Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Flavorful: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and herbs infuses the soup with deep, savory notes.
- Healthy and Nourishing: Packed with lean protein from chicken and nutrients from spinach, it’s both satisfying and good for you.
- Dairy-Free Option: Using coconut milk provides creaminess without dairy, suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in about 45 minutes, it’s an excellent option for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- Avocado oil
- Yellow onion, chopped
- Garlic cloves, minced
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, chopped
- Dried oregano
- Dried parsley
- Sea salt
- Black pepper
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
- Sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
- Full-fat canned coconut milk
- Low-sodium chicken broth
- Fresh baby spinach
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat avocado oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Cook Chicken: Add the chopped chicken breasts to the pot. Season with dried oregano, dried parsley, sea salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth: Incorporate the sun-dried tomatoes into the mixture, then pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Make It Creamy: Stir in the coconut milk, ensuring it’s well combined. Simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Add Spinach: Fold in the fresh baby spinach and cook until wilted, approximately 2 minutes.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy warm.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Variations
- Add Pasta: For a heartier meal, incorporate cooked pasta such as ditalini or small shells.
- Vegetable Boost: Enhance the nutritional profile by adding vegetables like zucchini, kale, or bell peppers.
- Herb Substitutions: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
- Protein Alternatives: Substitute chicken with turkey or Italian sausage for a unique twist.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: This soup freezes well. Place cooled soup in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. If the soup has thickened, add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach the desired consistency.
FAQs
What can I use instead of coconut milk?
If you’re not avoiding dairy, heavy cream can be used as a substitute for coconut milk.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Is this soup spicy?
The soup has a mild spice level. To increase the heat, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely, using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken can save time. Add it during the simmering step to warm through.
How can I thicken the soup?
For a thicker consistency, let the soup simmer longer to reduce, or add a slurry of cornstarch and water.
What can I serve with this soup?
Pair it with crusty bread, a side salad, or garlic breadsticks for a complete meal.
Can I add cheese?
Yes, sprinkling grated Parmesan cheese on top adds a delightful flavor.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as the ingredients used are certified gluten-free, this soup is suitable for a gluten-free diet.
How do I make it vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth. Consider adding beans like cannellini or chickpeas for protein.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried?
While sun-dried tomatoes provide a concentrated flavor, you can use fresh tomatoes. Note that the flavor profile will be lighter.
Conclusion
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is a versatile and comforting dish that brings the flavors of Italy to your table. Whether you’re seeking a nourishing weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests, this soup is sure to satisfy. Enjoy its rich flavors and consider experimenting with
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is a flavorful, comforting dish packed with tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach in a rich, creamy broth. This easy one-pot meal is perfect for a cozy dinner and offers a dairy-free option with coconut milk. Ready in just 45 minutes, it’s a quick, nourishing choice for any night of the week.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp avocado oil
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1 tsp sea salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
- 1 (13.5 oz) can full-fat coconut milk
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat avocado oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Cook Chicken: Add chopped chicken breasts and season with oregano, parsley, sea salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, then pour in chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 15 minutes.
- Make It Creamy: Stir in coconut milk and let it simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Add Spinach: Fold in baby spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
- Serve: Ladle into bowls and enjoy warm!
Notes
- Dairy Alternative: Substitute coconut milk with heavy cream for a richer, non-dairy-free version.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Thickening Tip: Let it simmer longer or add a cornstarch slurry for a thicker soup.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian