Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup Recipe

Indulge in the comforting embrace of a bowl of Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup – a delicious blend of tender chicken, flavorful parmesan, and rich broth that’s perfect for warming up on chilly evenings. This recipe takes the classic chicken soup to new heights with the addition of fresh spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and a luxurious touch of heavy cream. The Tuscan twist on this dish adds a depth of flavor that will transport you to the sun-soaked hills of Italy with every spoonful.

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup strikes the perfect balance between ease and indulgence, making it a versatile option for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. With the flexibility to customize ingredients to your liking, this one-pot wonder is a crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress. In just 35 minutes, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on the table that will satisfy your cravings for something hearty and delicious. So, grab your ingredients, get cooking, and treat yourself to a bowl of pure comfort that’s as easy to make as it is delightful to savor.

Quick Benefits

• Creates restaurant-quality soup in under an hour
• Balanced blend of creamy comfort and fresh vegetables
• Perfect for both weeknight dinners and entertaining
• Easily customizable to your taste preferences

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup Recipe Recipe

• Creates restaurant-quality soup in under an hour
• Balanced blend of creamy comfort and fresh vegetables
• Perfect for both weeknight dinners and entertaining
• Makes excellent leftovers when stored properly
• Easily customizable to your taste preferences
• Rich enough to be a complete meal
• Chicken Thighs: Choose bone-in for extra flavor, removing skin optional
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Look for oil-packed for best flavor and texture
• Fresh Spinach: Baby spinach provides the most tender result
• Small Pasta: Shells catch the creamy broth perfectly
• White Wine: Use a dry variety you’d drink yourself
• Heavy Cream: Full-fat provides the best texture and prevents curdling
• The key to this soup’s success lies in achieving the perfect consistency.
• Never boil after adding cream
• Cook pasta just shy of al dente
• Season in layers while cooking
• Use room temperature cream
• Reserve some pasta water
• Julienne sun-dried tomatoes for better distribution
• Keep extra hot broth ready for adjusting
• Warm bowls before serving
• Make extra for planned leftovers
• Store components separately
• This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup has become my go-to recipe for both family dinners and casual entertaining.
• The combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and creamy broth creates a satisfying meal that brings people together.
• Whether you’re seeking comfort on a cold day or wanting to experience a taste of Tuscany, this soup delivers both nourishment and flavor in every spoonful.
• The key is respecting each component while letting them come together harmoniously.

Ingredients for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup Recipe

Chicken

• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 500g/1 lb chicken thighs, skinless boneless
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper

Soup Base

• 2 large celery stems, finely sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups low sodium chicken stock
• 30g/2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cups water
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 onion, finely chopped

Finishing Ingredients

• 2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water
• 250g/8 oz small pasta shells
• 1/2 cup sun dried tomato strips, chopped
• 2 packed cups baby spinach
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup finely grated parmesan, tightly packed

Pro Tips for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup Recipe

To ensure the perfect texture of your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, opt for bone-in chicken thighs for extra flavor. When adding the heavy cream, make sure it’s at room temperature to prevent curdling. To achieve the ideal consistency, gradually add the cornstarch slurry while stirring until the soup reaches the desired thickness.

For the best flavor profile, choose oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes and baby spinach for a tender result. When cooking the small pasta shells, aim for just shy of al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy in the creamy broth. Remember to season your soup in layers while cooking and never boil it after adding the cream to maintain its velvety texture.

For a successful cooking experience, julienne the sun-dried tomatoes for better distribution and have extra hot broth ready for adjustments. Warm your serving bowls before ladling the soup in, and consider making extra for planned leftovers. By storing the components separately, you can easily enjoy this comforting Tuscan soup multiple times, whether for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings with friends.

How to Make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup Recipe

Step 1: Step 01

Season chicken with salt and pepper. Melt butter in a large pot over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 3 minutes on the first side until lightly golden, then 2 minutes on the second side. Transfer chicken to a plate (it’s fine if it’s still raw inside).

