Lu-Ann Simon October 10, 2025

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Tuscan-Style Chicken Soup Recipe

Name: Tuscan-Style Chicken Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 onion, peeled and chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 sprigs fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried thyme); 1 celery stalk, sliced; 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped; 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced; 4 cups (1 liter) chicken stock (homemade or store-bought); ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; 14 oz (400g) cooked cannellini beans, drained and rinsed; 2 cooked, skinless chicken breasts, shredded; 3.5 oz (100g) chopped kale; Small bunch fresh parsley, chopped; 2 tbsp finely grated parmesan cheese; Toasted granary bread (gluten-free if needed)

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There’s something inherently comforting about a warm bowl of soup on a chilly day. The Tuscan-Style Chicken Soup stands out with its rich flavors and nourishing ingredients, creating the perfect dish for cozy dinners or lazy weekend lunches. As the aroma fills your kitchen, you’ll be transported to the heart of Tuscany, where fresh herbs and wholesome ingredients come together seamlessly. Whether it’s a family gathering or a quiet evening at home, this soup invites warmth and joy to every occasion.

Reasons to Adore This Tuscan-Style Chicken Soup Recipe

This Tuscan-Style Chicken Soup is not just another bowl of comfort; it’s a celebration of flavors that will delight your senses and warm your heart. Here’s why you’ll find this recipe irresistible:

Hearty and nutritious
Easy to prepare in under an hour
Full of vibrant, fresh ingredients
Customizable to your taste
Perfect for meal prepping and reheating

With every spoonful, you’ll savor the taste of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and fragrant herbs, making it a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire.

Gather These Ingredients

Before diving into the cooking process, make sure you have everything ready. Feel free to make swaps based on your preferences, such as using different vegetables or beans. Here’s what you’ll need for your Tuscan-Style Chicken Soup:

1 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, peeled and chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 sprigs fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
1 celery stalk, sliced
2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
4 cups (1 liter) good-quality chicken stock (homemade or store-bought)
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
14 oz (400g) cooked cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
2 cooked, skinless chicken breasts, shredded
3.5 oz (100g) chopped kale
Small bunch fresh parsley, chopped
2 tbsp finely grated parmesan cheese
Fresh thyme
Toasted granary bread (use gluten-free bread if needed)

Note: You can easily swap the chicken for turkey or leave out the meat for a vegetarian option.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Tuscan-Style Chicken Soup

Creating this delicious Tuscan-Style Chicken Soup is a breeze, thanks to the straightforward steps. Follow along for a delightful culinary adventure:

Sauté the Onion
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and becomes translucent, filling your kitchen with a lovely aroma.
Add Garlic and Thyme
Stir in the minced garlic and thyme. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the garlic to release its flavor without burning.
Add Vegetables and Stock
Next, toss in the sliced celery, chopped carrots, and diced potatoes. Pour the chicken stock into the pot and season everything with salt and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes, letting the flavors develop beautifully.
Incorporate Beans and Chicken
Stir in the drained cannellini beans and continue to cook for an additional 5 minutes. Add the shredded chicken, mixing well until thoroughly combined. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through, and the soup becomes heartier.
Add Kale and Finish Cooking
Stir in the chopped kale and let it simmer for another 1-2 minutes until wilted. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed, ensuring each bite is bursting with flavor.
Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with freshly chopped parsley, grated parmesan, and a few sprigs of fresh thyme for that extra touch. Serve it warm alongside toasted granary bread for the ultimate comfort meal.

Prep ~ 15 minutes, Cook ~ 30 minutes, Total ~ 45 minutes, Servings ~ 4-6, Kcal ~ 350 per serving (approx.)

Preparation Tips for Success

For easy meal planning, consider prepping some ingredients in advance. Chop your vegetables, shred the chicken, and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This way, when it’s time to cook, you’ll have everything ready to go. If you want to store the soup for later, allow it to cool before transferring it to airtight containers.

Storing and Reheating

Proper storage will keep your Tuscan-Style Chicken Soup fresh for days. In the refrigerator, the soup will last for about 3 to 4 days, making it a great option for leftovers. If you’d like to keep it longer, you can freeze it in suitable containers for up to 2 months. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over medium heat, and add a splash of chicken stock or water to revive its original consistency. For a freshness boost, toss in a sprinkle of fresh herbs just before serving.

Flavor Pairings for Tuscan-Style Chicken Soup

This Tuscan-Style Chicken Soup pairs beautifully with a variety of sides that enhance its wholesome flavor:

Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping and soaking up every drop of the flavorful broth.
Simple Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky goodness complements the soup superbly.
Bruschetta: Topped with fresh tomatoes and basil for a refreshing bite.
Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can elevate your dining experience.
Wine Pairing: A glass of crisp white wine can add a delightful touch.

Adaptations and Customizations

Making this Tuscan-Style Chicken Soup your own is part of the fun. Here are some ideas to add a personal twist:

Substitute the chicken with turkey or cooked lentils for a vegetarian version.
Experiment with different beans, such as navy or black beans.
Add grains like quinoa or barley for additional texture.
Spice things up by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Incorporate seasonal vegetables, like zucchini or bell peppers, for variety.
For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup before adding the chicken back in.
Use a mix of herbs like dill or basil alongside thyme for a unique flavor profile.
Adjust the broth for more or less liquid according to your preference.

Culinary Insights for the Best Results

To elevate your cooking game with this Tuscan-Style Chicken Soup, consider these wise tips:

Ensure the vegetables are cut evenly for consistent cooking.
Pay attention to the quality of your chicken stock; a rich stock yields a tastier soup.
Allow the soup to sit for a bit after cooking to let flavors intensify.
For added creaminess, stir in a splash of heavy cream just before serving.
Keep an eye on the chicken while shredding to prevent it from drying out.

Your Questions, Answered

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Tuscan-Style Chicken Soup:

Can I use raw chicken instead of cooked?
Yes, you can add raw chicken breasts to the pot along with the vegetables and cook until fully done, then shred.
What can I substitute for cannellini beans?
You can easily substitute them with chickpeas or navy beans for a different flavor and texture.
Is this soup freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! Just ensure it’s cooled fully before storing in airtight containers. It can last in the freezer for about 2 months.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, replace the chicken with additional beans or cooked lentils and use vegetable stock instead.
How do I prevent the soup from becoming mushy?
Avoid overcooking the vegetables, add them according to their cooking times, and taste regularly during the cooking process.

Final Thoughts

The Tuscan-Style Chicken Soup is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that warms the soul and comforts the heart. With its aromatic herbs, tender chicken, and vibrant vegetables, it captures the essence of home-cooked goodness. This recipe not only nourishes the body, but it also creates moments of togetherness around the table. So why not gather your ingredients and create a batch of this delightful soup soon? Your taste buds—and your loved ones—will thank you for it.

Tuscan-Style Chicken Soup

Author: lu-ann
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

A warm and comforting Tuscan-Style Chicken Soup filled with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and fragrant herbs, perfect for cozy dinners or lazy weekend lunches.

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-low heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for about 10 minutes until softened and translucent.
Stir in minced garlic and thyme, cooking for an additional 2 minutes.
Add sliced celery, chopped carrots, and diced potatoes to the pot, then pour in the chicken stock. Season with salt and black pepper, bring to a boil, and simmer for 20 minutes.
Stir in the drained cannellini beans and cook for another 5 minutes. Then add shredded chicken and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Add chopped kale and let simmer for another 1-2 minutes until wilted. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Ladle soup into bowls and top with chopped parsley, grated parmesan, and fresh thyme. Serve warm with toasted granary bread.