Non Veg Recipes Mason Williams September 28, 2024 0 Comments

Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Soup Recipe

There’s nothing more comforting than a warm, hearty soup simmering in the crockpot, especially on busy days when you want a delicious meal without much effort. My Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Soup recipe is the perfect blend of rich, savory flavors and wholesome ingredients that come together effortlessly. Packed with tender chicken, nutrient-rich vegetables, and a touch of Italian herbs, this soup is not only satisfying but also healthy. Whether you’re prepping meals for the week or looking for an easy dinner, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites!

Table of Contents

Ingredients Needed For Making this Delicious Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Soup

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs, if preferred)
4 cups of chicken broth (low-sodium)
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (for a dairy-free option)
3 cups fresh spinach (roughly chopped)
1 medium onion (diced)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
2 large carrots (peeled and sliced)
2 celery stalks (chopped)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

These ingredients combine to create a soup that’s bursting with flavor, texture, and nutrition—perfect for a wholesome, comforting meal!

How to Make Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Soup

Making this Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Soup is as simple as tossing everything into your slow cooker and letting it do the work. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Prep the Ingredients:
Start by chopping the vegetables—dice the onions, slice the carrots and celery, and mince the garlic.
Layer the Crockpot:
Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. Then, add the diced tomatoes (with juice), onions, carrots, celery, and garlic on top of the chicken.
Add Seasoning:
Sprinkle in the oregano, basil, and crushed red pepper flakes. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Pour the Broth:
Pour the chicken broth over the vegetables and chicken, ensuring that everything is well covered. Stir gently to combine the ingredients.
Cook:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is fully cooked, use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces directly in the crockpot.
Add the Cream and Spinach:
Stir in the heavy cream (or coconut milk for a dairy-free version) and the chopped spinach. Let the soup cook for an additional 15–20 minutes until the spinach wilts and the soup becomes creamy.
Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil, if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or your favorite side!

This easy, hands-off recipe will reward you with a flavorful and hearty soup that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or meal prep for the week!

Tips for Making Perfect Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Soup

To ensure your Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Soup turns out perfectly every time, here are a few helpful tips and tricks:

Use Fresh Ingredients:
For the best flavor, use fresh vegetables and herbs. Fresh spinach and garlic enhance the depth of flavor in this soup.
Adjust Creaminess:
If you prefer a lighter soup, you can reduce or substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even omit it altogether. For a richer version, add a little extra cream or a tablespoon of cream cheese for added creaminess.
Shredding the Chicken:
Shred the chicken directly in the crockpot with forks once it’s cooked. This method saves time and allows the shredded chicken to absorb even more flavor from the broth.
For More Heat:
If you like your soup a bit spicy, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes. You can also add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
Make it Dairy-Free:
To make this recipe dairy-free, simply swap the heavy cream for coconut milk. It gives a lovely creaminess without the dairy and adds a slight tropical note that pairs beautifully with the other flavors.
Customize the Vegetables:
Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or even mushrooms for more texture and nutrition. This soup is versatile and can be tailored to suit your preferences.
Low-Sodium Option:
If you’re watching your sodium intake, use low-sodium chicken broth and adjust the salt at the end of cooking.
Meal Prep Friendly:
This soup stores well in the fridge for 3–4 days, making it a great option for meal prep. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before freezing!

By following these tips, you’ll end up with a perfectly balanced, flavorful Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Soup that’s as nutritious as it is delicious!

Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Soup Variations

The beauty of this Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Soup is how adaptable it is to suit your taste and dietary preferences. Here are a few variations to try:

Swap the Protein:
If you want to change up the protein, try using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor, or even turkey breast for a lighter alternative. For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with cannellini beans or chickpeas for a hearty plant-based version.
Add More Veggies:
Boost the nutritional value by adding more vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. You can also throw in some sweet potatoes or butternut squash for a touch of sweetness and texture.
Make it Low-Carb:
To keep this soup low in carbohydrates, skip the carrots and celery, and replace them with low-carb veggies like cauliflower or spinach. You can also reduce or eliminate the cream if you’re watching your calorie intake.
Herb Swap:
If you’re out of oregano or basil, try using Italian seasoning or fresh thyme for a different herb profile. Fresh rosemary can also add a lovely, earthy touch to the soup.
Creamy without Dairy:
For a dairy-free version, swap out the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk. It adds a creamy texture without the dairy, and it pairs wonderfully with the Tuscan flavors.
Spice it Up:
If you enjoy a spicy kick, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a diced jalapeño to the soup. You can also stir in a dash of hot sauce or chili oil before serving.
Pasta Addition:
For a heartier meal, consider adding a small pasta like orzo or ditalini during the last hour of cooking. The pasta will absorb the flavorful broth and make the soup even more filling.
Cheesy Goodness:
If you’re a cheese lover, stir in a handful of shredded Parmesan or mozzarella towards the end of cooking. The cheese will melt into the soup, adding an extra layer of richness.

