Delicious Tuscan Chicken Soup ready to serve with crusty bread.

Delicious Tuscan Chicken Soup Ready in 30 Minutes

Name: Delicious Tuscan Chicken Soup Ready in 30 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed; 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups fresh spinach leaves; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped

Sara

Writer & Blogger

Dinner
April 8, 2025

Delicious Tuscan Chicken Soup Ready in 30 Minutes: A Hearty & Comforting Bowl of Italian Goodness 🍲🇮🇹✨

1. Introduction

When the weather turns chilly or you simply crave something nourishing and comforting, nothing beats a warm bowl of homemade Tuscan chicken soup. This classic Italian-inspired dish combines tender chicken pieces with vibrant vegetables and aromatic herbs, all simmered to perfection in a rich, savory broth. What makes this recipe truly special is that you can enjoy restaurant-quality Tuscan chicken soup in just 30 minutes – perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen!

The magic of this Tuscan chicken soup recipe lies in its perfect balance of flavors and textures. Juicy chicken pieces mingle with creamy cannellini beans, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach to create a symphony of tastes that will transport you straight to the rolling hills of Tuscany. As someone who’s tried countless chicken recipes, I can confidently say this one stands out for its simplicity and depth of flavor. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile – feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or add some small pasta to make it even heartier!

2. Ingredients

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need for this flavorful Tuscan chicken soup. Most of these items are pantry staples or easy to find at your local grocery store:

2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
1 medium onion, finely diced
3 garlic cloves, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder in a pinch)
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces
4 cups chicken broth (homemade or good quality store-bought)
1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed for extra flavor)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning blend
1/2 teaspoon sea salt (adjust to taste)
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 cups fresh spinach leaves (packed)
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried basil)

Pro Tip: If you’re looking for other quick chicken dinner ideas, check out our collection of easy recipes that can be made in 30 minutes or less!

3. Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they become soft and translucent. The onions should just start to develop a slight golden color around the edges. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant – be careful not to burn the garlic as it can turn bitter. This aromatic base is what gives the soup its incredible depth of flavor.

Sautéing onions and garlic in olive oil for Tuscan Chicken Soup.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Add the diced chicken breast to the pot and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pieces are no longer pink on the outside. You don’t need to cook them all the way through at this stage as they’ll continue cooking in the broth. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. If you’re using store-bought broth, I recommend using low-sodium so you can control the salt level. For an extra flavor boost, try our homemade chicken broth recipe that takes this soup to the next level!

Adding diced chicken breast and chicken broth to the pot for Tuscan Chicken Soup.

Step 3: Add Remaining Ingredients

Stir in the cannellini beans (which add wonderful creaminess and protein), sun-dried tomatoes (for that signature Tuscan flavor), Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat to low and let the soup simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes to allow all the flavors to meld together beautifully. This is when the magic happens – the broth becomes infused with all the wonderful flavors from the ingredients. If you’re looking for other quick and healthy recipes, this is the perfect time to prepare a simple side salad!

Simmering Tuscan Chicken Soup with tomatoes and spinach about to be added.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

Add the fresh spinach leaves and cook for just 1-2 minutes until they wilt but still maintain their vibrant green color. Overcooking the spinach will make it lose both texture and nutrients. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil. The Parmesan adds a wonderful umami depth while the basil brings freshness. For presentation, you might want to reserve a few whole basil leaves to garnish the top. Serve immediately while piping hot!

Ladling Tuscan Chicken Soup into a bowl with fresh herbs.

4. Cooking Tips

Broth matters: For extra flavor, use homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought. The difference in taste is remarkable!
Pasta option: Add 1/2 cup of small pasta like ditalini or orzo during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a heartier meal
Greens swap: Substitute kale for spinach if you prefer a more robust green – just add it a few minutes earlier as kale takes longer to soften
Creamy version: For a richer soup, stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream at the end – this creates a luxurious texture
Flavor development: Leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop and meld together
Time saver: Use pre-diced chicken from the grocery store to cut down on prep time even further

5. Serving Suggestions

This Tuscan chicken soup is delicious on its own, but you can turn it into a complete Italian feast by pairing it with:

Bread: Warm, crusty Italian bread or garlic toast for dipping – the perfect vehicle to soak up every last drop of flavorful broth
Salad: A simple green salad with balsamic vinaigrette to add freshness and contrast
Wine: A glass of crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the soup beautifully
Cheese: Grated Pecorino Romano cheese for extra Italian flavor – keep some at the table for guests to add more
Antipasto: Start with some marinated olives and cured meats for a true Tuscan experience

6. Nutritional Information

(Per serving, based on 4 generous servings)

Calories: 320 – A satisfying yet light option for dinner
Protein: 32g – Excellent source of lean protein from chicken and beans
Carbohydrates: 22g – Mostly from the nutritious beans and vegetables
Fiber: 6g – Helps keep you full and supports digestion
Fat: 12g – Healthy fats from olive oil and a small amount from chicken
Vitamin A: 45% DV – Great for immune function and eye health
Vitamin C: 30% DV – From the fresh vegetables, supports immunity
Iron: 20% DV – Important for energy levels and blood health

This soup is naturally gluten-free (if you don’t add pasta) and can easily be made dairy-free by omitting the Parmesan cheese. It’s packed with nutrients while being relatively low in calories, making it a great option for those watching their weight or looking for healthy meal ideas.

7. Storage and Reheating

One of the best things about this Tuscan chicken soup is that it stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep:

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually improve over time!
Freezing: Let the soup cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It will keep for up to 3 months. Leave some headspace as liquids expand when frozen.
Reheating: Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of broth or water if it’s thickened during storage.
Spinach Note: If you plan to freeze the soup, consider adding fresh spinach when reheating rather than before freezing to maintain better texture.

8. Variations

The beauty of this recipe is how adaptable it is to different tastes and dietary needs. Here are some delicious variations to try:

Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth. Add extra beans or some diced mushrooms for heartiness.
Creamy Tuscan: Add 1/4 cup heavy cream at the end for a richer, more indulgent soup.
Spicy Kick: Include 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes with the Italian seasoning for some heat.
Extra Hearty: Add 1 cup diced potatoes with the broth for a more substantial meal.
Pasta Addition: Stir in 1/2 cup small pasta during last 10 minutes of cooking – perfect for kids!
Seafood Twist: Replace chicken with shrimp or scallops for a pescatarian option.
Breakfast Version: For a unique breakfast idea, poach eggs directly in the soup!

9. Conclusion

This 30-minute Tuscan chicken soup recipe proves that you don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen to create something truly special. With its rich flavors, nutritious ingredients, and quick preparation time, it’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, meal prepping for the week ahead, or looking for comfort food that won’t derail your healthy eating goals, this hearty soup delivers authentic Italian flavors with minimal effort.

The combination of tender chicken, creamy beans, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach creates a symphony of textures and tastes that will have everyone asking for seconds. And with all the possible variations, you can make it different every time! For more inspiration, check out our collection of hearty recipes that are perfect for any occasion.

So grab your pot and ingredients, and in just half an hour, you’ll be enjoying a steaming bowl of Tuscan goodness that tastes like it simmered all day. Don’t forget the crusty bread for dipping – because as any Italian nonna will tell you, that’s the best part! Try it tonight and experience a taste of Tuscany in your own kitchen. Buon appetito!