There’s something truly special about a steaming bowl of soup that warms you from the inside out. Tuscan Chicken Soup is one of those dishes that brings comfort, nostalgia, and rich flavors to your table in just one bowl. Inspired by the rustic, hearty meals of the Italian countryside, this soup is a delicious combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs, all simmered in a flavorful broth.

Whether you’re craving a cozy meal on a chilly evening, looking for a nourishing dish to feed your family, or just in need of a quick but satisfying dinner, this soup is the answer. Best of all, it comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy – This soup is ready in just 30 minutes, making it a lifesaver when you need something fast and filling.
• Packed with Flavor – The combination of garlic, onions, herbs, and tender chicken creates a rich, savory broth that’s absolutely delicious.
• Nutritious and Satisfying – Full of protein, fiber, and vitamins from fresh vegetables and chicken, this soup is both hearty and nourishing.
• Great for Meal Prep – Make a big batch and store leftovers for an easy lunch or dinner throughout the week.
• Customizable – You can easily add more veggies, adjust the seasonings, or swap ingredients to suit your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
• 1 cup chopped kale or spinach
• ½ cup small pasta (such as ditalini or orzo)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Tuscan Chicken Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and the onions turn translucent. This step helps release the natural sweetness of the veggies, which enhances the overall depth of flavor in the soup.

Step 2: Add the Seasonings and Broth

Sprinkle in the oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together, allowing the spices to bloom for about 30 seconds. Then, pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes (with their juices). Give it a good stir to combine all the flavors.

Step 3: Add the Beans and Chicken

Once the broth starts to simmer, add the drained cannellini beans and the cooked, shredded chicken. Let everything cook together for about 10 minutes, so the flavors meld and the chicken absorbs the seasoning.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta and Greens

Stir in the small pasta and let it cook directly in the broth until tender, about 8–10 minutes. If the soup starts to thicken too much, you can add a bit more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Once the pasta is nearly done, stir in the chopped kale or spinach and let it wilt into the soup. This adds a boost of color and nutrients to the dish.

Step 5: Finish with Parmesan and Serve

Remove the soup from the heat and stir in ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve hot with crusty bread for the ultimate comforting meal.

Helpful Tips

• Use Rotisserie Chicken for Convenience – To save time, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. Just shred it and add it to the soup!
• Make It Creamy – If you prefer a creamy version, stir in a splash of heavy cream or milk at the end.
• Adjust the Spice Level – If you like a little kick, increase the red pepper flakes. For a milder soup, leave them out.
• Pasta Alternatives – If you want a lower-carb option, skip the pasta or replace it with zucchini noodles.
• More Veggies? Yes, Please! – Feel free to throw in extra vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms to make the soup even heartier.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4–6 servings
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian-inspired
• Diet: High-protein

Notes

• Shredded vs. Diced Chicken: Shredded chicken blends better with the broth, giving every spoonful a meaty bite. However, if you prefer chunkier pieces, diced chicken works too.
• Broth Consistency: If you like a thinner soup, add an extra cup of broth. If you prefer a thicker, stew-like consistency, let the soup simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce the liquid.
• Make It Dairy-Free: Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap the pasta for a gluten-free variety or leave it out altogether and add extra beans or vegetables.
• Batch Cooking Tip: Since pasta tends to absorb liquid over time, if you’re making this soup for meal prep, consider cooking the pasta separately and adding it to individual servings when reheating.
• Herb Variations: Fresh basil, rosemary, or thyme can be added for extra flavor. If using fresh herbs, stir them in at the end for the best taste.
• Spice Level Adjustment: The red pepper flakes add a bit of warmth, but you can increase or decrease the amount based on your preference.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigeration: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen over time, making it even better the next day!
• Freezing: This soup freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Reheating: Warm the soup on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it has thickened too much. If using a microwave, heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes! If you have fresh tomatoes on hand, you can dice about 3–4 medium tomatoes and use them instead of canned. Keep in mind that canned tomatoes often have a richer, deeper flavor due to being preserved at peak ripeness.

What other beans can I use?

Great Northern beans or chickpeas work well as substitutes for cannellini beans. You can also mix different types of beans for added texture and variety.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Add all the ingredients except the pasta and greens to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4–6 hours. Stir in the pasta and greens about 20–30 minutes before serving to prevent them from overcooking.

What should I serve with Tuscan Chicken Soup?

This soup pairs beautifully with a slice of crusty bread, garlic toast, or a simple side salad. For extra indulgence, serve it with a grilled cheese sandwich!

Related Recipes

If you loved this Tuscan Chicken Soup, here are a few other cozy soups to try:

• Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup
• Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet
• Hearty Tuscan Chicken Soup – A Cozy, Flavorful Bowl in 30 Minutes
• Marry Me Chicken Soup: A Dish to Warm the Heart and Soul

Conclusion

Tuscan Chicken Soup is the perfect blend of hearty, wholesome ingredients and bold flavors, making it a go-to meal for any season. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving a cozy bowl of goodness, this soup won’t disappoint.

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