Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup Recipe | Rich, Hearty & Comforting

I recently tried making this creamy Tuscan chicken soup recipe, and I have to say—it completely won me over! The broth is rich and velvety, the chicken tender and juicy, and the pasta shells soak up every bit of flavor. I loved how the spinach and sun-dried tomatoes added pops of color and taste.

This is definitely my new go-to soup for cozy nights, and if you enjoy comforting creamy pasta dishes, you might also love this creamy cowboy butter chicken linguine recipe. Let me walk you through how to make it exactly like I do at home.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this soup, along with some tips to get the best results:

Chicken thighs – Juicy and flavorful, perfect for a tender bite. Breast can be used if sliced thin.
Small pasta shells – Easy to scoop and cooks quickly. You can also use ditalini, macaroni, or broken spaghetti.
Sun-dried tomatoes – Adds a chewy, tangy burst of flavor. Use the oil from the jar for extra richness.
Garlic – Provides depth and aroma to the soup.
Onion – Sweetness and savory base flavor.
Celery – Adds subtle flavor and keeps the soup visually appealing. Substitute with zucchini or carrots if desired.
Butter – Gives a rich flavor that oil can’t match.
White wine – Just a splash to enhance the broth’s depth.
Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated for best flavor.
Heavy cream – Adds luxurious creaminess to the soup.
Cornstarch – Used to thicken the soup for a glossy finish. Mix with water before adding.
Chicken stock – Forms the flavorful base of the soup.
Spinach – Fresh is best; don’t use frozen to maintain vibrant color and texture.

Note: Serves 4–6.

Variations

This soup is versatile and can be adapted to different dietary preferences:

Dairy-free: Use coconut cream and nutritional yeast instead of cream and Parmesan.
Low-carb: Replace pasta with cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles.
Extra flavor: Add roasted red peppers, a pinch of smoked paprika, or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary.

For a cozy fall-inspired twist, you can also try my turkey meatballs pumpkin sage sauce recipe — it’s rich, comforting, and pairs beautifully with this soup for a complete meal.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Equipment You Need

Large pot – For cooking the soup evenly.
Wooden spoon – For stirring and scraping the bottom of the pot.
Knife and cutting board – To chop vegetables and slice chicken.
Measuring cups and spoons – Ensure accurate ingredient amounts.
Small bowl – To mix cornstarch with water.

How to Make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup Recipe?

Prepare the Ingredients

Chop your onions, celery, and garlic. Slice chicken if using breast, or keep thighs whole. Fresh spinach should be washed and set aside. This makes the cooking process smooth and quick.

Sear the Chicken

Heat butter in a pot, add chicken, and cook until lightly browned. This locks in flavor and juices, giving the soup a rich taste from the start. Remove and set aside.

Sauté Vegetables

Add onions, garlic, and celery to the pot. Cook until soft and fragrant, which forms the flavorful base for the soup. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

Deglaze with Wine

Pour in a splash of white wine to lift all the caramelized bits from the bottom. This adds depth to your broth. Let it simmer for a minute to reduce slightly.

Add Stock and Pasta

Pour in chicken stock, bring to a boil, and add pasta. Cook until pasta is tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Stir in Cream and Cheese

Lower heat and add heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan. Mix gently to combine, creating a silky smooth broth.

Thicken the Soup

Mix cornstarch with water, then stir into the soup. Simmer until thickened to your liking. Add back the chicken and spinach, letting them warm through.

Finish and Serve

Top with sun-dried tomatoes and a drizzle of olive oil. The soup is now ready to enjoy warm, with a beautiful swirl of green and red.

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

I like to use chicken thighs because they stay juicy even after simmering.
Freshly grated Parmesan really makes a difference in creaminess and flavor.
Letting the soup sit for 5 minutes before serving helps the flavors meld together.
I sometimes add a pinch of chili flakes for a gentle kick.

How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup Recipe?

Serve this soup in wide bowls to show off the colorful spinach and sun-dried tomatoes. Garnish with a sprinkle of Parmesan, fresh herbs, or a drizzle of olive oil. Pair with crusty bread or garlic toast for the perfect cozy meal.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving:

Calories: 350–400
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fat: 18g

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Flavors actually improve after sitting overnight.

Freezing

This soup freezes well. Cool completely, then freeze in portions. Avoid freezing the pasta if possible; cook fresh pasta when reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Add a splash of stock or water if it becomes too thick.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Here’s why this creamy Tuscan chicken soup deserves a spot in your weekly rotation:

Easy to make: Minimal prep and straightforward steps make it approachable.
Flavor-packed: Every spoonful bursts with creamy, savory, and tangy notes.
Versatile: Adaptable for low-carb, dairy-free, or extra flavorful variations.
Comfort food: Perfect for cozy nights or when you need a warm, hearty meal.
Quick weeknight meal: Ready in just 40 minutes without sacrificing taste.

This creamy Tuscan chicken soup is one of those recipes I find myself craving over and over. Its rich broth, tender chicken, and vibrant vegetables make it a crowd-pleaser every time.

Ash Tyrrell