Tuscan Chicken Soup

This Tuscan chicken soup is a delightful, heartwarming dish perfect for cozy Fall and Winter dinners. Packed with vibrant flavors, protein from tender chicken, and nutrient-rich veggies, this one-pot meal is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal prep option, this Tuscan Chicken Soup fits the bill perfectly!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Wonder: Simplify your cooking with minimal cleanup—everything cooks in one pot!
• Flavorful & Hearty: A rich blend of spices and sun-dried tomatoes adds depth and warmth to every spoonful.
• Versatile Ingredients: Easily adapt this soup with whatever vegetables or proteins you have on hand.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a double batch for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• Dairy-Free Option: Enjoy a creamy texture without dairy by using non-dairy cream alternatives.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you need to make this Tuscan chicken soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Blender

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering soups evenly while providing enough space to cook all ingredients comfortably.
• Blender: Helps achieve a creamy texture by blending part of the soup; can be used to make smoothies too!

Ingredients

To create this delicious 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 the Olive Oil

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

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add in the diced onion and sauté for about 2–3 minutes until it becomes translucent.
Then stir in the sliced carrots and continue to sauté for an additional 3 minutes. Add in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Step 3: Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Mix in the sun-dried tomatoes and tomato paste, sautéing for another minute or two to combine flavors.

Step 4: Incorporate Vinegar

Pour in the white apple vinegar, allowing it to simmer until it cooks off. This will enhance the flavor profile without leaving any alcohol behind.

Step 5: Combine Broth and Beans

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

Step 6: Blend Part of the Soup

Stir everything together. Scoop out about one cup of soup into a blender. Blend until smooth then pour back into the pot. This step helps thicken your soup for a creamy texture.

Step 7: Simmer with Chicken

Add in shredded rotisserie chicken and bay leaves. Let simmer for at least 15 minutes so all flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 8: Finish with Spinach

Discard bay leaves before adding spinach to the pot. Allow it to wilt into the soup. Taste your creation and adjust seasonings as desired. If you prefer a thinner consistency, simply add more chicken broth.

Step 9: Serve & Enjoy!

Garnish your bowl of Tuscan chicken soup with fresh parsley or red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

How to Serve Tuscan Chicken Soup

Tuscan chicken soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Basil Leaves: Add torn basil leaves for a fragrant herbal note that complements the soup beautifully.

Accompanied by Bread

• Crusty Baguette: Serve with slices of warm, crusty baguette for dipping and soaking up the delicious broth.
• Garlic Bread: Pair with garlic bread for a buttery, savory addition that enhances the overall flavor.

Topped with Additions

• Red Pepper Flakes: For those who like it spicy, sprinkle red pepper flakes on top to add heat.
• Shaved Parmesan: Finish with shaved parmesan cheese (or a dairy-free alternative) for a rich, nutty flavor.

How to Perfect Tuscan Chicken Soup

Creating the perfect Tuscan chicken soup requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out amazing every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavors significantly, making your soup taste vibrant and delicious.
• Adjust Seasonings: Always taste the soup before serving. You can add more salt, pepper, or spices to suit your preferences.
• Blend for Creaminess: Blending part of the soup creates a thick texture without heavy cream. It’s an excellent way to keep it light and dairy-free.
• Simmer Longer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer helps meld the flavors together, resulting in a richer taste.
• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors will deepen overnight!
• Add Veggies: Feel free to toss in additional vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Tuscan Chicken Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Tuscan chicken soup can elevate your dining experience. Here are some excellent options that complement this comforting meal.

1. Garlic Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables seasoned with garlic provide a nutritious and flavorful side.
2. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
3. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese offers a delightful contrast in texture and adds heartiness.
4. Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous flavored with fresh herbs is an easy side that pairs well with the soup’s bold flavors.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Bell peppers filled with grains, veggies, and spices provide a healthy accompaniment that is filling yet light.
6. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad tossed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon dressing adds brightness to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Tuscan chicken soup, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the sauté step – Sautéing vegetables first builds flavor. Don’t rush this process; it enhances the overall taste.
• Not adjusting seasoning – Every ingredient varies in flavor. Always taste your soup before serving and adjust seasoning as needed.
• Ignoring the blending step – Blending part of the soup creates a creamy texture. If you skip this, your soup may be less satisfying.
• Overcooking the spinach – Adding spinach too early can make it mushy. Add it at the end to maintain its vibrant color and nutrients.
• Not letting it simmer long enough – Allowing the soup to simmer develops depth in flavor. Aim for at least 15 minutes of simmering time.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Let it cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of the container as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake in an oven-safe dish until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat on high in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until hot, approximately 3-5 minutes.
• Stovetop – Heat over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed, about 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Tuscan chicken soup:

What is Tuscan Chicken Soup?

Tuscan chicken soup is a hearty dish made with chicken, vegetables, beans, and seasonings. It’s perfect for chilly days.

Can I use different types of beans?

Yes! While cannellini beans are traditional, you can substitute with navy beans or chickpeas for variety.

How can I make this soup spicier?

To add heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or include diced jalapeños while cooking.

Is Tuscan Chicken Soup gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it does not contain any wheat-based ingredients.

Can I meal prep Tuscan Chicken Soup?

Absolutely! It stores well in both the refrigerator and freezer, making it perfect for meal prepping.

Final Thoughts

Tuscan chicken soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding seasonal vegetables or switching up the beans. This recipe is sure to become a favorite during Fall and Winter—give it a try!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Tuscan Chicken Soup

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Tuscan Chicken Soup is a warm and hearty dish that delights with vibrant flavors and comforting textures. Perfect for chilly evenings, this one-pot wonder combines tender chicken, nutritious vegetables, and protein-packed cannellini beans in a savory broth. Infused with aromatic herbs and sun-dried tomatoes, it delivers a rich taste that warms the soul. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also versatile, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Enjoy it with crusty bread or topped with fresh herbs for an elevated experience. Cozy up with a bowl of this nourishing soup, and let its delightful flavors transport you to the heart of Tuscany.

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Ingredients

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• 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

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Instructions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Sauté diced onion until translucent, then add sliced carrots and minced garlic; cook for another 3 minutes.
3. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and tomato paste; sauté for 1–2 minutes.
4. Add white apple vinegar; simmer until cooked off.
5. Combine chicken broth, cannellini beans, heavy cream, spices, and salt; leave out bay leaves for now.
6. Blend a cup of soup until smooth; return to pot.
7. Add shredded chicken and bay leaves; simmer for at least 15 minutes.
8. Discard bay leaves; stir in spinach until wilted.
9. Adjust seasonings as desired before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 75mg