Tuscan Chicken Soup

This Tuscan chicken soup is the perfect cozy Fall or Winter dinner recipe. Packed with flavor and protein, it’s made in one pot and is friendly for dairy-free diets. Serve this dish on a chilly evening, or make a double batch for meal prep throughout the week. Experience the warmth of Tuscan flavors right in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep and cooking time, this soup comes together quickly for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of spices, sun-dried tomatoes, and tender chicken creates a rich flavor profile that warms the soul.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize this soup by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the seasonings to suit your taste.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a large batch to enjoy throughout the week. It reheats beautifully and maintains its deliciousness.
• Healthy Comfort Food: This soup is nutrient-dense without sacrificing comfort, making it a guilt-free indulgence.

Tools and Preparation

Creating this delightful Tuscan chicken soup requires just a few essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Blender
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering soups as they distribute heat evenly, preventing burning.
• Blender: Useful for creating a creamy texture by blending part of the soup, enhancing its richness.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware, ensuring everything combines well.

Ingredients

To prepare this comforting Tuscan chicken soup, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion (diced)
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 2 large carrots (peeled and sliced)
• 1/3 cup diced sun-dried tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1/3 cup white apple vinegar
• 4 cups low sodium chicken broth
• 1 15-ounce can cannellini beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (dairy or non-dairy)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 – 1 1/2 teaspoons salt (start with 1 and add more as needed)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 cups spinach

How to Make Tuscan Chicken Soup

Step 1: Heat Olive Oil

In a large pot or Dutch oven, add in the olive oil and heat over medium heat.

Step 2: Sauté Onions

Add in the diced onion and sauté for about 2–3 minutes until translucent.

Step 3: Add Carrots and Garlic

Stir in the sliced carrots and sauté for an additional three minutes. Then add in the minced garlic, cooking for one minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Incorporate Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Add in the diced sun-dried tomatoes along with tomato paste. Sauté for another minute or two.

Step 5: Deglaze with Vinegar

Pour in the white apple vinegar and let it simmer until most of it has cooked off to enhance flavor.

Step 6: Add Broth and Beans

Pour in the chicken broth along with cannellini beans, heavy cream, dried thyme, oregano, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Leave out bay leaves for now.

Step 7: Blend for Creaminess

Stir everything together. Then scoop out about one cup of the mixture into a blender. Blend until smooth before pouring back into the pot to thicken.

Step 8: Add Chicken

Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken along with bay leaves. Let simmer for at least fifteen minutes to absorb all flavors.

Step 9: Wilt Spinach

Discard bay leaves then add spinach to wilt. Taste before serving; adjust flavors if necessary. If you prefer thinner soup consistency, add more chicken broth.

Step 10: Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley or red pepper flakes as desired. Enjoy your delicious Tuscan chicken soup!

How to Serve Tuscan Chicken Soup

Serving Tuscan chicken soup can elevate your dining experience. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this warm and comforting dish.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• A loaf of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the rich broth, enhancing the overall flavor and texture.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your soup with fresh parsley or basil for an aromatic touch that brightens up the dish.

Add a Squeeze of Lemon

• A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds a zesty kick and balances the savory flavors beautifully.

Serve with a Side Salad

• Pairing with a light salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup, making for a well-rounded meal.

Include Cheese Options

• If you enjoy dairy, sprinkle some grated parmesan or a dairy-free alternative on top for added creaminess.

Offer Red Pepper Flakes

• For those who like heat, providing red pepper flakes allows guests to customize their spice levels.

How to Perfect Tuscan Chicken Soup

Perfecting your Tuscan chicken soup involves simple adjustments to enhance its flavor and texture. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh herbs and vegetables will bring out vibrant flavors in your soup.
• Balance Seasoning – Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust salt and spices throughout the cooking process.
• Incorporate Variety – Feel free to add other veggies like zucchini or kale for additional nutrients and flavors.
• Blend for Creaminess – Blending a portion of the soup creates a thicker texture without heavy cream.
• Allow Time to Simmer – Letting the soup simmer longer allows flavors to meld beautifully.
• Store Properly – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge; it tastes even better the next day!

Best Side Dishes for Tuscan Chicken Soup

Pairing side dishes with Tuscan chicken soup can enhance your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options that complement its rich flavors.

1. Garlic Bread – This cheesy, buttery delight is perfect for sopping up every last drop of soup.
2. Caesar Salad – A crisp Caesar salad offers crunch and tang that balances the warmth of the soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies add an earthy flavor that complements the soup nicely.
4. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad with lemon dressing provides protein and freshness alongside the hearty dish.
5. Stuffed Peppers – Colorful stuffed peppers filled with grains and beans make a filling companion to your soup.
6. Pasta Primavera – Lightly sautéed seasonal vegetables tossed with pasta create a satisfying side dish that pairs well with the flavors of Tuscany.
7. Couscous Salad – A fluffy couscous salad mixed with herbs offers texture and enhances the overall meal experience.
8. Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses can provide variety and richness that enhances each spoonful of soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Tuscan chicken soup, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for a perfect dish.

• Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing the vegetables builds flavor. Don’t rush this step; allow the onions and carrots to soften before adding other ingredients.
• Ignoring seasoning: Taste as you cook! Adjust salt and spices throughout the process for balanced flavors. Start with less and add more as needed.
• Not blending enough: Blending a portion of the soup adds creaminess. If you skip this, your soup may lack that rich texture.
• Overcooking spinach: Add spinach at the end and just let it wilt. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture and loss of vibrant color.
• Choosing low-quality broth: The broth is the base of your soup. Use high-quality, low-sodium chicken broth for the best flavor without excessive salt.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool before sealing the container.

Freezing Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of the container for expansion when freezing.

Reheating Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake in an oven-safe dish until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Tuscan chicken soup.

Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Yes! Turkey works well as a substitute and adds a delicious flavor to your Tuscan chicken soup.

How can I make this soup spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or try incorporating diced jalapeños during cooking for an extra kick.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This Tuscan chicken soup stores well and can be made in advance for quick meals throughout the week.

Can I add other vegetables?

Feel free to customize! Adding zucchini or bell peppers can enhance both flavor and nutrition in your soup.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

For a lighter option, try using coconut cream or a non-dairy alternative like cashew cream to maintain richness without dairy.

Final Thoughts

This Tuscan chicken soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding different vegetables or adjusting spices to suit your taste. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a favorite cozy meal!