Table of Contents
Table of Contents
There’s something truly magical about a bowl of tuscan chicken soup rich, creamy, and packed with comforting flavors that warm you from the inside out. Imagine tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and fragrant garlic simmering together in a velvety broth, creating a dish that feels like a cozy Italian escape.
Whether you’re craving an easy weeknight meal or a soul soothing dinner on a chilly evening, this soup delivers. It’s hearty yet light, indulgent yet simple to make. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite greens, beans, or even a dairy-free twist.
Get ready to fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of this tuscan-inspired favorite, a recipe you’ll love making again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re looking for a comforting, flavorful meal that’s both easy to make and satisfying, tuscan chicken soup is a perfect choice. This dish blends creamy, rich broth with tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Italian herbs, creating a warm, hearty bowl packed with classic tuscan flavors.
Here’s why you’ll love making this soup:
- Simple Yet Elegant: With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can create a dish that feels restaurant-worthy without the extra effort.
- One-Pot Convenience: Everything comes together in a single pot, making cleanup a breeze.
- Customizable & Versatile: Whether you prefer a dairy-free option, extra protein, or added greens like spinach or kale, you can easily tailor this recipe to your taste.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: The flavors deepen over time, making leftovers even more delicious. It’s great for busy weeknights or make-ahead lunches.
This tuscan-inspired soup brings comfort and warmth to any table, making it a go-to recipe for cozy nights and effortless entertaining.
Ingredients
Gather these simple yet flavorful ingredients to create a rich and comforting tuscan chicken soup.
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (or thighs)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups fresh spinach (or 1 ½ cups chopped kale)
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper, or to taste
Customizable Additions:
- For a dairy-free version: Use 1 cup coconut milk instead of heavy cream.
- For extra protein: Add an extra ½ lb chicken or another can of beans.
- To make it low-carb: Skip the beans and stir in 1 cup cauliflower rice.
Now that you have everything prepped, you’re ready to start cooking this creamy, tuscan-inspired soup that’s both hearty and easy to make.
Directions
This tuscan chicken soup is simple to make and comes together effortlessly in one pot. Follow these easy steps to create a flavorful, creamy, and comforting meal.
Cook the Aromatics:
Begin by warming 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until it becomes translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, just until its fragrance fills the air.
Sear the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts into the pot, seasoning them with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Let them brown for about 2 minutes per side, which enhances their texture and adds depth to the broth.
Simmer the Soup Base:
Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, then pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the chicken is fully covered. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then lower it to a simmer. Cover the pot and let the soup cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing the chicken to become tender and absorb all the flavors.
Shred the Chicken:
Using tongs, remove the chicken from the pot and place it on a cutting board. With two forks, shred it into small, bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir well.
Make It Creamy:
Pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously to combine it evenly with the broth. If using cannellini beans, add them now. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes, blending all the flavors together.
Add the Finishing Touches:
Gently stir in the fresh spinach (or kale) and cook for 2 minutes, just until wilted. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring well to incorporate its nutty, salty richness into the soup.
Taste and Serve:
Give the soup a final taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Once everything is well combined, ladle the warm soup into bowls. Serve with crusty bread or a fresh salad, and enjoy your homemade tuscan chicken soup.
Expert Tips and Variations
To make your tuscan chicken soup even more enjoyable and customizable, here are a few expert tips and variations that will take it to the next level.
Tips for Success
- Use bone-in chicken: If you have extra time, try using bone-in chicken breasts or thighs. This adds a rich, deep flavor to the broth. Just be sure to remove the bones before shredding the meat.
- Don’t overcook the spinach: To preserve its vibrant color and nutrients, add the spinach (or kale) near the end of cooking and let it wilt for just a minute or two.
- Adjust the creaminess: For a thicker, richer soup, add a bit more heavy cream or Parmesan cheese. If you prefer a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of cream.
- Add some heat: If you enjoy a little spice, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to give the soup a flavorful kick.
Flavor Variations
- Swap the beans: Not a fan of cannellini beans? You can use other varieties like great northern beans or chickpeas. Both will add a slightly different texture but still maintain that hearty feel.
- Dairy-free option: If you’re dairy-free, use coconut milk in place of the cream and skip the parmesan. The coconut milk will give a subtle, tropical twist to the soup without compromising creaminess.
- Add extra veggies: Want to load up on more veggies? Toss in some zucchini, carrots, or celery for added nutrition and flavor. You can also add roasted red peppers for a smoky touch.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Store leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld together. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze it: If you want to make this soup in advance, you can freeze it (without the spinach and cream) for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, defrost and then add the fresh spinach and cream before serving.
These tips and variations will help you make this tuscan chicken soup uniquely yours, whether you’re sticking to the original recipe or getting creative. The best part? It’s a flexible dish that you can adapt based on your personal taste and what ingredients you have on hand. Enjoy.
