Chicken Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this soup for its creamy texture and complex flavors from sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil. It’s easy to make with pantry staples and rotisserie chicken, making it convenient yet impressive. The combination of cream cheese and Parmesan adds a luscious richness that elevates classic chicken soup into something special.

Ingredients

½ cup drained julienne-cut sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil with herbs
1 tablespoon oil from sun-dried tomato jar, divided
1½ cups chopped yellow onion
4 medium garlic cloves, minced (about 4 teaspoons)
3 tablespoons tomato paste
2 (32-ounce) packages chicken broth
1 cup heavy whipping cream
4 teaspoons chopped fresh basil, plus more for garnish (optional)
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1½ teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper, plus more for garnish
8 ounces uncooked medium shell pasta
3 cups packed roughly chopped fresh baby spinach
2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
8 ounces cream cheese, cubed, at room temperature
1½ ounces Parmesan cheese, finely shredded, plus more for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large pot, heat half the oil from the sun-dried tomato jar over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add minced garlic and tomato paste; cook, stirring frequently, for 2 minutes.
3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
4. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, chopped fresh basil, salt, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper. Simmer gently for 10 minutes.
5. Add uncooked pasta and cook until al dente, about 8–10 minutes.
6. Stir in chopped spinach, shredded chicken, cream cheese, remaining sun-dried tomato oil, and Parmesan cheese. Cook until spinach is wilted and cream cheese has melted into the soup, about 3–5 minutes.
7. Remove from heat and adjust seasoning if needed.
8. Serve hot, garnished with extra basil, Parmesan, and crushed red pepper if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Substitute rotisserie chicken with cooked shredded chicken breast or thighs.
• Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
• Add mushrooms or bell peppers for extra vegetables.
• Swap heavy cream for half-and-half for a lighter soup.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent curdling. Avoid boiling after adding cream cheese for best texture.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?

Sun-dried tomatoes provide a concentrated flavor, but fresh tomatoes can be used with a longer simmer for depth.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats well and flavors often improve after resting overnight.

Is this soup spicy?

It has a mild heat from crushed red pepper; adjust to your preference.

Can I freeze leftover soup?

Yes, but the cream and pasta may change texture upon thawing; consider freezing without pasta.

What cheese can I substitute for cream cheese?

Mascarpone or ricotta can be alternatives but will slightly change texture.

How do I prevent the soup from becoming too thick?

Add extra chicken broth or water when reheating to thin if needed.

Can I omit the cream cheese?

Yes, but the soup will be less creamy and rich.

Can I use store-bought cooked chicken?

Rotisserie or leftover cooked chicken works perfectly.

How do I make this soup dairy-free?

Use dairy-free cream cheese alternatives and skip or substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, sauté onions and garlic first, then combine all ingredients except cream cheese and pasta in the slow cooker. Add cream cheese and pasta during the last 30 minutes.

Conclusion

This Chicken Soup with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Cream Cheese is a comforting and flavorful meal that combines the best of creamy textures and fresh, savory ingredients. Perfect for a cozy night in, it’s simple to prepare and versatile enough to customize. Enjoy this hearty soup as a satisfying dinner or a warming lunch.

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