Tuscan Chicken Soup — Full Detailed Recipe
Description
Tuscan Chicken Soup is a rich, creamy, and comforting Italian-inspired soup made with tender chicken, garlic, onions, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, herbs, and a touch of cream. It’s hearty yet fresh, perfect for cozy dinners while still feeling light and nourishing. This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or garlic toast.
Time Required
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4–5 people
Ingredients
For the Soup Base:
2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 medium carrot, diced
1 celery stalk, chopped (optional)
500 g (1 lb) boneless chicken breast or thighs, cubed
1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
½ tsp black pepper
Flavor & Creamy Body:
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp chili flakes (optional)
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, sliced
4 cups chicken broth (or water + 1 cube)
1 cup cooking cream or fresh cream
½ cup grated parmesan (optional but recommended)
Greens:
2 cups fresh spinach (or kale)
Optional Add-ins:
½ cup cooked pasta or potato cubes
½ cup mushrooms, sliced
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Base
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, and celery. Cook for 4–5 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Add chicken pieces, salt, and pepper. Stir and cook for 6–8 minutes until chicken turns white and lightly golden.
Step 3: Boost the Flavor
Add oregano, Italian seasoning, paprika, chili flakes, and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 4: Add Broth
Pour in chicken broth. Bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
Step 5: Make It Creamy
Stir in cream and parmesan cheese. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes.
Step 6: Add Spinach
Add spinach and cook for 1–2 minutes until wilted.
Step 7: Taste & Serve
Adjust salt and pepper. Serve hot with bread or toast.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with garlic bread, naan, or dinner rolls
Add a side salad for a complete meal
Sprinkle extra parmesan on top
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
Can I use milk instead of cream?
Yes, but use full-fat milk and add 1 teaspoon cornstarch for thickness.
Can I make it without sun-dried tomatoes?
Yes, but sun-dried tomatoes give signature Tuscan flavor. You may replace with fresh cherry tomatoes.
Is this soup spicy?
Mild by default. Chili flakes are optional and adjustable.
Can I freeze Tuscan Chicken Soup?
Yes, but add cream after reheating for best texture.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes!
Cook on Low for 5 hours
Add cream and spinach in the final 20 minutes
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes! Replace cream with coconut milk and skip the parmesan.
Pro Tips
Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness
Add white beans for extra protein
Fresh basil at the end adds beautiful aroma