Whisked Away to Tuscany (Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup)

Get ready to fall head over heels for this irresistible Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup! With every spoonful, you’ll experience a cozy embrace of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a luxuriously creamy sauce that’s bursting with flavor. Whether you’re seeking comfort on a chilly evening or a quick weeknight meal, this dish is your ticket to happiness—a true celebration of home-cooked goodness that promises warmth and deliciousness in every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is more than just a meal; it’s an experience! Here’s why you’ll be dreaming about it long after dinner:

– Big, Bold Flavors: A delightful mix of Italian seasonings and fresh ingredients makes for a flavor explosion that dances on your palate.
– Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family gatherings, dinner parties, or cozy nights in, this dish is guaranteed to impress!
– Flexible & Fast: With a prep time of just 20 minutes, you can whip this up even on your busiest days.
– Make-Ahead Magic: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it a fantastic option for meal prepping.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Prepare yourself for a flavor adventure with these wholesome ingredients. The combination of fresh veggies, creamy goodness, and succulent chicken will have your taste buds singing!

– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– 1-1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (diced into 1-inch pieces; I used 1½ pounds)
– 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning (divided)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– ½ cup diced carrots
– ½ cup diced celery
– ½ cup diced onions
– ¼ cup diced sun-dried tomatoes
– 3 garlic cloves (minced)
– ¼ 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
– ½-1 cup grated Parmesan Reggiano cheese
– 2½-3 cups fresh spinach

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

One of the best things about this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is how customizable it is! Here are some creative twists to make it your own:

– Go Gluten-Free: Swap the pasta for gluten-free varieties or zucchini noodles to keep it light and nutritious.
– Add Extra Protein: Toss in some white beans or chickpeas for an added protein punch.
– Make it Spicier: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a delightful kick!
– Swap the Dressing: Experiment with different herbs like basil or thyme for unique flavor profiles.
– Cheese it Up: Mix in different cheeses like mozzarella for a gooey, cheesy finish.

How to Make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Now, let’s dive into the magic of making this comforting bowl of joy! Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken along with 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and generously season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is beautifully browned on all sides, about 4-5 minutes.

Step 2: Add the Veggies

In the same pot, toss in the diced onions, carrots, celery, sun-dried tomatoes, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Feel that aroma wafting through your kitchen? It’s heavenly!

Step 3: Sprinkle the Flour

Sprinkle the flour evenly over the mixture and stir well to combine. This will thicken your soup to creamy perfection! If you’re using tomato paste, add it now and stir until everything is well coated.

Step 4: Whisk in the Broth

Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Scrape the bottom of the pot with your spoon to deglaze those delicious brown bits!

Step 5: Boil and Simmer

Bring the mixture to a rolling boil and then toss in the pasta along with another teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low, allowing the soup to simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and the pasta is al dente. Alternatively, you can boil the pasta separately and add it right at the end.

Step 6: Add the Cream and Spinach

Open the pot and gently stir in the heavy cream, fresh spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes, until the spinach is wilted and the cheese has melted into your creamy dream.

Step 7: Taste and Adjust

Give your soup a taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and spices as desired.

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

– Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables will elevate the flavor and make your soup taste like it’s straight from a Tuscan kitchen!
– Don’t Rush the Browning: Letting the chicken brown properly adds depth and flavor to the entire soup.
– Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, simply add a bit more flour or reduce the amount of broth.
– Blend for Creaminess: For an ultra-smooth texture, blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in.

How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Garnishes

Serve your soup with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil for that pop of color and flavor!

Side Dishes

Pair this delightful soup with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad for a well-rounded meal that satisfies all your cravings!

Creative Ways to Present

Get fancy and serve in individual cups for a dinner party, or set up a soup bar with various toppings for a fun family night. You could even pack it in lunchboxes for a warm, comforting meal on the go.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. This soup only gets better as the flavors meld!

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup! Just be sure to leave out the pasta—add it fresh when you reheat. The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if the soup has thickened too much in the fridge or freezer.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with turkey or even shrimp for a delightful twist.

Is this soup spicy?
Not at all! It’s mild and creamy, but you can easily make it spicier with some red pepper flakes.

Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes! You can make it ahead of time and simply reheat when you’re ready to enjoy.

How do I make this gluten-free?
Swap out the pasta for gluten-free alternatives or use rice instead!

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is a heartwarming hug in a bowl that brings joy to your dinner table. With its rich, creamy texture and robust flavors, it’s the perfect dish to make memories over. So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and let the culinary magic begin! You’re just a few simple steps away from a delicious meal that’s sure to impress. Happy cooking! 🍲✨