Tuscan Chicken Soup Recipe

Introduction

Tuscan Chicken Soup is a flavorful, hearty dish that brings together tender chicken, vegetables, and a rich, creamy broth. Inspired by the traditional flavors of Tuscany, this soup is full of rustic ingredients like garlic, kale, and tomatoes, making it a comforting and nourishing meal. The combination of rotisserie chicken, creamy broth, and fresh vegetables creates a soup that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or need a nutritious meal to enjoy on a cold day, this Tuscan Chicken Soup will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. The recipe comes together quickly, especially if you use rotisserie chicken, and is customizable to suit your tastes. With its vibrant flavors and creamy texture, this soup is sure to warm you up and fill you up.

This guide will walk you through each step of the recipe, offer tips for success, and provide fun variations to make this dish your own. By the end, you’ll be ready to prepare a bowl of this comforting soup that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Rich, Savory Flavor: The combination of tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a creamy broth gives this soup a depth of flavor that’s both satisfying and comforting. The garlic, tomatoes, and herbs bring out the traditional Tuscan taste.
• Creamy and Hearty: The creamy broth and tender chicken make this soup incredibly hearty. It’s a perfect dish for cold weather or whenever you’re in need of a filling meal.
• Nutritious and Filling: With ingredients like kale, carrots, and chicken, this soup is packed with vitamins, fiber, and protein. It’s a healthy option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
• Quick and Easy: Using rotisserie chicken speeds up the cooking process, making this soup an excellent choice for busy weeknights. You can still enjoy the rich, homemade flavor without hours of preparation.
• Customizable: The recipe is versatile and can be easily adjusted to suit your tastes. Add more vegetables, adjust the seasoning, or make it spicier for a twist.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 6-8 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 280-320 calories per serving, depending on ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 280-320 kcal
• Fat: 14-18g
• Carbohydrates: 20-24g
• Protein: 20-25g
• Fiber: 3-4g
• Sugar: 4-5g

Ingredients

For the Tuscan Chicken Soup:

• 1 rotisserie chicken, shredded (about 3 cups of chicken)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
• 1 bunch fresh kale, stems removed and leaves chopped (about 4 cups)
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)

Special Equipment

While making Tuscan Chicken Soup doesn’t require specialized tools, a few kitchen items will make the process easier and ensure the best results:

1. Large Soup Pot or Dutch Oven: A heavy-duty pot is ideal for simmering the soup. It distributes heat evenly and allows for proper cooking of the vegetables and chicken.
2. Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: A good spoon or spatula is perfect for stirring the ingredients while sautéing or scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pot.
3. Sharp Knife: A sharp knife makes it easy to dice the onions, carrots, zucchini, and garlic, ensuring uniform cooking.
4. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the right proportions of ingredients, especially when dealing with seasonings and liquids.
5. Ladle: A ladle is ideal for serving the soup into bowls without splashing. It’s especially useful when the soup is hot and ready to serve.
6. Mixing Bowl: A small bowl is helpful for organizing the shredded chicken before adding it to the soup.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Start by shredding the rotisserie chicken. Remove the skin, discard the bones, and pull the meat into bite-sized pieces. This will yield about 3 cups of shredded chicken. Set the chicken aside in a bowl.

Dice the onion, carrots, and zucchini. Mince the garlic and chop the kale into small pieces, removing the tough stems.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Next, add the diced carrots and zucchini to the pot. Stir the vegetables to combine, and let them cook for about 5-6 minutes until they begin to soften.

3. Add the Broth and Tomatoes

Once the vegetables have softened, pour in the chicken broth and the can of diced tomatoes (with their juices). Stir everything to combine, making sure to scrape up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pot.

Add the dried Italian seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) to the pot. Stir again, then bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.

4. Simmer the Soup

Once the soup reaches a boil, reduce the heat to medium-low and let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the vegetables to become tender. Stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom.

5. Add the Kale and Chicken

After the soup has simmered for about 15 minutes, add the chopped kale to the pot. Stir it into the soup and let it cook for another 5 minutes until the kale has wilted down and softened.

Add the shredded rotisserie chicken to the soup. Stir it in, and let the soup simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, ensuring the chicken is heated through.

6. Add the Cream

Pour in the heavy cream, stirring it into the soup. The cream will add a rich, velvety texture to the broth, making it even more comforting and smooth. Let the soup cook for 2-3 more minutes until the cream is fully incorporated and the soup is heated through.

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning, adding salt and pepper to taste. If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can let the soup simmer for a few more minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly.

7. Serve the Soup

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve the soup hot with some crusty bread or crackers on the side for dipping.

Tips for Perfect Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: Using rotisserie chicken makes this recipe much quicker while still delivering that homemade, rich flavor. You can also use leftover chicken from a previous meal.
• Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables, like celery, potatoes, or bell peppers, to suit your preferences. These vegetables will add extra texture and nutrition to the soup.
• Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter soup, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even milk. For a thicker soup, consider adding a slurry made of flour and water to help thicken the broth.
• Add Extra Herbs: Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil work well in this soup. You can add them along with the garlic and onion for extra flavor.
• Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a diced jalapeño to the soup base. This will give it a spicy kick that complements the creamy broth.

Variations of Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Tuscan Chicken Soup with White Beans: Add 1-2 cans of white beans (such as cannellini beans) to the soup for added protein and fiber. The beans will also make the soup heartier.
• Tuscan Chicken Soup with Pesto: Stir in a tablespoon of pesto just before serving for a burst of fresh, herby flavor. This variation adds an extra layer of richness and color to the soup.
• Spicy Tuscan Chicken Soup: Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a diced fresh chili pepper to make this soup spicy. A dash of hot sauce can also provide the heat you crave.
• Dairy-Free Version: If you’re avoiding dairy, replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. You can also use olive oil instead of butter if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
• Tuscan Chicken Soup with Pasta: Add cooked pasta, like ditalini or orzo, to the soup for a heartier dish. The pasta soaks up the flavorful broth, making each bite more filling.

Storage and Shelf Life

Tuscan Chicken Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This soup also freezes well, so you can make a big batch and store some for later. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and warm it on the stove.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Tuscan Chicken Soup

Pair this soup with complementary dishes to enhance the meal:

• Crusty Bread or Garlic Bread: A loaf of freshly baked bread or garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
• Salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup. A Mediterranean salad with olives and feta pairs particularly well with this dish.
• Cheese: Serve the soup with a sprinkle of Parmesan or other hard cheeses for extra flavor. A slice of mozzarella or provolone also works beautifully.
• Grilled Sandwiches: A grilled cheese sandwich or panini can be the perfect accompaniment to this soup, offering a satisfying crunch to complement the creamy soup.

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Conclusion

Tuscan Chicken Soup is the ultimate comfort food, packed with rich flavors, tender chicken, and fresh vegetables. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this soup is sure to please everyone. The combination of hearty ingredients and creamy broth makes it the perfect dish for any season. Try making it today and enjoy the warmth and comfort of this delicious soup!