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This ultra-cozy Creamy Chicken Soup is like a warm hug in a bowl. Tender rotisserie chicken, a rich and velvety broth, and sun-dried tomatoes bring a deep savory flavor that pairs perfectly with pasta. It is the ultimate easy comfort food perfect for busy weeknights
I love making this soup when I need something fast but comforting. It has saved me more than once on hectic evenings
- Olive oil: adds richness and helps build flavor at the start
- Yellow onion: provides natural sweetness and depth
- Rotisserie chicken: makes this fast and packed with flavor
- Cream of chicken soup: thickens the base and adds savory notes
- Heavy cream: gives the soup its luscious texture
- Water: balances the richness while cooking the pasta
- Pasta: adds heartiness and makes it a full meal
- Sun-dried tomatoes: bring tangy intense flavor
- Smoked paprika: gives a subtle warm smoky depth
- Fresh spinach: adds color and a nutritional boost
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes until soft and fragrant
- Build the Base:
- Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken and the cream of chicken soup. Mix thoroughly to combine flavors
- Create the Creamy Broth:
- Pour in the heavy cream and water. Stir gently and bring to a gentle boil while mixing continuously
- Cook the Pasta:
- Add pasta and sun-dried tomatoes. Reduce heat slightly and simmer for around 10 minutes until pasta is just tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking
- Finish with Flavor:
- Add smoked paprika salt pepper and fresh spinach. Stir until the spinach wilts about 1 minute then turn off the heat
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Ladle into warm bowls and serve immediately for best texture and flavor
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Storage Tips
Keep leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much. Avoid freezing with pasta already in it as it tends to get mushy. If you plan to freeze cook the pasta separately and add it fresh when reheating
Ingredient Substitutions
You can easily swap yellow onion for shallots or leeks. Rotisserie chicken can be replaced with leftover turkey or any cooked shredded chicken. For a lighter touch use coconut milk instead of cream and homemade broth instead of cream of chicken soup
Serving Suggestions
This soup pairs perfectly with crusty bread or a simple green salad. Try sprinkling some grated Parmesan or adding a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for brightness. A side of garlic toast turns it into a cozy dinner
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Cultural Context
Creamy chicken soups are a beloved staple in many Western kitchens. This version adds a pasta twist that feels almost Italian while still giving that nostalgic American chicken soup comfort. It is the kind of dish you find in a family kitchen rather than a fancy restaurant
The sun-dried tomatoes are my favorite part They deliver so much flavor in just a few bites. My sister once asked for seconds before even finishing her first bowl
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → Can I use raw chicken instead of rotisserie?
Yes, simply dice or shred boneless chicken breasts or thighs and cook them thoroughly with the onions before adding other ingredients.
- → What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
Try a homemade sauce using butter, flour, chicken broth, and milk, or swap in cream of mushroom soup for a flavorful twist.
- → How do I prevent pasta from becoming mushy?
Add the pasta later in the cooking process and monitor it closely. Stop cooking once it’s tender but still firm to the bite.
- → Is there a dairy-free option for this soup?
Yes, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and substitute the cream of chicken soup with a dairy-free alternative or broth-based sauce.
- → What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For freezing, omit pasta or cook it separately to avoid sogginess.