As the days grow colder and nights draw in, there’s nothing quite like a comforting bowl of soup to warm both body and soul. One recipe that captures the essence of comfort is Tuscan Herb Chicken Soup, a wholesome blend of savory herbs, fresh vegetables, and a surprising hint of white wine that elevates the dish to something truly special. This Italian-inspired soup is rich, aromatic, and easy to make, making it the perfect option for cozy weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.
A Taste of Tuscany in a Bowl
Tuscan Herb Chicken Soup combines the heartiness of tender chicken with the vibrant flavors of Italian herbs. Every spoonful offers the subtle warmth of garlic and ginger, the earthiness of oregano and rosemary, and a hint of freshness from basil and parsley. Plus, the addition of white wine in the broth adds a depth of flavor and sophistication that makes this soup stand out.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To bring this delightful dish to life, gather the following ingredients:
For the Soup:
- Chicken tenderloins: Bone-in and skin-on for added flavor.
- Olive oil: Enhances the richness of the soup.
- Onion, carrots, and celery: The classic aromatic trio for soups.
- Garlic and ginger: Add warmth and subtle spiciness.
- Italian herbs blend: A combination of thyme, oregano, and rosemary.
- Chicken broth: Low-sodium to control the salt levels.
- White wine: Adds a mild, fruity layer of flavor.
- Salt and black pepper: For seasoning.
- Fresh basil: Adds a burst of fragrance to finish the soup.
For the Garnish:
- Quinoa or other grains: Optional, but adds heartiness.
- Lemon zest: Brightens up the flavors.
- Fresh parsley: Complements the herbs in the soup beautifully.
Cooking Instructions
1. Start with the Chicken
In a large pot, heat the olive oil and brown the chicken tenderloins on both sides to bring out a rich, deep flavor. Once browned, remove the chicken and set it aside; it will be added back in later.
2. Build the Base
In the same pot, add chopped onion, carrots, celery, garlic, and ginger. Sauté these ingredients until they’re softened and aromatic, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the Herbs and Broth
Stir in the Italian herbs, letting the aroma fill the kitchen. Add the chicken broth and return the browned chicken to the pot, allowing it to simmer for 30-40 minutes until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
4. Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is ready, remove it from the pot, shred the meat, and discard the bones and skin. Return the shredded chicken to the soup for added texture and flavor.
5. Season and Simmer
Add the white wine and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together.
6. Garnish and Serve
Before serving, remove any excess fat that may have risen to the top. Add cooked quinoa or grains if desired. Garnish with fresh basil, a sprinkle of lemon zest, and chopped parsley for a fragrant, vibrant finish.
Why This Recipe Works
The beauty of this Tuscan Herb Chicken Soup lies in its simplicity and the layering of flavors. By browning the chicken first, you infuse the broth with a richer depth, while the combination of ginger, garlic, and herbs creates an aromatic and flavorful base. The final touch of white wine adds complexity, balancing the savory notes with a hint of acidity.
Customizing the Soup
One of the best things about this soup is how versatile it is. Feel free to:
- Use different grains: Substitute quinoa with farro, barley, or even rice for added texture.
- Add more veggies: Zucchini, kale, or spinach would be delicious additions.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
A Warming Dish for Any Occasion
Whether you’re battling a winter cold or simply want a cozy meal to enjoy by the fire, Tuscan Herb Chicken Soup is a comforting option that’s both nourishing and flavorful. The next time you’re in the mood for a hearty bowl of soup, give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!
Tuscan Herb Chicken Soup
Description
Warm up with a comforting bowl of Tuscan Herb Chicken Soup, a delightful blend of herbs, vegetables, and a hint of whisky, perfect for cozy evenings.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
– 1 lb about 450g chicken tenderloins, bone-in, skin-on
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 carrots, sliced
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
– 1 teaspoon Italian herbs blend (such as thyme, oregano, rosemary)
– 8 cups chicken broth, low-sodium
– 1/4 cup white wine
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh basil for garnish
For the Garnish:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa or your choice of grains (optional)
– Lemon zest
– Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken tenderloins, skin-side down, and brown on both sides. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
2. In the same pot, add chopped onion, sliced carrots, chopped celery, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.
3. Stir in the Italian herbs blend for an aromatic base.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and add the browned chicken back to the pot.
5. Simmer the soup for about 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
6. Remove the chicken from the pot, shred the meat, and discard the bones and skin. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
7. Add white wine to the soup and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
8. Before serving, remove any excess fat that may have risen to the top.
9. If using, add cooked quinoa or your choice of grains to the soup.
10. Garnish with fresh basil, lemon zest, and chopped parsley for a fragrant finish.