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Keto Tuscan Soup is a rich and creamy lowcarb spin on the classic Tuscanstyle soup, bringing together tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a luscious creamy broth. This comforting dish warms you from the inside out while keeping things ketofriendly, making it perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep during a busy week.
I first made this soup during a chilly evening and my whole family kept going back for seconds. Now it’s a go to whenever comfort food cravings hit but I want to stay on track with keto.
Ingredients
- Olive oil: for a rich cooking base and hearthealthy fats choose extra virgin for best flavor
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: the protein that keeps you full thighs bring more juiciness
- Small onion: adds natural sweetness and aromatic depth pick firm and shiny for freshness
- Garlic cloves: essential for that fragrant kick use fresh and finely minced
- Chicken broth: forms the flavorful liquid foundation homemade or low sodium options work great
- Diced tomatoes canned: adds a touch of acidity and balances richness drain to avoid extra liquid
- Dried basil and oregano: bring classic Tuscan herbs to the soup with earthy and savory notes
- Red pepper flakes optional: for subtle heat fresh chili flakes add brightness
- Fresh spinach: contributes vibrant color and nutrients choose crisp leaves without wilting
- Heavy cream: creates the creamy texture without carbs opt for full fat for richness
- Grated Parmesan cheese: adds umami and helps thicken the soup freshly grated delivers best results
- Salt and pepper: essential seasoning to enhance all the flavors
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish optional: adds freshness and visual appeal at serving
Instructions
- Sauté the chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced chicken and cook until it is browned on all sides, about five to seven minutes. This step locks in flavor and texture. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Cook the onions:
- In the same pot, add diced onion. Cook for two to three minutes until softened but not browned. This gentle cooking brings out the natural sweetness.
- Add garlic:
- Add minced garlic to the pot. Cook for another one to two minutes until fragrant to build layers of flavor.
- Simmer the base:
- Pour in the chicken broth. Stir in the drained diced tomatoes, dried basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes if using. Bring to a simmer to marry all these flavors.
- Return chicken to pot:
- Add the cooked chicken back to the pot. Let everything simmer together for about ten minutes so the meat soaks up the herby broth.
- Wilt the spinach:
- Add chopped spinach to the pot and cook for an additional two to three minutes until wilted but still bright green. This adds fresh earthiness and texture.
- Make it creamy:
- Lower the heat to prevent curdling. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring gently until the cheese melts completely and the soup becomes creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve:
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired. This adds a pop of color and fresh aromatic flavor.
What I love most about this soup is the way the Parmesan cheese deepens the flavor and adds that silky mouthfeel that makes it feel indulgent without guilt. A memorable moment was serving this on a rainy evening and watching everyone linger over seconds while warm bread steamed beside the bowl.
Storage tips
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the cream from breaking. If the soup thickens too much after chilling, stir in a splash of chicken broth when reheating.
Ingredient substitutions
You can substitute chicken with sausage or turkey for a heartier flavor. For a dairyfree version, swap heavy cream for canned coconut cream and use a vegan Parmesan substitute or nutritional yeast for a cheesy note. If you want extra veggies, zucchini or mushrooms make great additions without changing the carb count much.
Serving suggestions
Serve this Keto Tuscan Soup with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a drizzle of good quality olive oil on top. Pair with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables to round out the meal. For garlic lovers, crispy garlic chips garnish beautifully.
This creamy Keto Tuscan Soup is perfect for cozy nights and works well for meal prep. Enjoy warm with a sprinkle of Parmesan or fresh herbs.
Your Recipe Questions Answered
- → What protein options work well in this dish?
Chicken breasts or thighs are ideal, but you can substitute with sausage, turkey, or beef for varied flavors and textures.
- → Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, replace heavy cream with coconut cream or almond milk, and omit Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
- → How do I thicken the broth if desired?
Reduce the amount of broth or partially blend some soup before adding cream and cheese for a thicker consistency.
- → What herbs enhance the flavor best?
Dried basil and oregano bring authentic Tuscan notes, complemented by fresh parsley or basil for garnish.
- → How long does it take to prepare this dish?
Preparation takes about 10 minutes, and cooking around 20-25 minutes, totaling approximately 30-35 minutes.