Description
There’s something deeply comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s rich, hearty, and packed with wholesome ingredients. This Tuscan Chicken Soup is one of those meals that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Bursting with fresh vegetables, tender chicken, and a flavorful broth, it’s the perfect dish to enjoy on a chilly evening, after a long day, or whenever you need something nourishing and satisfying.
Inspired by the rustic flavors of Tuscany, this soup brings together simple ingredients in a way that feels both homey and elegant. The combination of garlic, tomatoes, herbs, and beans gives it a deep, robust flavor, while the chicken adds a hearty protein boost. Best of all, it comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a great option for a quick weeknight dinner without sacrificing taste or quality.
Whether you’re curled up on the couch with a steaming bowl or serving it as a starter for a family meal, this Tuscan Chicken Soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive into how you can make this delicious and comforting dish!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, cooking until they begin to soften, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in the garlic, oregano, basil, thyme, and red pepper flakes, cooking for another minute until fragrant. This step is key—it builds the base flavor of the soup!
Step 2: Add the Broth and Tomatoes
Pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juices, then add the chicken broth. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 3: Add the Chicken and Beans
Stir in the shredded chicken and white beans, letting them warm up in the soup for another 5 minutes. This is where the soup starts to feel heartier, thanks to the protein-rich additions.
Step 4: Stir in the Greens
Add the chopped spinach or kale to the pot, stirring until wilted. This not only adds a lovely pop of color but also boosts the soup’s nutritional value. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Serve with crusty bread for an extra cozy meal.
Notes
- Shredded Chicken Shortcut – If you don’t have pre-cooked chicken on hand, you can quickly cook two chicken breasts by simmering them in chicken broth for about 15 minutes, then shredding them with a fork.
- Adjusting Consistency – If you prefer a thinner soup, add an extra cup of broth. If you like it thicker, let it simmer longer or mash some of the beans.
- Make it Dairy-Free – Simply skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
- Low-Carb Option – This soup is naturally low in carbs, but if you want to make it even more keto-friendly, reduce the amount of beans or replace them with extra chicken and vegetables.
- Serving Ideas – This soup pairs beautifully with a slice of crusty bread, a side salad, or even a simple grilled cheese sandwich for a heartier meal.
- Double the Batch – This soup freezes well, so consider making a double batch and storing some for later!