Tuscan Chicken Soup

This Tuscan Chicken Soup is a delightful blend of flavors, making it an ideal choice for cozy Fall or Winter dinners. Perfect for meal prep, this one-pot wonder is loaded with protein and is friendly to those avoiding dairy. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or sharing with friends at a gathering, this soup stands out for its warmth and heartiness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Cozy and Comforting: This soup warms you up from the inside out, making it perfect for cold days.
• Packed with Flavor: With ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes and fresh herbs, each spoonful bursts with taste.
• Easy to Prepare: Made in just one pot, cleanup is a breeze after enjoying your meal.
• Versatile Meal Prep: Make a double batch to enjoy throughout the week or freeze for later.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Loaded with protein from chicken and fiber from beans, it’s a wholesome choice.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the preparation smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Blender (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering soups evenly and holds all ingredients without spilling.
• Blender: Helps achieve a creamy texture by pureeing part of the soup; optional but recommended for richness.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 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

For the Broth & Beans

• 1/3 cup white apple vinegar
• 4 cups low sodium chicken broth
• 1 15 ounce can cannellini beans (drained and rinsed)

For Creaminess & Seasoning

• 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

For Protein & Greens

• 3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 cups spinach

How to Make Tuscan Chicken Soup

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Add olive oil to a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in sliced carrots and cook for an additional 3 minutes. Finally, add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Stir in diced sun-dried tomatoes and tomato paste, sautéing for about 1-2 minutes to enhance their flavors.

Step 4: Incorporate Vinegar

Pour in white apple vinegar and let it simmer until most of the liquid has cooked off, enriching the dish’s flavor profile.

Step 5: Combine Broth & Beans

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

Step 6: Blend for Creaminess

Mix everything well. Optionally scoop about 1 cup of soup into a blender. Blend until smooth before returning it to the pot to thicken.

Step 7: Simmer with Chicken

Add shredded chicken along with bay leaves. Allow the soup to simmer for at least 15 minutes so all flavors meld beautifully.

Step 8: Final Touches

Remove bay leaves. Stir in spinach until wilted. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. If desired, add more chicken broth for a thinner consistency.

Step 9: Garnish & Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley or red pepper flakes if you like some heat. Enjoy your delicious Tuscan Chicken Soup!

How to Serve Tuscan Chicken Soup

Serving Tuscan chicken soup can enhance its delicious flavors and make it a comforting meal. Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: Serve slices of a warm, crusty baguette for dipping.
• Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread pairs well with the soup’s rich flavors.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Basil Leaves: Add whole basil leaves for an aromatic touch.

Accompanied by a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad complements the soup well and adds crunch.
• Mixed Greens: Light mixed greens with a vinaigrette balance the hearty soup.

With Cheese Garnish

• Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh parmesan over the top for a savory finish.
• Dairy-Free Cheese: For a dairy-free option, use shredded plant-based cheese.

How to Perfect Tuscan Chicken Soup

Perfecting Tuscan chicken soup can elevate your cooking skills and satisfy your taste buds. Here are some handy tips.

• Use Quality Broth: A rich, low-sodium chicken broth enhances flavor without adding too much salt.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste the soup as you cook, adjusting spices and salt to suit your palate.
• Add Veggies: Incorporate seasonal vegetables like zucchini or kale for added nutrition and texture.
• Blend for Creaminess: Blending part of the soup creates a creamy consistency without compromising healthiness.
• Let it Sit: Allowing the soup to sit for a bit before serving lets flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Tuscan Chicken Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Tuscan chicken soup can create a complete meal. Here are some delightful options.

1. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter are perfect for dipping in the soup.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic make a refreshing side.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrients to your meal.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers and lemon dressing complements the rich flavors of the soup.
5. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delicious contrast to the savory soup.
6. Rice Pilaf: Lightly seasoned rice pilaf offers a fluffy texture that pairs nicely with chicken soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your Tuscan chicken soup to the next level. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using low-quality broth: The broth is the backbone of your soup. Choose a low sodium, high-quality chicken broth for the best flavor.
• Skipping the blending step: Blending a portion of the soup adds creaminess and thickness. Don’t skip this step if you want a more luxurious texture!
• Overcooking spinach: Spinach wilts quickly. Add it at the end to retain its vibrant color and nutrients.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Tasting as you go is crucial. Adjust salt, pepper, and spices to suit your palate for a well-balanced flavor.
• Not allowing enough simmer time: Letting the soup simmer for at least 15 minutes helps meld the flavors. Patience pays off in taste!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until hot throughout (usually about 2-3 minutes).
• Stovetop: Simmer over medium heat until heated, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Tuscan chicken soup:

What makes Tuscan Chicken Soup unique?

Tuscan chicken soup combines rich flavors from sun-dried tomatoes, herbs, and beans. It’s a comforting dish that highlights Italian-inspired ingredients.

Can I customize my Tuscan Chicken Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like zucchini or kale, or swap out proteins such as turkey or beef for variety.

How can I thicken my Tuscan Chicken Soup?

Blending part of the soup is an excellent way to thicken it naturally. You can also add more beans or use plant-based gelling agents if desired.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This Tuscan chicken soup stores well and can easily be made ahead of time, making it perfect for meal prepping.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Certainly! Replace chicken with chickpeas or lentils and use vegetable broth along with your favorite vegetables for a vegetarian version.

Final Thoughts

This Tuscan chicken soup is not only delicious but also versatile. Perfect for cozy fall and winter evenings, it allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its heartwarming flavors!

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: 6 servings 1x

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Description

Warm up with this hearty Tuscan Chicken Soup, a comforting dish brimming with vibrant Italian flavors. Perfect for cozy fall and winter evenings, this one-pot meal combines tender shredded chicken, creamy beans, and the rich taste of sun-dried tomatoes. It’s not only delicious but also packed with protein and fiber, making it a nutritious choice for any dinner table. Ideal for meal prep, you can easily make a double batch to enjoy throughout the week or freeze leftovers for later. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Sauté diced onion until softened, then add sliced carrots and cook for an additional 3 minutes.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
4. Add sun-dried tomatoes and tomato paste; sauté for 1-2 minutes.
5. Pour in white apple vinegar and let simmer until reduced.
6. Add chicken broth, cannellini beans, heavy cream, thyme, oregano, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (leave out bay leaves).
7. Mix well; optionally blend part of the soup for creaminess.
8. Stir in shredded chicken and bay leaves; simmer for at least 15 minutes.
9. Remove bay leaves; stir in spinach until wilted.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fiber: 7g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 70mg