This Tuscan Chicken Soup is a warm and hearty dish packed with tender chicken, fresh veggies, and basil. It’s like a cozy hug in a bowl on chilly days!
I love how it’s super easy to toss everything in one pot. Plus, the flavors get better as it simmers—just perfect for meal prep or a family dinner night! 🥣
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: I love using extra virgin olive oil for its fruity flavor. If you’re looking for alternatives, avocado oil or vegetable oil works too in a pinch! They can give a more neutral taste that’s still great.
Chicken Broth: Homemade chicken broth is the best if you have the time, but store-bought versions are fine too! For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth, and it still gives a good base flavor.
Cannellini Beans: These white beans add creaminess and protein. If you’re out, consider using navy beans or chickpeas as substitutes, which will give a different texture but still be tasty.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color and nutrients. If you don’t have fresh, frozen spinach can work too—just thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding it.
Bacon: I think bacon adds a great crunch and flavor! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can skip it or use turkey bacon or smoked paprika for a similar effect without the meat.
How Do You Create Depth of Flavor in the Soup?
Building flavor is key to a great soup, and there are a few steps to make it happen!
- Sauté the Veggies: Start by cooking the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery in olive oil until soft. This process brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth.
- Deglaze with Broth: Once your veggies are ready, pour in the chicken broth. Scraping the bottom of the pot while adding will lift any cooked-on bits and boost the flavor.
- Season Well: Don’t forget to season throughout. Add herbs and spices after broth to let them bloom in flavor. A touch of salt and pepper will go a long way!
- Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer helps meld the flavors together. A good 15-20 minutes on low heat can make all the difference!
By paying attention to these steps, you’ll end up with a deliciously rich Tuscan Chicken Soup that warms your heart!
Tuscan Chicken Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 slices cooked bacon, chopped (optional)
- Crusty bread or toasted baguette slices, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Tuscan Chicken Soup takes about 10 minutes of preparation time and an additional 30 minutes of cooking time. Total, you’ll need around 40 minutes to have a hearty meal ready for you and your loved ones!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions, minced garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté the mixture until the vegetables are soft, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. This step helps build the rich flavor of your soup!
2. Add the Broth:
Next, pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a gentle boil. The broth will serve as the flavorful base for your soup.
3. Add Chicken and Beans:
Once boiling, add the shredded cooked chicken, drained cannellini beans, dried basil, oregano, and thyme. Give everything a good stir and then reduce the heat to let it simmer.
4. Simmer the Soup:
Let the soup gently simmer for about 15 minutes. This will allow all those lovely flavors to blend together beautifully.
5. Finish with Spinach:
Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook until they have wilted down, which should take just about 2-3 minutes. Don’t forget to season the soup with salt and pepper to taste!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle each serving with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped bacon if you’re using it. Serve hot alongside crusty bread or toasted baguette slices for dipping. Enjoy the cozy warmth of your homemade Tuscan Chicken Soup!
This comforting and flavorful bowl of soup is perfect for any occasion where you need a nourishing and delicious meal!
Can I Use Frozen Vegetables in This Soup?
Yes, you can! If you’re short on time, frozen diced carrots and celery make great substitutes. Just add them directly when adding the broth, and they’ll cook down perfectly!
Can I Make This Soup in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the soup a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it on the stove when you’re ready to serve. The flavors will meld even more overnight!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove or microwave it, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily adapt this soup by replacing chicken with cooked chickpeas or tofu and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. It will still be delicious and hearty!
