Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and hearty ingredients. This comforting soup is perfect for cozy nights in, family gatherings, or meal prep for busy weekdays. With its creamy broth, tender chicken, and colorful veggies, it’s a feast for the senses. Plus, it’s easy to make in just one pot!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This soup comes together in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
• Comforting Flavors: The creamy broth and seasoned chicken deliver a warm hug in a bowl that everyone will love.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out vegetables or pasta types based on what you have on hand.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch ahead of time and store it for delicious meals throughout the week.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one pot.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: It allows ample space for cooking all ingredients without overcrowding.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures quick and safe chopping of vegetables and chicken.
• Ladle: Perfect for serving soup into bowls without spills.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Soup Base

• 500 g/1 lb chicken thighs, skinless boneless (Note 1 for breast)
• 1/2 tsp each salt and pepper
• 30g / 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 large celery stems, finely sliced (sub 2 carrots)
• 4 cups chicken stock/broth, low sodium
• 3 cups water

For Flavoring and Creaminess

• 1 tsp cooking/kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 250g/8 oz small pasta shells
• 1 cup (tightly packed) parmesan, finely grated or store-bought pre-grated (sandy type)
• 1 cup thickened/heavy cream

For Freshness and Garnish

• 2 packed cups baby spinach, chopped kale or similar
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomato strips, chopped into 1cm pieces, plus a bit of oil drizzling
• 2 tsp cornflour/cornstarch mixed with water

How to Make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Sprinkle both sides of the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. In a large pot over medium-high heat, melt the butter until foamy. Add the chicken thighs and cook for about three minutes until golden on one side, then flip and cook for an additional two minutes. The inside can remain slightly raw as it will continue cooking later. Remove the chicken from the pot onto a plate.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add minced garlic, chopped onion, and sliced celery into the same pot. Sauté these ingredients for about three minutes until the onion softens.

Step 3: Deglaze the Pot

Increase heat back to high. Pour in some apple vinegar (or substitute with another non-alcoholic option), stirring constantly. Let it simmer until reduced by half.

Step 4: Add Broth & Pasta

Stir in low-sodium chicken stock/broth, water, salt, and pepper. Bring this mixture to a boil before adding the pasta shells. Cook according to package instructions (usually around ten minutes).

Step 5: Incorporate Chicken Pieces

While waiting for the pasta to cook, chop the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces (about 1.5 cm / 1/2 inch) and add them back into the pot to finish cooking.

Step 6: Finish Your Soup

Once your pasta is cooked through, reduce heat to low. Stir in grated parmesan until melted smoothly into the broth. Mix in your cornflour-water mixture along with heavy cream and spinach; stir gently for about one minute until spinach wilts down.

Step 7: Serve It Up!

Ladle your delicious soup into bowls. Top with sun-dried tomato strips drizzled with a little oil for added flavor before serving.

Step 8: Storing Tips

To keep leftovers fresh, separate pasta from soup so it doesn’t bloat when stored in the refrigerator. Use a slotted spoon when scooping out servings to avoid excess liquid.

Enjoy your delightful bowl of Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup!

How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy dinner or a special occasion, there are plenty of options to elevate your meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley – A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley adds not only color but also a burst of fresh flavor that complements the soup perfectly.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Sourdough or Baguette – Serve with slices of crusty bread for dipping. The texture and flavor of the bread enhance the creamy broth.

Add Extra Protein

• Grilled Chicken Strips – Top your soup with grilled chicken strips for an added protein boost, making it even heartier.

Include a Side Salad

• Mixed Green Salad – A light mixed green salad with a vinaigrette dressing can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.

Drizzle with Olive Oil

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil – A drizzle of high-quality olive oil on top just before serving enhances the flavors and gives a gourmet touch.

Serve with Cheese

• Grated Parmesan – Offer additional grated parmesan on the side for those who love an extra cheesy experience.

How to Perfect Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Perfecting your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is easy with these helpful tips. These tweaks will ensure your soup reaches its full potential in flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Opt for fresh vegetables and herbs to enhance the overall taste and nutritional value of your soup.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Follow package instructions carefully to avoid mushy pasta; you want it al dente, as it will continue cooking in the soup.
• Adjust Seasonings – Taste and adjust salt and pepper levels throughout the cooking process for optimal flavor balance.
• Incorporate Seasonal Vegetables – Feel free to add seasonal vegetables like zucchini or carrots to diversify textures and flavors.
• Let It Sit Before Serving – Allowing the soup to sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking can help meld all flavors together beautifully.
• Store Properly – Keep pasta separate from the soup when storing leftovers to prevent it from becoming soggy.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Enjoying Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is even better when paired with complementary side dishes. Here’s a selection that works wonderfully alongside it.

1. Garlic Bread – A classic choice, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy broth while adding rich flavors.
2. Caesar Salad – This crisp salad provides a refreshing crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies can add depth and nutrition, making your meal more balanced.
4. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad can introduce protein and fiber while keeping things healthy and delicious.
5. Cheesy Flatbreads – Soft flatbreads topped with cheese make for a delightful pairing that satisfies cravings.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers – These can serve as both a side dish and an additional main course option, filled with grains, beans, or veggies.
7. Zucchini Fritters – Crispy fritters add texture and flavor, complementing the smoothness of the soup beautifully.
8. Crispy Potato Wedges – Seasoned potato wedges offer crunchiness that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy soup base.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the chicken and broth properly can lead to bland soup. Always taste as you go and adjust seasoning accordingly.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the pasta too long can make it mushy. Follow package instructions and add it at the right time during cooking.
• Neglecting to chop evenly: If ingredients are cut unevenly, they won’t cook uniformly. Ensure that chicken, vegetables, and spinach are chopped into similar sizes for even cooking.
• Using low-quality broth: A poor-quality broth can negatively impact flavor. Use low-sodium chicken stock or homemade broth for a richer taste.
• Ignoring storage guidelines: Not storing leftover soup correctly can spoil it quickly. Keep pasta separate from the soup to maintain texture when refrigerating.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup in airtight containers.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat on medium power, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is a rich and flavorful dish made with chicken, vegetables, and a creamy broth that evokes the essence of Tuscany.

Can I use other types of meat in this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey or even beef if preferred. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on your choice of meat.

How can I customize Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?

Feel free to add extra vegetables like carrots or zucchini, or swap in different pasta types based on your preference!

Is this soup suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This soup is perfect for meal prep as it keeps well in the fridge or freezer. Just store pasta separately as mentioned.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Its creamy texture combined with tender chicken and fresh spinach makes it a comforting choice. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients! Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delightful bowl of warmth today.