to infuse the soup with flavor.
• Chicken Broth: Chicken broth is the base of the soup, providing a savory, rich flavor. It helps to combine all the ingredients and create a comforting liquid.
• Tomatoes: Canned or fresh tomatoes give the soup acidity and color. They balance the flavors of the herbs and add depth to the broth.
• Dried Thyme: Thyme is a fragrant herb that adds an earthy, slightly lemony flavor. It’s perfect for infusing the soup with warmth and richness.
• Dried Rosemary: Rosemary has a strong, pine-like aroma that complements the chicken and vegetables. A little goes a long way in flavoring the soup.
• Dried Oregano: Oregano adds a touch of Mediterranean flair to the soup. It’s slightly bitter and earthy, balancing the sweetness of the carrots and tomatoes.
• Salt and Pepper: These basic seasonings enhance all the other ingredients, ensuring the soup is flavorful. Adjust the amounts to taste as you cook.
• Red Pepper Flakes: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a bit of heat and spice to the soup. Use sparingly, depending on your heat preference.
• Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color, texture, and nutrients. It wilts nicely in the broth, contributing to the soup’s freshness.
• Heavy Cream: Heavy cream makes the soup rich and creamy. It softens the acidity from the tomatoes and gives the soup a smooth, velvety texture.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty, savory finish to the soup. Stir it in at the end or sprinkle it on top for a burst of flavor.

Helpful Tips and Add Your Touch

Tuscan chicken soup is a comforting dish, packed with flavors that warm you from the inside out. To make the soup even better, use fresh ingredients like chicken, vegetables, and herbs. This adds depth and makes it taste homemade. You can adjust the ingredients to your liking.

To elevate your Tuscan chicken soup, try adding a bit of cream or milk for extra richness. If you prefer a lighter version, skip the cream and add a splash of lemon juice for brightness. Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs like rosemary or thyme for a personalized twist.

Adding beans or pasta to your Tuscan chicken soup brings a hearty texture and more substance. Beans like white beans or chickpeas work well. Small pasta shapes like ditalini or orzo soak up the broth, making each spoonful satisfying and filling.

Tuscan Chicken Soup Variation

While the classic Tuscan Chicken Soup is already a crowd-pleaser, there are several variations you can try to add a twist to this delicious recipe.

• Creamy Version: For a creamier texture, you can add heavy cream or half-and-half. This will make the soup richer and more indulgent, perfect for those who enjoy a creamy broth.
• Spicy Tuscan Chicken Soup: To add a little heat, try adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the soup. This variation adds a delightful kick without overpowering the other flavors.
• Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian twist, substitute the chicken with plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh. You can also replace chicken broth with vegetable broth for a fully vegetarian option.
• Add More Greens: Kale is a traditional addition to Tuscan soups, so try adding more kale or spinach to the soup for an extra boost of nutrition and flavor.
• Zoodle Version: If you’re looking to make the soup lower in carbs, replace the pasta with zucchini noodles (zoodles) for a healthier, low-carb alternative.

How to Serve Tuscan Chicken Soup

Tuscan Chicken Soup can be served in several delicious ways, depending on your preferences:

• With Crusty Bread: A thick, hearty soup like this pairs perfectly with some freshly baked, crusty bread. It’s great for dipping and adds texture to each bite.
• Topped with Parmesan: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top of your soup will give it a rich, nutty flavor that complements the chicken and veggies.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or thyme add a burst of freshness and elevate the taste of the soup. Simply chop and sprinkle on top just before serving.
• Side Salad: Pairing your Tuscan Chicken Soup with a simple salad of mixed greens, tomatoes, and balsamic vinaigrette can create a well-rounded meal that’s both filling and refreshing.
• As a Main Dish: This soup is hearty enough to serve as a main course. If you’re looking for a filling, one-bowl meal, it’s the perfect option.

Storage Options

Tuscan Chicken Soup can be stored and enjoyed for several days. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

• Refrigeration: Store your leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. Just reheat it on the stove over low heat when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
• Freezing: If you want to keep your soup for a longer period, freezing is an excellent option. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw the soup in the fridge overnight and reheat it on the stove.
• Avoid Freezing Dairy: If you’ve made a creamy version of Tuscan Chicken Soup, be aware that dairy may separate when frozen and reheated. It’s best to freeze the soup without the cream or cheese, then add it when reheating for a fresh, creamy texture.

FAQs About Tuscan Chicken Soup

Can I make Tuscan chicken soup in advance?
Yes, Tuscan chicken soup can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for a few days. The flavors meld together even better after sitting overnight, making it perfect for meal prep.

Is Tuscan chicken soup healthy?
Tuscan chicken soup is a healthy option, as it is packed with lean protein from chicken and plenty of vegetables. It can be low in calories and full of nutrients, depending on the ingredients used.

What can I serve with Tuscan chicken soup?
Tuscan chicken soup pairs well with crusty bread, a side salad, or a light pasta dish. These sides complement the soup’s hearty and flavorful nature.

Can I make Tuscan chicken soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can easily make Tuscan chicken soup in a slow cooker. Simply add the ingredients to the slow cooker and let it cook on low for several hours for a delicious, hands-off meal.

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup Recipe

Tuscan Chicken Soup is a comforting Italian-inspired dishmade with chicken, vegetables, and aromatic herbs. It is known for its creamybase, which is achieved by adding heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. This soupoften includes hearty vegetables like carrots, celery, and spinach, creating adelicious and well-rounded meal. The blend of seasonings such as thyme,rosemary, and oregano gives it that signature Tuscan flavor. Perfect for anytime of the year, this soup brings a taste of Tuscany to your kitchen.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Course: Soup

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 380

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion diced
• 2 medium carrots peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks diced
• 4 cloves garlic minced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 can 15 oz diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for heat
• 3 cups fresh spinach chopped
• 1/2 cup heavy cream for creaminess
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese for a rich, savory finish

Equipment

• Large Pot or Dutch Oven
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Wooden Spoon
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Soup Ladle

Method

 

1. Sauté the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sear them for about 5-6 minutes per side until browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside to rest.
2. Cook the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the onion is translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the Broth and Tomatoes: Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes, stirring well to combine. Add the thyme, rosemary, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Shred the Chicken: While the soup simmers, shred the cooked chicken using two forks. Add the shredded chicken back into the pot.
5. Stir in the Spinach and Cream: Once the chicken is back in the pot, add the chopped spinach and stir until it wilts. Then, pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
6. Final Touches: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the soup in bowls, and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. You can even add a drizzle of extra cream for a luxurious finish.

Notes

To make this soup even heartier, you can add cooked pasta, like small shells or orzo, towards the end of the cooking process. This addition will provide extra texture and help turn this soup into a one-pot meal that satisfies both your hunger and taste buds. If you prefer a thicker soup, consider adding a slurry made from cornstarch and water or using a hand blender to puree part of the soup for a creamier texture.