Tuscan Bean Chicken & Italian Sausage Soup: A Flavorful Italian Feast
Craving a hearty and comforting Italian meal? Look no further! This recipe combines the rustic flavors of Tuscany with the warmth of a homemade soup. Our Tuscan Bean Chicken & Italian Sausage Soup is packed with tender chicken, savory Italian sausage, creamy cannellini beans, and a medley of fresh vegetables, all simmered in a flavorful broth. It’s a complete meal in a bowl, perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy weekend lunch.
This recipe is designed to be approachable for home cooks of all skill levels. We’ll guide you through each step with clear instructions and helpful tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time. Get ready to experience the deliciousness of authentic Italian cuisine right in your own kitchen!
## Why You’ll Love This Tuscan Bean Chicken & Italian Sausage Soup
* **Flavorful and Satisfying:** The combination of chicken, Italian sausage, and cannellini beans creates a rich and deeply satisfying flavor profile.
* **Healthy and Nutritious:** Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, this soup is a wholesome and nutritious meal option.
* **Easy to Make:** With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is easy to prepare, even for beginner cooks.
* **Versatile and Customizable:** Feel free to adapt the recipe to your liking by adding different vegetables, herbs, or spices.
* **Perfect for Meal Prep:** This soup is even better the next day, making it an excellent option for meal prepping.
* **Freezable:** Make a big batch and freeze individual portions for easy and convenient meals later.
## Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather the following ingredients:
* **Chicken:** 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes. Chicken thighs can also be used for a richer flavor.
* **Italian Sausage:** 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or hot, or a combination), removed from casings. If using links, simply slice them into half-inch rounds after browning.
* **Cannellini Beans:** 2 (15-ounce) cans cannellini beans, rinsed and drained. These creamy white beans are a staple in Tuscan cuisine.
* **Olive Oil:** 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil. This will be used for sautéing the vegetables and sausage.
* **Onion:** 1 large yellow onion, chopped. Aromatic base for the soup.
* **Carrots:** 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped. Adds sweetness and texture.
* **Celery:** 2 stalks celery, chopped. Another essential component of the aromatic base.
* **Garlic:** 4 cloves garlic, minced. Adds a pungent and savory flavor.
* **Chicken Broth:** 8 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred). The liquid base of the soup.
* **Diced Tomatoes:** 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained. Adds acidity and body to the soup.
* **Tomato Paste:** 2 tablespoons tomato paste. Enhances the tomato flavor and adds richness.
* **Dried Oregano:** 1 teaspoon dried oregano. A classic Italian herb.
* **Dried Basil:** 1 teaspoon dried basil. Another essential Italian herb.
* **Red Pepper Flakes:** 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional). Adds a touch of heat.
* **Salt and Black Pepper:** To taste. Seasoning is crucial for bringing out the flavors.
* **Fresh Spinach:** 5 ounces fresh spinach, roughly chopped. Adds a pop of color and nutrients.
* **Fresh Parsley:** 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped. For garnish and added freshness.
* **Grated Parmesan Cheese:** For serving (optional). Adds a salty and savory finish.
* **Crusty Bread:** For serving (optional). Perfect for soaking up the delicious broth.
## Equipment You’ll Need
* Large Dutch oven or soup pot
* Cutting board
* Knife
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Wooden spoon or spatula
## Step-by-Step Instructions
Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these detailed instructions to create your own Tuscan Bean Chicken & Italian Sausage Soup:
**Step 1: Brown the Sausage**
* Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium-high heat.
* Add the Italian sausage (removed from casings) and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. The browning process is key to developing deep, savory flavors.
* Remove the sausage from the pot with a slotted spoon and set aside.
**Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables**
* Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the pot. Reduce heat to medium.
* Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This process, called mirepoix, is the foundation of many great soups and stews.
* Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
**Step 3: Add the Chicken and Spices**
* Add the cubed chicken to the pot and cook until lightly browned on all sides. It doesn’t need to be cooked all the way through at this point.
* Stir in the tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to allow the spices to bloom and release their flavors. The heat helps to activate the aromatic compounds.
**Step 4: Simmer the Soup**
* Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced tomatoes (undrained).
* Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
**Step 5: Add the Beans and Sausage**
* Stir in the rinsed and drained cannellini beans and the cooked Italian sausage.
* Simmer for another 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
**Step 6: Add the Spinach**
* Stir in the chopped fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
**Step 7: Season and Serve**
* Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Remember that salt is crucial for enhancing the flavors of the soup.
* Remove from heat and stir in the chopped fresh parsley.
* Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese (if desired) and a side of crusty bread.
## Tips and Variations
* **Use Different Beans:** Cannellini beans are traditional, but you can substitute other white beans like Great Northern beans or Navy beans.
* **Add More Vegetables:** Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, kale, or bell peppers to the soup.
* **Make it Spicy:** Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier soup.
* **Use Chicken Thighs:** For a richer flavor, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts.
* **Add Parmesan Rind:** Add a Parmesan rind to the soup while it simmers for extra umami flavor. Remove the rind before serving.
* **Make it Creamy:** Stir in a dollop of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end for a creamier soup.
* **Add Pasta:** Add small pasta shapes like ditalini or orzo to the soup for a heartier meal. Add the pasta during the last 10-15 minutes of simmering time.
* **Vegetarian Option:** Omit the chicken and sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version. Add more vegetables and beans to compensate for the protein.
* **Slow Cooker Version:** Brown the sausage and sauté the vegetables as instructed. Then, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking time.
* **Instant Pot Version:** Use the sauté function on your Instant Pot to brown the sausage and sauté the vegetables. Then, add the remaining ingredients (except the spinach and parsley) and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release for 10 minutes. Stir in the spinach and parsley before serving.
## Serving Suggestions
This Tuscan Bean Chicken & Italian Sausage Soup is delicious on its own, but here are a few serving suggestions to elevate your meal:
* **Crusty Bread:** Serve with a side of crusty bread for dipping into the flavorful broth.
* **Grated Parmesan Cheese:** Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for a salty and savory finish.
* **Garlic Bread:** Pair with garlic bread for an extra indulgent experience.
* **Side Salad:** Serve with a simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing to balance the richness of the soup.
* **Grilled Cheese Sandwich:** A grilled cheese sandwich is a classic pairing with tomato-based soups.
## Storage and Reheating Instructions
* **Storage:** Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* **Reheating:** Reheat the soup in a saucepan over medium heat until heated through. You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl for a few minutes, stirring occasionally.
* **Freezing:** Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
## Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
* Calories: 450-550
* Protein: 30-40g
* Fat: 20-30g
* Carbohydrates: 30-40g
* Fiber: 10-15g
*Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.*
## Conclusion
This Tuscan Bean Chicken & Italian Sausage Soup is a delightful and comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors, hearty ingredients, and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a family favorite. So gather your ingredients, follow our step-by-step instructions, and enjoy a taste of Tuscany in your own home. Buon appetito!