This Tuscan Chicken Soup is rich, creamy, and packed with wholesome ingredients. The shredded rotisserie chicken pairs perfectly with a broth made from aromatic herbs, vegetables, and creamy textures, giving the soup a comforting, satisfying feel.
The addition of baby spinach gives it a pop of color and freshness, balancing the rich, creamy base. Whether you’re cooking on a busy weeknight or hosting a cozy gathering, this soup comes together in just 30 minutes and is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.
Full Recipe:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup baby spinach, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.
- Add minced garlic, oregano, and basil, and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes, bringing the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Stir in the shredded rotisserie chicken and heavy cream. Simmer for another 5 minutes, then add chopped spinach. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Tuscan Chicken Soup: A Comforting Classic
Tuscan Chicken Soup is a hearty, creamy dish that combines a rich blend of vegetables, rotisserie chicken, and fragrant herbs in a smooth, comforting broth. Originating from the beautiful region of Tuscany in Italy, this dish has become a staple in many homes due to its satisfying flavors and ease of preparation. It perfectly blends the rustic flavors of Tuscany with the convenience of modern cooking, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner.
The Origins of Tuscan Chicken Soup
Tuscany is renowned for its agricultural abundance, and traditional Tuscan cuisine often revolves around using simple, fresh ingredients to create robust flavors. While chicken soup itself isn’t unique to Tuscany, the addition of local ingredients such as herbs like basil and oregano, vegetables like carrots and celery, and the use of creamy broths, all add to its character and make it a distinct version. This soup is a perfect example of Italian “cucina povera,” or “poor cooking,” which emphasizes using humble ingredients in creative ways to make a satisfying and nourishing meal. Over time, the dish has evolved to incorporate a creamy texture, making it suitable for modern palates while still honoring its rustic roots.
The Key Ingredients in Tuscan Chicken Soup
What makes Tuscan Chicken Soup stand out is its balance of flavors and textures. The combination of vegetables like carrots, onions, and celery adds natural sweetness and depth to the broth, while the rotisserie chicken provides a savory, rich flavor. The addition of heavy cream or sometimes a bit of half-and-half gives the soup a velvety texture that’s both comforting and indulgent. The fresh baby spinach, added near the end of cooking, brings brightness to the dish and offers a slight earthiness that complements the richness of the soup. Finally, the seasonings—oregano, basil, and garlic—offer a flavorful depth that rounds out the dish perfectly.
Nutritional Benefits of Tuscan Chicken Soup
Tuscan Chicken Soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. The rotisserie chicken provides a good source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. The vegetables add an array of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A from the carrots and vitamin C from the spinach. The use of olive oil, a staple in Mediterranean diets, adds heart-healthy fats that can help lower cholesterol levels. While the soup’s creamy base does add a level of richness, using heavy cream in moderation ensures that the soup remains flavorful without being excessively heavy.
For those looking to reduce their calorie intake, there are simple substitutions you can make, such as using a lighter cream or substituting the cream entirely with coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Additionally, the soup is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Variations of Tuscan Chicken Soup
One of the beauties of Tuscan Chicken Soup is its versatility. While the traditional recipe is simple, there are countless ways to customize it to suit your tastes or dietary needs. For example, some versions of the soup may include white beans, which add an extra layer of protein and fiber, making the soup even more filling and nutritious. You could also swap out the baby spinach for kale or Swiss chard to create a different texture and flavor profile.
If you’re looking for a slightly lighter version, consider reducing the amount of cream or using a lower-fat alternative like Greek yogurt, which still provides creaminess but with added protein. For those who love a bit of heat, you could toss in some red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to spice up the soup.
Another great variation is to use fresh chicken breasts instead of rotisserie chicken for a more hands-on approach. You can cook the chicken in the broth for added flavor and shred it yourself. The result is just as delicious, and it allows you to control the texture and seasoning more precisely.
Serving Suggestions
Tuscan Chicken Soup is perfect on its own, but it can also be paired with a variety of sides to make for a more complete meal. A slice of warm, crusty Italian bread is an excellent accompaniment, perfect for dipping into the creamy broth. A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette can also balance out the richness of the soup, offering a refreshing contrast. You could also serve the soup alongside a simple pasta dish, such as spaghetti aglio e olio, for a satisfying meal that showcases the flavors of Italy.
For a cozy dinner, serve the soup in individual bowls with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top for an added savory element. A drizzle of olive oil and a few fresh basil leaves can further elevate the presentation and flavor of the dish.
How to Make It Ahead and Store It
One of the advantages of making Tuscan Chicken Soup is that it stores beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep or leftovers. To make it ahead, simply prepare the soup as directed and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld together, making the soup even more flavorful the next day.
If you want to store the soup for a longer period, you can freeze it. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it into freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Conclusion
Tuscan Chicken Soup is a comforting, flavorful dish that brings the taste of Italy to your home. With its rich, creamy texture, hearty vegetables, and tender chicken, it’s the perfect meal for any time of year, whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. This soup is easy to make, customizable, and packed with nutrients, making it both a delicious and wholesome choice. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a fresh salad and crusty bread, Tuscan Chicken Soup is sure to become a family favorite.
By making a few small tweaks, you can adapt this recipe to fit your personal preferences, dietary restrictions, or what you have on hand in your kitchen. Regardless of how you prepare it, this soup is guaranteed to warm your heart and fill your stomach with satisfaction. So why not give it a try and indulge in the flavors of Tuscany?