Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup Recipe

If you’re longing for a comforting, one-pot wonder that blends rich Italian flavors with a dreamy, velvety finish, this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is about to become your new cold-weather craving! Packed with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and swirls of parmesan and cream, every spoonful is pure Mediterranean sunshine—no passport required.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This ingredient list is all about simple steps with maximum payoff—each component brings something special, from the savory depth of chicken to the vivid tang of sundried tomatoes and the irresistible creaminess that defines Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup. Don’t skip the parmesan or that final flourish of spinach—they’re what make this soup sing!

• Olive oil: Just a teaspoon helps brown the chicken, infusing your base with subtle richness.
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Use whichever you prefer—thighs are extra juicy, while breasts keep things lean and clean.
• Italian seasoning (divided): This blend of herbs delivers classic Tuscan aroma and flavor right from the start and again when simmering the pasta.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for drawing out every savory note; season generously to taste.
• Diced carrots, celery, and onions: This trio is the heart of every cozy soup, lending sweetness, earthiness, and a hearty foundation.
• Sundried tomatoes: These add pops of bright, tangy flavor and a gorgeous color contrast to your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup.
• Garlic cloves (minced): The magic ingredient that takes the whole pot to the next level.
• Flour: Sprinkled in to gently thicken the broth without overdoing it—add in stages for best texture.
• Tomato paste (optional): A little goes a long way; use it for a deeper, tomato-forward undertone.
• Chicken broth: Start with 6 cups (add more if you love a brothier soup). This is your savory canvas!
• Small pasta shells: I used Italian shells for their chewy texture and adorable look, but any small pasta shape will do.
• Heavy whipping cream: Just a splash for that signature creaminess—trust me, it’s worth every spoonful.
• Parmesan Reggiano cheese (grated): Nutty, salty, and the secret to turning good soup into irresistible soup.
• Fresh spinach: Tossed in at the end for a burst of green and a dose of extra nutrition.

Variations

The beauty of Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is how effortlessly it bends to what you have on hand or what you’re craving. Try one of these fun twists to make it your own while still capturing those signature Tuscan flavors.

• Make It Low-Carb: Swap the pasta shells for cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles if you want a lighter (but still satisfying) option.
• Dairy-Free Delight: Use unsweetened coconut milk or your favorite plant-based cream, and leave out or replace the parmesan.
• Swap in Sausage: Crumbled Italian sausage is a fantastic substitute for chicken, adding a bolder, heartier vibe to your soup.
• Try Kale Instead of Spinach: Tuscan kale holds up beautifully to simmering and offers a slightly rustic chew.

How to Make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Step 1: Brown the Chicken

Heat your olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and season with half of your Italian seasoning, plus a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté until the chicken is golden and just cooked through—about 4-5 minutes. The secret here is getting a bit of color, which will add so much savory depth!

Step 2: Build the Veggie Base

Without removing the chicken, add in those classic soup veggies—onion, carrots, celery—followed by sundried tomatoes and garlic. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is soft and fragrant. Breathe in that aroma—it’s already tasting like Tuscany!

Step 3: Thicken and Season

Sprinkle the flour evenly across the pot, stirring as you go to prevent any lumps. Now’s the moment for tomato paste if you’re using it—stir in for an extra layer of umami. This step thickens your soup just enough for that signature creamy texture.

Step 4: Add Broth and Pasta

Slowly pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom for pure flavor gold. Bring to a rolling boil and then add your pasta, the rest of your Italian seasoning, plus extra salt and pepper as needed. Lower the heat, cover, and let everything simmer gently for about 20 minutes, until the chicken is tender and the pasta is perfectly al dente.

Step 5: Finish With Cream and Greens

Lift the lid and pour in your heavy cream, grated parmesan, and generous handfuls of fresh spinach. Let the soup bubble for another 5 minutes until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts into that gorgeous, creamy broth. Taste and adjust seasonings one last time before serving.

How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Garnishes

A flurry of extra parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh basil or cracked black pepper right before serving make this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup extra inviting. For added flair, a swirl of olive oil makes each bowl look restaurant-worthy!

Side Dishes

This soup absolutely loves the company of a warm, crusty baguette or a hunk of toasted sourdough—perfect for dunking. Add a crisp Italian salad or garlic breadsticks for a cozy, complete meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a memorable family dinner or guests, try serving Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup in rustic soup bowls with a drizzle of herbed oil on top. Or, ladle it into mini mugs for a comforting appetizer at a fall or winter gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer leftover Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup to airtight containers and keep it in the fridge for up to four days. The flavors deepen beautifully as it sits—sometimes soup the next day is even better!

Freezing

Creamy soups can be tricky to freeze, but if you want to make a batch ahead, skip adding the cream and spinach; freeze up to three months. Add the cream and spinach when reheating for the best texture and color.

Reheating

Gently reheat Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup on the stove over medium-low, stirring occasionally. If it thickens too much, add a splash of broth or milk and stir well to bring back its original silky consistency.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup will quickly win over everyone at your table, from picky kids to food-loving adults. It’s the kind of bowl that feels special enough for a gathering, but simple enough to make on any weeknight. Give it a try—and don’t be surprised if it becomes your go-to comfort dish all season long!

Print