Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup (Easy, Creamy & Comforting)

How to Make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Follow these simple steps to prepare a flavorful pot of homemade Tuscan-inspired chicken soup.

Step 1: Prepare the ingredients

Cut the chicken into evenly sized, bite-size pieces. Chop the onion and sun-dried tomatoes, mince the garlic, and measure out the remaining ingredients.

Preparing everything before you start cooking makes the process smoother and helps prevent the garlic or other ingredients from overcooking while you work.

Step 2: Brown the chicken

Heat the olive oil and butter in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed soup pot over medium-high heat.

Add the chicken in a single layer, working in batches if necessary. Season lightly with salt and black pepper, then cook for about 4–6 minutes, turning occasionally, until the outside is lightly golden.

The chicken does not need to be fully cooked at this stage because it will finish cooking in the broth. Transfer it to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the onion and garlic

Reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion to the same pot and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.

Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Avoid letting the garlic turn dark brown, as it can develop a bitter flavor.

Step 4: Add the sun-dried tomatoes and seasonings

Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, paprika, and optional red pepper flakes.

Cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently. This brief cooking step helps release the aromas of the herbs and garlic and brings the tomato flavor into the base of the soup.