These simple variations allow you to customize the recipe based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences, making this Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Soup a versatile and repeat-worthy dish!

Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Soup Serving Suggestions

This Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Soup is rich, hearty, and full of flavor, making it perfect as a standalone meal. However, here are some serving ideas to elevate your dining experience:

Crusty Bread:
Serve the soup with warm, crusty bread or a baguette to soak up the delicious broth. Garlic bread or a rosemary focaccia would also be great companions to the creamy, flavorful soup.
Salad Pairing:
A light, crisp side salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup. Try a simple arugula or mixed greens salad with a lemon olive oil dressing for a refreshing contrast.
Rice or Quinoa:
For a more filling meal, serve the soup over a bed of cooked rice, quinoa, or even farro. The grains will absorb the flavorful broth, making the dish heartier and more substantial.
Cheese Garnish:
Top each bowl with freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese for added richness. A sprinkle of sharp cheese adds a salty, savory touch that pairs perfectly with the Tuscan flavors.
Fresh Herbs:
Garnish with fresh basil, parsley, or thyme just before serving to add a burst of freshness. The herbs not only brighten the flavor but also make the soup look more inviting.
Roasted Vegetables:
For a more filling meal, serve this soup with a side of roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts. The roasted flavor complements the creamy broth and adds texture to your meal.
Wine Pairing:
If you’re looking to make the meal extra special, pair the soup with a light white wine like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay. The crispness of the wine will cut through the richness of the soup.

These serving ideas will help enhance the experience of enjoying Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Soup while keeping the meal balanced and satisfying!

Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Soup Nutritional Information

Here’s a general breakdown of the nutritional value for a serving of Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Soup (serving size: 1 bowl, approximately 1 1/2 cups):

Calories: 320 kcal
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 95mg
Sodium: 750mg
Vitamin A: 80% of the Daily Value (DV)
Vitamin C: 45% of the DV
Calcium: 15% of the DV
Iron: 10% of the DV

This soup is high in protein, thanks to the chicken, and packed with nutrients from the vegetables like spinach, carrots, and tomatoes. The heavy cream adds richness, but you can reduce the fat content by substituting it with coconut milk or a lower-fat dairy option.

Keep in mind that nutritional values may vary depending on ingredient choices, portion sizes, and additional variations to the recipe. This healthy, well-balanced soup makes a great meal for those seeking both flavor and nutrition!

My Personal Experience in Making Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Soup

Making this Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Soup has become one of my favorite ways to enjoy a comforting and wholesome meal, especially on busy days when I want something delicious without too much effort. The first time I made it, I was amazed at how easily the ingredients came together in the crockpot, filling my kitchen with the warm aroma of Italian herbs and fresh vegetables.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. I’ve tried adding different vegetables and occasionally using chicken thighs for a richer flavor. No matter how I adjust it, the soup always turns out flavorful and hearty. One tip I picked up over time is to stir in the spinach and cream towards the end of the cooking process. This keeps the spinach vibrant and the soup creamy without being overly thick.

It’s also a dish my family enjoys, especially during cooler months. Pairing it with some crusty garlic bread or a light salad makes it a complete and satisfying dinner. Plus, leftovers are even better the next day, so it’s perfect for meal prepping!

If you’re looking for an easy, hands-off recipe that’s packed with flavor, I highly recommend giving this Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Soup a try. It’s now a staple in my kitchen, and I’m sure it will become one in yours, too!

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a cozy, flavorful meal that requires minimal effort, this Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Soup is the perfect recipe to try. It’s a delicious combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and rich, creamy broth, all slow-cooked to perfection. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or cooking for a family dinner, this hearty soup is sure to satisfy everyone at the table. The flexibility to adjust the ingredients, make it dairy-free, or even spice it up means you can tailor the recipe to your preferences.

With just a few simple steps and the magic of a crockpot, you’ll have a comforting, restaurant-quality dish ready to enjoy without spending hours in the kitchen. Give this recipe a try, and it just might become one of your go-to meals for busy days!

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts or thighs. Just add an extra hour to the cooking time if using frozen chicken. Ensure it’s fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F) before serving.

2. Can I make this soup in a stovetop pot instead?

Absolutely! To make it on the stovetop, follow the same steps but simmer the soup on low heat for about 30–40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before freezing.

4. Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the chicken with canned cannellini beans or chickpeas for protein. You can also replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

5. What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread, a light salad, or over a bed of rice or quinoa. Grated Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs also make excellent toppings.

6. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup is great for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer. The flavors often deepen and improve after sitting, making leftovers taste even better.

7. How can I adjust the spice level?

You can easily adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer crushed red pepper flakes. For a milder soup, omit them entirely, or for extra heat, add a diced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce.

8. What if I don’t have spinach?

If you don’t have spinach, you can substitute it with kale or Swiss chard. Both greens will work well and provide similar nutrients and texture to the soup.

Feel free to reach out if you have any other questions or need more tips for making this delicious Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Soup! Enjoy your cooking!

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