If you are craving a bowl of comfort that warms you from the inside out while bursting with vibrant flavors, this Hearty Chicken Tuscan Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. Loaded with tender chicken thighs, creamy white beans, fresh veggies, and just the right touch of Italian seasoning, this soup manages to be both nourishing and utterly delicious. Every spoonful delivers a perfect harmony of textures and tastes, making it an ideal meal for cozy nights or anytime you want to impress with something wholesome yet simple.
Ingredients You'll Need
The magic behind this Hearty Chicken Tuscan Soup Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Each item plays a pivotal role, adding depth, richness, or brightness that elevates the soup beyond ordinary.
- Boneless skinless chicken thighs (1 pound): These provide juicy, tender meat with rich flavor that stays moist during simmering.
- White beans, canned (2 cans, 15 ounces each): They add creaminess and protein, creating a satisfying texture throughout the soup.
- Diced tomatoes, canned (1 can, 14 ounces): Bringing a fresh, slightly tangy brightness and a splash of color.
- Carrots, diced (2 medium): Sweetness and a bit of crunch balance the savory elements perfectly.
- Celery stalks, diced (2): Contributes subtle earthiness and a tender bite.
- Yellow onion, finely chopped (1 medium): Builds a savory foundation and aroma that comforts the senses.
- Garlic cloves, minced (3): Adds fragrant warmth and a slight kick.
- Chicken broth (4 cups): The flavorful base that brings all ingredients together beautifully.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Enhances richness and helps soften the veggies while cooking.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): An aromatic blend that defines the Tuscan flavor profile.
- Salt (1 teaspoon or to taste): Essential to balance all the flavors harmoniously.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds a gentle heat that awakens the palate.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (2 tablespoons): For a burst of fresh, herbaceous brightness right before serving.
How to Make Hearty Chicken Tuscan Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by heating olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. This gentle heat releases the oil’s fruity notes and creates a perfect base for the vegetables. Add the finely chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery to the pot and cook for about 5 minutes until they soften and their natural sweetness emerges. Toss in the minced garlic last and cook just 30 seconds until it’s fragrant but not browned — this step is key to layering the soup’s flavor.
Step 2: Add Chicken and Broth
Now, gently place the boneless skinless chicken thighs into the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and canned diced tomatoes, stirring carefully so everything mingles without shredding the chicken just yet. This combination of juicy chicken and rich broth starts building the heartiness that defines the Hearty Chicken Tuscan Soup Recipe.
Step 3: Incorporate Beans and Seasonings
Drain and rinse the white beans before adding them to the pot. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper, stirring to combine. These seasonings bring the authentic Tuscan vibe, lifting every ingredient with a warm, balanced spice blend. At this point, the soup is ready to slowly simmer to develop those comforting flavors we've all come to love.
Step 4: Simmer Until Tender
Bring the soup up to a gentle simmer, then partially cover the pot. Let it cook for about 25 minutes, during which the chicken becomes tender and fully cooked. This slow simmer allows the flavors to marry and deepen, ensuring each bite of this soup delivers maximum satisfaction.
Step 5: Shred and Finish
Carefully remove the chicken thighs from the pot and shred them using two forks—this step is where the soup gets that irresistible, tender texture. Return the shredded chicken to the soup, stir in the chopped fresh parsley, and taste for seasoning adjustments. A final stir incorporates that bright, herbaceous note that completes this hearty Tuscan delight.
Step 6: Serve Warm
Ladle the soup into bowls and serve immediately, letting the inviting aroma and cozy warmth envelope you and your guests. This soup truly shines when it’s enjoyed fresh, embodying the comforting spirit of Tuscan home cooking.
How to Serve Hearty Chicken Tuscan Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Top each bowl with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil for an added layer of richness. A few torn basil leaves or extra chopped parsley also make wonderful, fresh garnishes that brighten each spoonful.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty artisan bread, perfect for dipping and soaking up that flavorful broth. A simple green salad with a light lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast that balances the soup’s heartiness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the soup in rustic bread bowls to impress guests with both flavor and style. Alternatively, topping with crunchy garlic croutons or a swirl of pesto can add delightful contrasts in texture and flavor, enhancing the overall experience of the Hearty Chicken Tuscan Soup Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld, making it perfect for meal prep or quick lunches.
Freezing
You can freeze this soup successfully for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving a little space at the top to allow for expansion. Remember to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Adding a splash of chicken broth or water can loosen the consistency if it thickens too much during storage, ensuring your Hearty Chicken Tuscan Soup Recipe retains its comforting texture.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breast will work just fine, though thighs tend to be juicier and more forgiving during cooking, which helps keep the soup richer and more flavorful.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the chicken with extra beans or your favorite vegetables, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it hearty without meat.
Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
You can, but be sure to soak and cook the dried beans ahead of time until tender. This saves you from rough beans in the soup and keeps the cooking time manageable.
How spicy is the soup? Can I add heat?
The original recipe is mild and comforting, but you can easily add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to spice things up to your liking.
What wine pairs well with Hearty Chicken Tuscan Soup Recipe?
A light to medium-bodied white wine like Pinot Grigio or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc complements the flavors beautifully without overwhelming the dish.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about a bowl of homemade soup that feels like a warm hug, and this Hearty Chicken Tuscan Soup Recipe delivers that in every spoonful. Its rich, savory flavors combined with wholesome ingredients make it an instant favorite for family dinners or cozy nights in. Give yourself the joy of creating this delightful soup—you’ll find it hard not to go back for seconds.
Print
Hearty Chicken Tuscan Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Tuscan, Italian
Description
This Hearty Chicken Tuscan Soup is a flavorful and comforting meal featuring tender chicken thighs simmered with white beans, diced tomatoes, and a medley of aromatic vegetables. Perfectly seasoned with Italian herbs and fresh parsley, this soup is both nourishing and satisfying, ideal for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 pound (450 grams) boneless skinless chicken thighs
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Canned Goods
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
Liquids and Oils
- 4 cups (960 milliliters) chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Seasonings and Herbs
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the pot: Heat a large soup pot over medium heat for about 1 minute to prepare for sautéing the vegetables.
- Sauté vegetables: Add olive oil to the pot, stir in the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften. Then add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add chicken and liquids: Place the chicken thighs into the pot and pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Add beans and seasoning: Stir in the drained white beans, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed.
- Simmer the soup: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Partially cover the pot and cook for 25 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and become tender.
- Shred chicken and finish soup: Remove the chicken thighs from the pot and shred them with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot, stir in the chopped fresh parsley, and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve warm for a comforting meal.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs with boneless skinless chicken breasts, though thighs provide more tenderness and flavor.
- For added creaminess, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk before serving.
- Feel free to use dried Italian seasoning or fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary as alternatives.
- This soup stores well and tastes even better the next day; refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- To make it gluten-free, ensure chicken broth and canned tomatoes do not contain any gluten additives.
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