Chicken Pasta Soup with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, let me introduce you to the incredible Chicken Pasta Soup with Sun-Dried Tomatoes. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between hearty and fresh, combining tender chicken, al dente pasta, and the tangy punch of sun-dried tomatoes in a flavorful broth that’s both comforting and vibrant. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch, this soup brings together simple ingredients with bold flavors, making it an absolute winner every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comfort in a Bowl: This soup offers a rich and soothing experience that feels like home with every spoonful.
• Bright and Tangy Flavors: The sun-dried tomatoes add a perfect pop of acidity that elevates the entire dish.
• Nutritious and Satisfying: Packed with protein and wholesome ingredients, it’s a balanced meal on its own.
• Quick and Easy to Make: Ready in under 40 minutes with simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Chicken Pasta Soup with Sun-Dried Tomatoes plays a pivotal role, whether it’s creating depth of flavor, adding texture, or bringing color to the bowl. You won’t need anything fancy—just a handful of essentials you likely have on hand, combined to create something truly special.

• Chicken Breast or Thighs: Use boneless, skinless pieces for tender, juicy protein.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a concentrated, tangy kick that brightens up the broth.
• Chicken Broth: The flavorful base that ties all the elements together.
• Pasta (small shapes): Choose ditalini, orzo, or small shells for perfect bite-sized pasta.
• Onion and Garlic: Foundations of flavor, sautéed until fragrant.
• Spinach or Kale: Greens that add color and nutrients, wilted gently into the soup.
• Olive Oil: For sautéing and bringing out richness.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs to deepen the aromatic profile.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.

Variations for Chicken Pasta Soup with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

The beauty of Chicken Pasta Soup with Sun-Dried Tomatoes is that it’s incredibly adaptable, allowing you to tweak it to fit your personal tastes or dietary preferences. Feel free to experiment to make it your own!

• Swap Proteins: Use shredded rotisserie chicken or even turkey for a different flavor twist.
• Make It Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk for a richer texture.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with chickpeas and vegetable broth for a plant-based delight.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for some heat.
• Gluten-Free Pasta: Use gluten-free or spiralized vegetables as pasta alternatives.

How to Make Chicken Pasta Soup with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and garlic, cooking until translucent and fragrant, which releases the essential flavors that form the heart of the soup.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Add diced chicken breasts or thighs to the pot and brown them slightly, sealing in juices. This step ensures the meat stays tender and flavorful throughout cooking.

Step 3: Add Broth and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Pour in chicken broth along with chopped sun-dried tomatoes, allowing the mixture to come to a gentle simmer. The broth absorbs the rich, tangy flavors of the tomatoes, developing a mouthwatering base.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Once the broth is simmering, add your choice of small pasta shapes. Cook until the pasta is just tender, which usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes depending on the type.

Step 5: Incorporate Greens and Seasonings

Stir in fresh spinach or kale and sprinkle your Italian seasoning. Let the greens wilt naturally in the hot broth, then taste and adjust salt and pepper to your liking.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Once everything is cooked through, ladle the soup into bowls. This is best enjoyed fresh and warm, enhancing all the layered flavors.

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Pasta Soup with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

• Use High-Quality Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Opt for those packed in oil for extra flavor and softness.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Add pasta later and cook until al dente to prevent mushiness.
• Shred Chicken for Texture: After cooking, shred the chicken for easier eating and better broth absorption.
• Simmer Gently: Keep the heat low once pasta is added to avoid breaking down ingredients.
• Adjust Broth Thickness: Add water or more broth if the soup feels too thick after pasta cooks.

How to Serve Chicken Pasta Soup with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Garnishes

Add fresh basil leaves, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan, or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil on top to elevate the soup’s aroma and taste.

Side Dishes

Pair with crusty garlic bread, a simple green salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in rustic bowls with toasted focaccia on the side, or ladle into hollowed-out bread bowls for a fun and hearty presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Chicken Pasta Soup with Sun-Dried Tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

Freezing

This soup freezes beautifully; store in freezer-safe containers and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Avoid freezing with pasta to prevent texture loss—add freshly cooked pasta when reheating.

Reheating

Warm leftovers gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, and add extra broth or water if the soup thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs bring a richer flavor and stay tender during cooking, making them an excellent choice for this soup.

Are sun-dried tomatoes necessary?

While sun-dried tomatoes add a unique tangy flavor, you can substitute with roasted tomatoes or cherry tomatoes for a fresh twist, though the taste will differ slightly.

What kind of pasta works best?

Small pasta shapes like ditalini, orzo, or small shells are ideal because they cook quickly and fit perfectly on a spoon with soup.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, simply swap chicken and chicken broth for plant-based alternatives like chickpeas and vegetable broth, and you’ll have a delicious vegetarian version.

How long does this soup take to cook?

From start to finish, expect about 30 to 40 minutes, making it a quick meal option even on busy days.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Pasta Soup with Sun-Dried Tomatoes is truly a gem in the recipe world. It’s flavorful, nourishing, and remarkably easy to prepare, perfect for when you need something special but straightforward. I encourage you to give this one a try—it’s sure to become a comforting favorite you’ll return to again and again.

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