Description
A hearty and comforting Tuscan chicken soup that is rich in flavors and creamy in texture, making it perfect for chilly days.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for garnishing
- Chopped fresh basil for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, usually around 5 minutes. Follow up by adding in the minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery. Cook for about another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and become aromatic.
- Next, toss in the chicken breasts into the pot, allowing them to sear slightly to lock in the flavors. Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and the chicken broth. Bring everything to a gentle boil and then reduce to a simmer. Allow the soup to cook for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Remove the chicken breasts from the pot and set them aside. Afterward, with the heat still low, stir in the heavy cream, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. For an extra depth of flavor, let the mixture simmer gently for an additional 5 minutes.
- While the soup is bubbling away, shred the chicken using two forks. Return the shredded chicken back into the pot along with the fresh spinach. Stir it well, allowing the spinach to wilt into the soup for about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Once done, serve hot, garnishing each bowl with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped basil.
Notes
For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk. You can also use chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 60mg