Tuscan Chicken Soup

This Tuscan chicken soup is a delightful and comforting dish perfect for chilly Fall or Winter evenings. Packed with vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients, it serves as an ideal meal for cozy family dinners or meal prep for busy weeks ahead. With its creamy texture and hearty components, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy One-Pot Meal: Prepare this delicious soup all in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, herbs, and spices creates a rich flavor profile that will warm you from the inside out.
• Healthy Ingredients: This soup is loaded with protein from chicken and beans, making it a satisfying choice that won’t weigh you down.
• Versatile Options: Feel free to customize the recipe by adding vegetables or using different types of beans!
• Dairy-Free Option: Made with non-dairy cream options, it’s perfect for those avoiding dairy.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather some essential tools to streamline your cooking process. Having the right equipment can make all the difference in achieving a delicious Tuscan chicken soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Blender (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering soups evenly without burning.
• Blender: Helps achieve that creamy texture by blending part of the soup; optional but recommended for best results.

Ingredients

This Tuscan chicken soup is packed with vibrant flavors, making it a perfect cozy dinner option.

For the 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 Soup

• 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)

For Seasoning

• 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 Serving

• 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 the olive oil and heat over medium heat until shimmering.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Carrots

Add in the diced onion:
1. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent.
2. Stir in the sliced carrots and continue to sauté for an additional 3 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Incorporate Tomatoes

Add in the sun-dried tomatoes:
– Stir in the tomato paste and sauté for another 1-2 minutes.

Step 4: Add Vinegar

Pour in white apple vinegar:
– Let it simmer until most of the vinegar cooks off, enhancing flavor without any alcohol presence.

Step 5: Combine Broth and Beans

Now add:
– Chicken broth, cannellini beans, heavy cream, spices, salt, and pepper. Leave out bay leaves for now.

Step 6: Blend for Creaminess

Stir everything together:
– Scoop out about 1 cup of the mixture into a blender. Blend until smooth then pour back into the pot to thicken.

Step 7: Simmer with Chicken

Add shredded rotisserie chicken along with bay leaves:
– Let simmer for at least 15 minutes so all flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 8: Finish with Spinach

Discard bay leaves:
– Add fresh spinach to wilt into the hot soup. Adjust seasoning as needed. If preferred thinner, add more chicken broth.

Serve hot garnished with fresh parsley or your favorite toppings! Enjoy your comforting bowl of Tuscan Chicken Soup!

How to Serve Tuscan Chicken Soup

Serving Tuscan Chicken Soup can elevate your dining experience. Here are some delightful ideas to enhance this cozy dish.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Freshly baked baguette or sourdough bread makes for perfect dipping. The crust adds a lovely texture to each bite.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil on top for a burst of freshness. This adds both flavor and color to the soup.

Add a Dash of Spice

• For those who enjoy a kick, add red pepper flakes or hot sauce. This will give the soup an exciting heat level.

Serve with a Side Salad

• A simple green salad balances the richness of the soup. Consider arugula or mixed greens dressed lightly with vinaigrette.

Create a Garnish Station

• Offer toppings like avocado slices, croutons, or dairy-free cheese. Guests can customize their bowls according to their preferences.

How to Perfect Tuscan Chicken Soup

Perfecting Tuscan Chicken Soup is easy with these simple tips for enhancing flavor and texture.

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: This saves time and adds rich flavor without much effort.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and herbs based on personal preference.
• Blend for Creaminess: Blending part of the soup gives it a creamy texture without adding extra calories.
• Add More Veggies: For added nutrition, include other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
• Control Thickness: If you prefer a thinner soup, gradually add more chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days for optimal freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Tuscan Chicken Soup

Pairing side dishes with Tuscan Chicken Soup can create a complete meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: This classic choice complements the flavors of the soup beautifully. Toast slices of bread spread with garlic butter until golden brown.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with creamy dressing and croutons provides crunch and contrast to the warm soup.
3. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella (or plant-based alternatives), and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make for refreshing bites.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, or cauliflower add color and nutrients to the meal.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, bell peppers, and lemon dressing offers a healthy side that’s filling yet fresh.
6. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese creates a comforting side that pairs well with soup flavors.
7. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with rice, beans, and spices provide hearty satisfaction alongside your soup.
8. Zucchini Fritters: Crispy fritters made from grated zucchini and chickpea flour offer a fun finger food option that complements the main dish perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Tuscan chicken soup, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the sauté step: Not sautéing the vegetables can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Always take time to sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: The flavors can change as the soup simmers. Taste your soup before serving and adjust seasonings like salt and pepper as needed.
• Using low-quality broth: A weak broth will result in a bland soup. Opt for a good-quality low sodium chicken broth for rich flavor.
• Overcooking spinach: Adding spinach too early or cooking it too long can make it wilted and unappealing. Stir it in at the end and let it wilt gently.
• Neglecting to blend some of the soup: Skipping the blending step means missing out on a creamy texture. Blending a portion helps thicken the soup beautifully.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Tuscan Chicken Soup

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

Reheating Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm on medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Tuscan chicken soup that may help you further.

What is Tuscan Chicken Soup?

Tuscan chicken soup is a hearty dish made with tender chicken, vegetables, beans, and spices that reflect traditional Tuscan flavors.

Can I customize my Tuscan Chicken Soup?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables like zucchini or kale, or substitute turkey for chicken depending on your preference.

How do I make Tuscan Chicken Soup dairy-free?

Simply use non-dairy cream alternatives such as coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version.

What sides pair well with Tuscan Chicken Soup?

This flavorful soup pairs nicely with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even some garlic bread for dipping.

Final Thoughts

Tuscan chicken soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the spices. It’s perfect for cozy evenings and meal prep. Give it a try and enjoy its rich 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: Serves 6

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Description

Warm up with this flavorful Tuscan Chicken Soup, a comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings. This one-pot meal is brimming with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and protein-packed beans, making it a nourishing choice for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. With a creamy texture and rich flavor profile from sun-dried tomatoes and herbs, this soup will quickly become a family favorite. Plus, it’s easy to customize by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spices to suit your taste.

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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. Sauté diced onion until translucent.
2. Add sliced carrots and minced garlic; cook until fragrant.
3. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and tomato paste; sauté for a couple of minutes.
4. Pour in white apple vinegar and let simmer briefly.
5. Add chicken broth, cannellini beans, cream, and seasonings; mix well.
6. Blend about 1 cup of the soup until smooth to enhance creaminess, then return to the pot.
7. Incorporate shredded chicken and bay leaves; let simmer for 15 minutes.
8. Remove bay leaves and stir in fresh spinach until wilted.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: One-Pot
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 345
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 27g
• Cholesterol: 60mg