Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Delicious creamy Tuscan chicken soup served in a bowl with fresh herbs.

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup


Warm and comforting, Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is a delightful meal that captures the essence of Italian cuisine in a bowl. Loaded with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a rich, creamy flavor, this soup is perfect for those chilly days when you need something hearty and satisfying. It brings together a symphony of flavors that can make any dinner feel special.

Why Make This Recipe

There are many reasons to make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup. First, it’s a one-pot meal, which means less cleanup after cooking! Second, you can enjoy a balanced dish that includes protein, vegetables, and carbs all in one serving. Plus, it’s simple to make, even for beginner cooks. The blend of creamy texture and savory ingredients offers a tasty treat for your taste buds. Whether for a family dinner or a cozy lunch, this soup is always a winner.

How to Make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Making Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is straightforward. Follow these easy steps, and in no time, you will have a delicious meal ready to enjoy.

Ingredients:

  • 500 g/1 lb chicken thighs (skinless boneless, Note 1 for breast)
  • 1/2 tsp each salt and pepper
  • 30 g / 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 onion (finely chopped)
  • 2 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 2 large celery stems (finely sliced; can substitute with 2 carrots)
  • 1/2 cup chardonnay (or other dry white wine, optional, Note 2)
  • 4 cups chicken stock/broth (low sodium)
  • 3 cups water
  • 1 tsp cooking/kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 250 g/8 oz small pasta shells (or other small pasta, rice, or potatoes, see Note 3)
  • 1 cup (tightly packed) parmesan (finely grated or store-bought pre-grated, Note 4)
  • 1 cup thickened/heavy cream (Note 5 for milk sub)
  • 2 packed cups baby spinach (or chopped kale)
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomato strips (chopped into 1 cm pieces, plus a bit of oil for drizzling, Note 6)
  • 2 tsp cornflour/cornstarch mixed with 2 tsp water

Directions:

  1. Cook chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Melt butter in a large pot over medium-high heat. Place the chicken in the pot and cook for about 3 minutes on one side until it’s golden. Flip and cook for another 2 minutes. It’s okay if the chicken is still raw inside as it will cook later. Remove it from the pot.

  2. Soup flavor base: Lower the heat to medium-low. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and celery to the pot. Cook for about 3 minutes until the onion softens.

  3. Deglaze: Turn the heat back up high. Pour in the wine and let it simmer until it reduces by half.

  4. Broth & pasta: Add the chicken stock, water, salt, and pepper. Bring it to a boil and then add the pasta. Cook according to package instructions (about 10 minutes), stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

  5. Add chicken partway: While the pasta is cooking, chop the previously cooked chicken into small pieces and add it back to the pot to finish cooking.

  6. Finish soup: Once the pasta is cooked, lower the heat. Stir in the parmesan until melted, and add the cornflour-water mixture, cream, and spinach. Stir for a minute until the spinach wilts and the soup thickens slightly.

  7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, sprinkling sun-dried tomato strips on top. Add a drizzle of oil for a finishing touch. Enjoy your meal!

  8. Storing: If you have leftovers, separate the pasta from the soup to avoid bloating. Refrigerate both.

How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup hot in bowls, garnished with a sprinkle of sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor and color. Pair it with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.

How to Store Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

For storing, it’s best to separate the pasta from the soup to keep the pasta from soaking up too much broth and getting mushy. Use airtight containers to refrigerate both components. They will keep well in the fridge for up to three days.

Tips to Make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

  • For more flavor, add Italian seasoning or herbs like basil and thyme.
  • Feel free to swap out pasta for rice or even potatoes if desired.
  • Use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken to save cooking time.

Variation

For a lighter version of this soup, substitute the heavy cream with low-fat milk or a dairy-free alternative. Add more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrition.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use skinless boneless chicken breast if you prefer leaner meat. However, chicken thighs tend to add more flavor due to their higher fat content.

Is it possible to make this soup in advance?

Absolutely! You can make the soup in advance, just remember to store the pasta separately to prevent it from getting soggy.

What can I use instead of wine?

If you would rather not use wine, you can replace it with additional chicken broth or a splash of lemon juice for brightness.

Creating this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is a simple way to bring comfort and joy to your dining table. Give it a try, and enjoy every spoonful!

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