As the chill of winter settles in, I find myself reaching for cozy, nostalgic soups that wrap me in warmth. One particularly soul-soothing bowl I’ve fallen in love with is this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Soup. Its enchanting aroma blends the richness of sun-dried tomatoes with the vibrant essence of fresh vegetables, instantly transporting me to a comforting haven.
On a recent snow-dusted evening, I whipped up this dish after realizing I had been stuck in a fast-food rut. With just a handful of ingredients, including tender chicken and aromatic herbs, I discovered that this soup could bring the family together around the table while delivering a heartfelt meal without hours of preparation.
Whether you opt for the homemade broth or take a shortcut with rotisserie chicken, this soup is adaptable to your schedule and palate. So, grab your favorite pot, and let’s create something divine that brings the hearth back into your home this winter!
Why is Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Soup a must-try?
Comforting Warmth: On chilly nights, this soup is the perfect cozy companion, bringing warmth that wraps around you like a favorite blanket.
Rich, Bold Flavor: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh veggies creates a savory experience that’s hard to resist.
Easily Adaptable: Choose between homemade broth or a quick rotisserie chicken option; either way, you will love the outcome!
Quick to Prepare: With straightforward steps and minimal fuss, you’ll have a sumptuous meal in no time.
Family-Friendly Appeal: This dish is a hit with both adults and kids alike, making it a great choice for family dinners.
Elevate your mealtime by exploring other soup recipes that can bring warmth and joy to your table!
Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Whole Chicken – Main protein that provides rich flavor. Note: You can use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
• Water – Used to create a flavorful broth.
• Kosher Salt – Essential for enhancing all the flavors; adjust to your taste.
• Olive Oil – Adds richness and is perfect for sautéing the veggies.
For the Vegetables
• Yellow Onion – Key flavor base for the soup; note: shallots work well for a milder taste.
• Carrots – Adds natural sweetness; fresh or frozen varieties will do.
• Celery – Vital for the mirepoix, which builds the soup’s foundation; fresh is best.
• Garlic Powder/Minced Garlic – For aromatic depth; fresh garlic can enhance the flavor.
For the Flavoring
• Dry Thyme – Provides a lovely herbal note; fresh thyme can be substituted.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Adds heat; feel free to adjust to your preference.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Contribute tangy and savory goodness; fresh tomatoes can lighten the dish.
For the Soup Ingredients
• Chicken Broth – The soup’s base; homemade is ideal, but store-bought works too.
• Dry Ditalini – Adds heartiness to the soup; you can swap it for other small pasta varieties.
• Heavy Cream – Creates a velvety, rich texture; alternatively, use milk or cashew cream for a lighter touch.
• Baby Spinach – Offers a fresh, vibrant touch; kale is a great substitute.
For the Finishing Touches
• Lemon Juice – Brightens and balances the flavors; lime juice is a perfect alternative.
• Parmesan Cheese – Garnishes the soup with umami richness; nutritional yeast is a dairy-free substitute.
• Fresh Basil Leaves – Adds a fragrant finish; other herbs like parsley can also be used.
With these ingredients, you’ll be on your way to crafting a heartwarming Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Soup that embodies comfort and deliciousness!
How to Make Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Soup
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Make the Broth: Boil the whole chicken in water with kosher salt for about 1 hour, or until tender. Once cooked, cool the chicken, shred the meat, and reserve the delicious broth.
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Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced yellow onion, chopped carrots, and celery; sauté for 8-10 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant.
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Seasoning: Stir in garlic powder, dry thyme, and crushed red pepper flakes; cook for an additional minute to release their aromatic qualities.
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Combine Ingredients: Add sun-dried tomatoes and your homemade broth to the pot; bring everything to a boil, then add the shredded chicken and let it simmer for 30 minutes to meld those flavors.
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Cook Pasta Separately: In a separate pot, boil ditalini in salted water until just under al dente; drain and set aside.
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Finish Soup: Stir in the cooked pasta, heavy cream, and baby spinach; allow it to simmer gently for an additional 5 minutes. Adjust flavors with lemon juice, salt, and pepper just before serving.
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Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan, fresh basil, and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper for that extra touch.
Optional: Serve with crusty bread for dipping!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Soup Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on this comforting soup and make it uniquely yours!
- Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker option, substitute the whole chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken, saving you time on prep.
- Kale Instead of Spinach: Use hearty kale for a nutritional boost, bringing a lovely texture and more robust flavor to your soup.
- Chickpeas or Barley: Swap ditalini for chickpeas or barley for an entirely different texture and added heartiness in your soup.
- Herb Twist: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill or oregano; they introduce unique flavor profiles that can brighten up each bowl.
- Lighten It Up: Use half-and-half or cashew cream instead of heavy cream for a lighter version without sacrificing creaminess.
- Fresh Tomatoes: If you prefer a fresher taste, substitute the sun-dried tomatoes with diced fresh tomatoes for a vibrant and lighter variant.
