Chicken Pasta Soup with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Chicken Pasta Soup with Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a comforting and vibrant soup combining tender chicken, al dente small pasta, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes in a flavorful broth. It’s quick to prepare, nutritious, and perfect for a cozy meal any day of the week.
- Author: Julia
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free (if using gluten-free pasta)
Protein
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup fresh spinach or kale, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably packed in oil)
Liquids
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Pasta
- 3/4 cup small pasta shapes such as ditalini, orzo, or small shells
Seasonings
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Prepare the Base: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until translucent and fragrant to release their flavors.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the diced chicken breasts or thighs to the pot and brown slightly, sealing in the juices to keep the meat tender and flavorful.
- Add Broth and Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Pour in 6 cups of chicken broth along with 1/2 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the broth to absorb the tangy tomato flavors.
- Cook the Pasta: Once simmering, add 3/4 cup of small pasta shapes such as ditalini, orzo, or small shells. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes until the pasta is al dente.
- Incorporate Greens and Seasonings: Stir in 1 cup of fresh spinach or kale and sprinkle 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Let the greens wilt naturally in the hot broth, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve Warm: Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy fresh and warm, optionally garnishing with fresh basil, grated Parmesan, or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
Notes
- Use high-quality sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for extra flavor and softness.
- Do not overcook the pasta; add it later and cook just until al dente to prevent mushiness.
- For better texture and broth absorption, shred the chicken after cooking.
- Simmer gently once pasta is added to prevent ingredients from breaking down.
- If the soup becomes too thick after cooking, add extra water or broth to adjust the consistency.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1 1/2 cups)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
Keywords: chicken pasta soup, sun-dried tomatoes, comfort food, quick soup, Italian soup, healthy soup, small pasta soup