Step 2: Step 02

Lower the heat to medium-low. Cook garlic, onion, and celery until softened, about 3 minutes. Increase heat to high, pour in wine, and cook until reduced by half.

Step 3: Step 03

Combine stock, water, salt, and pepper in a pot and bring to a boil. Add pasta and cook for about 10 minutes, following package instructions, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Step 04

While the pasta is cooking, chop the chicken into 1.5cm/1/2″ pieces and add them to the pot to cook through.

Step 5: Step 05

After cooking the pasta, lower the heat. Stir in melted parmesan, followed by the cornstarch mixture, cream, and spinach. Stir until the spinach wilts and the soup slightly thickens.

Step 6: Step 06

Divide the soup into bowls and garnish with sun-dried tomato strips and a drizzle of their oil.

Storage Tips

To store the finished Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, ensure it is completely cooled to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It is recommended to store the soup in the refrigerator and consume it within 3-4 days for optimal freshness. When reheating the soup, do so gently over low heat to prevent the cream from curdling, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

If you have leftovers or prefer to make the soup ahead of time, consider storing the components separately. Keep the cooked pasta shells in a separate container to prevent them from becoming mushy in the broth. Store the parmesan cheese, heavy cream, and vegetable components like spinach and sun-dried tomatoes individually to maintain their freshness. When ready to enjoy, combine the components and heat the soup gently, adjusting the consistency as needed with additional broth or cream. Storing the components separately allows for a convenient and fresh serving each time, maintaining the soup’s quality and flavors.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute chicken breasts for the chicken thighs in this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup recipe. Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts and adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they are cooked through without becoming tough.

For a vegetarian twist, you can easily replace the chicken with white beans or chickpeas to add protein and substance to the soup. Simply add the beans towards the end of cooking to heat through without getting mushy.

If you’re lactose intolerant or looking for a dairy-free alternative, you can swap the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream substitute. Be mindful of the flavor profile of the cream alternative you choose, as it may impart a slightly different taste to the soup.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate the presentation of this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, consider serving it in rustic bread bowls. Hollow out round loaves of crusty bread, ladle the soup into the bread bowls, and top with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. The combination of creamy soup, hearty bread, and savory toppings will create a delightful dining experience that’s both visually appealing and delicious.

For a more elegant twist, serve the Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup in individual mini pumpkin bowls. Hollow out small pumpkins, roast them until tender, and then fill each with a generous serving of the soup. Garnish with a swirl of heavy cream, a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs, and a few sun-dried tomato strips for a stunning presentation that’s perfect for autumn gatherings or special occasions. These unique serving vessels will impress your guests and add a festive touch to the meal.

FAQs for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup Recipe

Can I use a different type of pasta in this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the small pasta shells with your favorite pasta shape, like penne, fusilli, or farfalle.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the components of the soup separately and assemble them just before serving. Store the cooked pasta, chicken, and broth in separate containers in the refrigerator and combine them when ready to eat.

How long can I store leftovers of this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?

Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of chicken stock or water to adjust the consistency.

Can I make this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup without wine?

Yes, the white wine in the recipe is optional. You can omit it altogether or substitute it with chicken broth for a slightly different flavor profile.

Conclusion

As you dive into making your own batch of Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, remember that this recipe is not just about creating a delicious meal but about embracing the warmth and comfort that only a bowl of soup can offer. The melding of flavors and textures, from the tender chicken to the creamy broth and the burst of sun-dried tomatoes, truly encapsulates the essence of Tuscan cuisine.

Don’t be afraid to make this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup your own by adding your personal touch or variations. Let your creativity shine through as you adapt this recipe to suit your preferences and make it a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests at a gathering, this soup is sure to be a hit every time.

So, gather your ingredients, set aside some time to simmer and savor the process, and soon you’ll be rewarded with a steaming bowl of Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup that will warm your heart and soul. Embrace the culinary journey and enjoy the comforting flavors of Tuscany with each spoonful of this soul-soothing soup.