- Spice It Up: Increase the heat by adding more crushed red pepper flakes or even some diced jalapeños for a kick!
- Vegetable Medley: Toss in a mix of your favorite vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers, making the soup even more colorful and nutritious.
Each variation can offer a new delightful experience, allowing you to enjoy this dish in countless ways throughout the winter season!
Expert Tips for Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Soup
- Perfect Shredding: Cook the chicken until it’s tender for easy shredding. If using rotisserie chicken, choose one that’s juicy.
- Broth Balance: To avoid a too-thick soup, add extra broth or cream until you reach your desired consistency.
- Vegetable Freshness: Use fresh veggies for the best flavor; frozen can work, but they may alter the texture slightly.
- Spice Control: Adjust red pepper flakes based on spice preference; start with less and add more if needed for heat.
- Storage Savvy: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, but keep pasta separate when freezing to maintain texture.
How to Store and Freeze Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Soup
Fridge: Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it down before refrigerating.
Freezer: Freeze portions of the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. For best results, keep the pasta separate to maintain its texture.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the soup overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or cream for creaminess if needed.
Tip: Remember, the sun-dried tomato chicken soup is versatile—you can easily adapt its ingredients to suit your taste or available pantry items!
Make Ahead Options
This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Soup is perfect for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the broth and sauté the vegetables up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flavors to deepen. Simply refrigerate the broth and cooked veggies in airtight containers. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat them gently on the stove, then add your shredded chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and finish by stirring in the cooked pasta, cream, and spinach. This way, you’ll achieve just as delicious and comforting a soup with minimal effort—all while keeping those vibrant flavors intact!
What to Serve with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Soup?
When it comes to creating the perfect winter meal, pairing it with complementary sides elevates the experience.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for dunking, the golden crust encases soft, warm bread that will soak up the soup’s creamy goodness.
- Mixed Green Salad: A bright and fresh salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup, adding a refreshing crunch.
- Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky flavor of this classic side amplifies the savory tones of the soup, making for a delightful feast.
- Cheesy Breadsticks: Soft, cheesy breadsticks not only add comfort but also a rich, melty indulgence alongside each spoonful of soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables brings an earthy flavor that enhances the soup while providing nutritious variety.
- Pesto Pasta: A light pasta dish tossed in fresh pesto contrasts beautifully with the creamy texture of the soup, adding another layer of flavor.
- Lemon Tart: Finish your meal with a zesty lemon tart. Its bright acidity cleanses the palate while hinting at the soup’s own brightness.
- Herbal Tea: Sip on a warm herbal tea to complement the flavors; its soothing warmth lets the heartiness of the meal linger delightfully.
- Red Wine: A glass of dry red wine serves to enhance the richness of the soup, offering a comforting companion as you enjoy every bite.
Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for this soup?
You can use a whole chicken to create a rich homemade broth, or for convenience, opt for rotisserie chicken. If using rotisserie chicken, shredded meat can be added straight to the soup without the broth-making step.
How do I store leftover Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Soup?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to allow the soup to cool before sealing it, which helps preserve its quality. When reheating, do so gently over medium heat to maintain the soup’s creaminess.
Can I freeze Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Soup?
Absolutely! You can freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. It’s best to keep the ditalini pasta separate if you plan to freeze it, as this helps prevent it from getting mushy when reheated. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream for a creamy texture.
What should I do if the soup is too thick?
If your Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Soup turns out thicker than you’d like, simply add more chicken broth or cream until it reaches your desired consistency. This adjustment can be made when reheating as well!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Definitely! If you have a dairy allergy, consider using cashew cream or a dairy-free cheese substitute instead of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Additionally, always check labels for any store-bought ingredients like chicken broth for potential allergens.
What if I don’t have some of the ingredients?
No worries! This soup is very adaptable. You can substitute yellow onion with shallots, carrots with peas, or even use kale instead of spinach. If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, fresh tomatoes will work too, just keep in mind that they may provide a lighter flavor. The more the merrier, as it encourages creativity in the kitchen!
Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Soup Recipe FAQs
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Soup to Thrill Your Tastebuds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Boil the whole chicken in water with kosher salt for about 1 hour, or until tender. Once cooked, cool the chicken, shred the meat, and reserve the broth.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced yellow onion, chopped carrots, and celery; sauté for 8-10 minutes until softened.
- Stir in garlic powder, dry thyme, and crushed red pepper flakes; cook for an additional minute.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes and chicken broth to the pot; bring everything to a boil, then add the shredded chicken and let it simmer for 30 minutes.
- In a separate pot, boil ditalini in salted water until just under al dente; drain and set aside.
- Stir in the cooked pasta, heavy cream, and baby spinach; allow to simmer gently for 5 minutes. Adjust flavors with lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan, fresh basil, and cracked black pepper.
