If you’re on the hunt for a delicious bowl of comforting goodness that tastes like Italy in every spoonful, then this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup Recipe is about to become your new go-to! Packed with tender chicken, vibrant spinach, juicy sun-dried tomatoes, and a luxuriously rich, parmesan-kissed broth, this soup is the dreamy answer to a cozy weeknight dinner—and it comes together in just about half an hour. The perfect harmony of savory flavors and creamy texture makes this dish a showstopper whether you’re serving it to family or just treating yourself.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup Recipe is how it transforms simple, staple ingredients into a pot of bold, colorful flavor. Each item in the lineup brings something special—from creaminess and heat to color and fragrance—ensuring every spoonful is layered and satisfying.
- Olive oil: Adds a subtle fruitiness and helps the onion and chicken brown beautifully.
- Butter: Lends an extra dose of richness that blends perfectly with the creamy base.
- Onion (diced): Sweet and aromatic, onion is the flavorful bedrock of the soup.
- Garlic (minced): Just three cloves give the dish its signature Italian warmth.
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Quick-cooking and lean, these soak up all the Tuscan flavors.
- Italian seasoning: This handy blend gives the soup its classic herbal notes.
- Salt: Brings all the tastes into harmonious balance.
- Black pepper: Adds just the right amount of gentle heat.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For a little kick if you like things spicy.
- Chicken broth: The base that ties all the flavors together—use a good-quality broth for best results.
- Heavy cream: The magic ingredient for a lusciously creamy texture.
- Sun-dried tomatoes (drained and chopped): Bursting with tangy-sweet flavor and beautiful color.
- Baby spinach: Adds freshness and vibrant green to every bowl.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the soup for bold, nutty creaminess.
- Cornstarch (mixed with water, optional): Thickens the soup in a snap if you crave extra creaminess.
How to Make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil and butter together in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the butter has melted and the oil is shimmering, toss in the diced onion. Sauté the onions for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and become translucent. Next, add the minced garlic, letting it cook just 30 seconds more—trust me, you’ll smell that lovely garlicky aroma right away. This foundation fills your kitchen with an Italian-inspired scent that sets the mood for the rest of the dish.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces into the pot along with Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and, if you like a little extra zing, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté everything together, stirring occasionally, so the chicken browns on all sides and picks up those wonderful flavors from the onion and garlic. Continue cooking for about 5 to 6 minutes until the chicken is mostly cooked through—don’t worry, it’ll have more time to simmer and stay juicy!
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let this bubble happily for 10 minutes, which gives the chicken a chance to finish cooking and the broth to soak up the deep, tangy flavor of the tomatoes.
Step 4: Add Creaminess and Greens
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, freshly grated Parmesan, and the baby spinach. Simmer gently for another 5 minutes, letting the spinach wilt and the cheese melt into the broth. The result is a rich, creamy base dotted with vibrant green and ruby-red bursts of tomato.
Step 5: Thicken and Serve
If you like your soup extra thick and cozy, now’s the time to mix the cornstarch with water and stir the slurry into the pot. Cook for 2 to 3 more minutes until the soup reaches your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before ladling it into bowls. Get ready—your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup Recipe is about to steal the show!
How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A finish of grated Parmesan, a scattering of fresh basil, or even a ribbon of extra virgin olive oil makes every bowl look restaurant-worthy. Lemon zest gives a refreshing pop, and a twist of cracked black pepper adds a pretty touch. Don’t forget a warm, crusty baguette for dunking!
Side Dishes
Pair this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup Recipe with a simple tossed green salad, buttery garlic bread, or even roasted vegetables on the side. These accompaniments balance the richness of the soup and stretch your meal to feed a crowd or make a weeknight dinner extra special.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy family dinner, serve the soup in deep bowls with a hunk of rustic bread perched on the side. For an elegant twist, ladle the soup into small cups or mugs for an appetizer course at your next dinner party. Want to wow your guests? Top each bowl with a crispy Parmesan wafer or herbed croutons for texture and visual flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. A quick stir before reheating revives all the textures and creamy consistency.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions or a large freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Because dairy can sometimes separate when frozen, consider adding a splash of fresh cream while reheating to restore its smooth texture. Thaw in the fridge overnight before warming up on the stove.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until hot. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream if the soup thickened in storage. If using a microwave, stir halfway through to ensure even heating. For best flavor, avoid letting it boil rapidly.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut. Add it after the broth and sun-dried tomatoes, simmer briefly to warm through, then finish the recipe as directed.
What substitutions work for the cream?
If you need a dairy-free option, use full-fat coconut milk for a rich texture and mellow, slightly sweet taste. For a lighter version, try half-and-half or evaporated milk.
Can I use kale instead of spinach?
Yes, curly or lacinato (dinosaur) kale makes a delicious swap—simply chop the leaves and let them simmer for a few extra minutes until tender.
How spicy is the soup?
The heat level is entirely up to you. The red pepper flakes are optional, so you can make it as mild or as zesty as your taste buds desire. Start small and add more if you want a bolder kick.
Is the Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup Recipe gluten-free?
Yes! The recipe as written is naturally gluten-free, especially if you skip the optional cornstarch or use a gluten-free brand. Always double-check your chicken broth and Parmesan for hidden gluten sources if you’re cooking for someone with sensitivities.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to try this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup Recipe. Every bite is a celebration of hearty, wholesome flavors that just might become a staple in your kitchen too. Grab your favorite soup bowl and treat yourself—you deserve it!
Print
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup. Loaded with tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and Parmesan in a luscious creamy broth, this soup is a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for any day of the week.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
- 3 cups baby spinach
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons water, optional for thickening)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Step 2: Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the chicken, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Step 3: Cook until the chicken is browned. Pour in the chicken broth and simmer. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Step 4: Reduce heat, stir in cream, Parmesan, and spinach. Cook until spinach wilts and soup is creamy.
- Step 5: For a thicker soup, add cornstarch slurry and cook until thickened. Serve hot with bread.
Notes
- You can substitute rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Kale can be used in place of spinach.
- For a dairy-free option, use full-fat coconut milk and skip the cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 710mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