Serving Suggestions
Once your tuscan chicken soup is ready to serve, it’s time to make your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some delicious ideas for pairing and serving this flavorful soup.
Perfect Pairings
- Crusty Bread: A warm, hearty bowl of soup calls for a piece of crusty bread for dipping. Whether you choose a rustic sourdough or a soft ciabatta, the bread will soak up all the delicious broth and add the perfect balance of texture.
- Salads: Pairing this soup with a crisp salad is always a winner. Consider a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or a simple caesar salad for a bit of extra creaminess to complement the soup.
- Garlic Bread: If you want to elevate the meal, serve it with garlic bread. The buttery, garlicky flavor pairs beautifully with the savory soup, making every bite irresistible.
Meal Enhancements
- Top it with more cheese: If you’re a cheese lover, don’t be shy about adding an extra sprinkle of Parmesan or mozzarella on top of your soup before serving. For a crispy finish, pop the soup under the broiler for a minute to melt the cheese.
- Add fresh herbs: Garnish your soup with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor that complements the richness of the soup.
- Squeeze of lemon: A quick squeeze of lemon juice right before serving brightens up the flavors, giving the soup a zesty contrast to its creamy base.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This tuscan chicken soup is versatile enough for any occasion whether you’re enjoying it as a cozy dinner at home or serving it at a family gathering. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday meals, or even a special gathering with friends. No matter when you serve it, your guests will be asking for seconds.
With these serving suggestions, you can tailor your meal to fit your tastes and elevate the experience. Enjoy every spoonful of this comforting and satisfying soup.
FAQs
Got questions about making tuscan chicken soup? Here are some common inquiries to help you perfect this dish with ease.
1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely. This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, gently reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
2. Can I freeze Tuscan Chicken Soup?
Yes, but with a small adjustment. If you plan to freeze it, leave out the spinach and cream until after reheating to prevent changes in texture. Store the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When reheating, stir in fresh spinach and cream for the best taste and consistency.
3. What can I use instead of heavy cream?
For a lighter version, swap heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. If you’re dairy-free, coconut milk is a great alternative that still adds richness without compromising flavor.
4. How do I thicken the soup?
If you prefer a thicker soup, try these methods:
- Mash some of the beans before adding them to the broth.
- Simmer a little longer to reduce excess liquid.
- Stir in extra Parmesan cheese for a creamy, cheesy consistency.
5. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes. To make this in a slow cooker, add all ingredients except the cream and spinach. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Before serving, stir in the cream and spinach and let it heat through for a few minutes.
6. What protein can I use instead of chicken?
While chicken is the classic choice, you can swap it for:
- Turkey: A great way to use up leftover roasted turkey.
- Sausage: Try Italian sausage for a flavorful twist.
- Shrimp: Add at the end for a seafood variation.
These FAQs cover everything you need to know to customize and perfect your tuscan chicken soup. If you have more questions, feel free to experiment and make this recipe your own.
Recipe Card
Tuscan Chicken Soup
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (or thighs)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups fresh spinach, or 1 ½ cups chopped kale
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans optional
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the Aromatics: Begin by warming 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until it becomes translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, just until its fragrance fills the air.
- Sear the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts into the pot, seasoning them with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Let them brown for about 2 minutes per side, which enhances their texture and adds depth to the broth.
- Simmer the Soup Base: Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, then pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the chicken is fully covered. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then lower it to a simmer. Cover the pot and let the soup cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing the chicken to become tender and absorb all the flavors.
- Shred the Chicken: Using tongs, remove the chicken from the pot and place it on a cutting board. With two forks, shred it into small, bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir well.
- Make It Creamy: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously to combine it evenly with the broth. If using cannellini beans, add them now. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes, blending all the flavors together.
- Add the Finishing Touches: Gently stir in the fresh spinach (or kale) and cook for 2 minutes, just until wilted. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring well to incorporate its nutty, salty richness into the soup.
- Taste and Serve: Give the soup a final taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Once everything is well combined, ladle the warm soup into bowls. Serve with crusty bread or a fresh salad, and enjoy your homemade tuscan chicken soup.
Notes
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
Closing Notes
There’s something truly special about a bowl of tuscan chicken soup. It’s comforting, satisfying, and bursting with rich flavors. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or serving guests, this dish is a surefire way to impress.
One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Want a lighter version? Swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or leave it out entirely. Looking for a heartier meal? Add extra vegetables or a handful of pasta. No matter how you make it, this soup is bound to become a go-to favorite.
Now that you have this delicious and easy tuscan chicken soup recipe, it’s time to grab your ingredients and get cooking. Enjoy every spoonful, and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family.