This Tuscan Chicken Soup is a warm, cozy dish packed with chicken, veggies, and hearty beans. It’s like a hug in a bowl on chilly days!
Once you try it, you’ll find yourself wanting to make it all the time. I love serving it with some crusty bread for dunking. It’s simply the best! 🥖
Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: A staple for sautéing, olive oil adds great flavor. If you need a substitute, avocado oil works well and has a high smoke point. Both have a nice, mild taste.
Chicken Broth: For a richer flavor, you can use homemade chicken broth if you have it. If you’re in a pinch, vegetable broth can work too, just note it will slightly change the taste.
White Beans: Cannellini beans are my favorite for this dish because of their creamy texture. You can swap them with chickpeas or navy beans if needed. Lentils could also work as a protein source!
Fresh Spinach: Spinach gives a gorgeous green color and nutrients. If you don’t have it on hand, kale or Swiss chard can be great alternatives. Just make sure to chop them a bit more as they can be heartier.
Half-and-Half or Heavy Cream: If you’re looking for a lighter version, try using milk or a plant-based cream alternative. Almond or oat milk can work too, though it may alter the flavor slightly.
How Can I Make Sure My Vegetables Are Perfectly Sautéed?
Sautéing the vegetables correctly is key to building flavor in your soup. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a large pot and use medium heat to avoid burning the ingredients.
- Add olive oil, then toss in onions and garlic first. They need a bit more time to soften.
- After a few minutes, add carrots and celery, stirring occasionally. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
- Only when the veggies are tender should you add herbs. Cooking them briefly releases their essential oils and maximizes flavor.
Don’t rush this step! Your soup will taste so much better with well-cooked veggies.
Tuscan Chicken Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans (such as cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped
- 4 cups fresh spinach (or kale), roughly chopped
- 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- Cooked and crumbled bacon or pancetta, for garnish (optional)
- Crusty toasted bread, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Tuscan Chicken Soup takes about 15 minutes to prep and about 30 minutes of cooking time, making a total of approximately 45 minutes from start to finish. It’s perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add in the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and sliced celery. Cook while stirring occasionally for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent. This creates a great base for the soup!
2. Add the Herbs:
Next, stir in the dried oregano, basil, and thyme. Let these herbs cook with the vegetables for about 1 minute. This helps to release their flavors into the pot, making the soup aromatic and delicious.
3. Let It Simmer:
Now it’s time to add the chicken broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook gently for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Add the Chicken and Beans:
After simmering, add the drained and rinsed white beans, the chopped cooked chicken, and the fresh spinach. Continue to simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the spinach is wilted and everything is heated through.
5. Creamy Finish:
Stir in the half-and-half or cream and the grated Parmesan cheese. Cook for another 3-5 minutes until the soup is warmed through and slightly thickened. Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference.
6. Serve It Up:
Your Tuscan Chicken Soup is ready! Ladle it into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and crumbled bacon or pancetta, if desired. This adds a lovely salty crunch. Serve hot with crusty toasted bread for dipping.
This Tuscan Chicken Soup is a creamy, flavorful dish featuring tender chicken, hearty beans, fresh greens, and a touch of savory cheese and bacon, perfect for a nourishing meal. Enjoy your cozy bowl of warmth!
Can I Use Fresh Chicken Instead of Cooked Chicken?
Absolutely! If you prefer using fresh chicken, simply add diced raw chicken breast after sautéing the vegetables. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink, then proceed with the recipe by adding the broth and continuing as directed.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
To make this soup vegetarian, substitute the chicken with extra white beans or cooked lentils for protein. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and skip the bacon or pancetta garnish.
Can I Freeze Leftover Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then store it in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if necessary to loosen the consistency.
What Bread Pairs Best with Tuscan Chicken Soup?
A rustic, crusty bread such as sourdough or ciabatta is perfect for dipping in this soup! You can also use garlic bread to add extra flavor.
