Creamy Chicken & Spinach Soup with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

If you are searching for the ultimate comfort food that fills your kitchen with delightful aromas and your bowl with creamy goodness, look no further than Creamy Chicken & Spinach Soup with Sun-Dried Tomatoes. This dish blends tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and the rich umami flavor of sun-dried tomatoes into a luxurious, velvety soup that’s perfect for chilly days or whenever you crave something warm and satisfying. It’s a soul-soothing recipe that combines freshness with indulgence in every spoonful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy Comfort: The silky base makes every bite feel like a warm hug on a cold day.
• Fresh and Vibrant Flavors: Spinach and sun-dried tomatoes perfectly balance creaminess with bright, fresh notes.
• Simple Ingredients, Big Impact: Easy-to-find staples come together for a gourmet taste without the fuss.
• Protein-Packed Meal: Tender chicken adds satisfying substance and nutrition to each serving.
• Flexible and Adaptable: Suitable to customize for different dietary preferences or what’s in your pantry.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses straightforward, wholesome ingredients that deliver incredible taste and texture. Each component plays a key role in building layers of flavor that make this soup special and comforting.

• Chicken Breasts or Thighs: Provides tender, juicy protein with a mild flavor that absorbs seasoning well.
• Fresh Spinach: Adds vibrant color, earthy freshness, and healthy greens.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Brings rich sweetness and a slightly tangy umami boost to the soup.
• Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half: Creates the luscious creamy texture that gives the soup its signature smoothness.
• Garlic and Onion: Foundational aromatics that build depth and warmth early on.
• Chicken Broth: Forms the savory base and enhances all other ingredients.
• Olive Oil or Butter: Used for sautéing, giving a subtle richness to the flavor profile.
• Seasonings (Salt, Pepper, Italian Herbs): Essential for balancing and elevating taste perfectly.

Variations for Creamy Chicken & Spinach Soup with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

This recipe is wonderfully versatile, so feel free to adjust ingredients or flavors to suit your preferences, dietary needs, or pantry availability. You’ll find it easy to make your own spin on this classic creamy chicken soup.

• Make It Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream for a lactose-free option.
• Add Heat: Toss in crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a spicy kick.
• Swap Spinach for Kale: Use hearty kale for a more robust texture and earthy flavor.
• Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker version, shredded pre-cooked chicken works beautifully.
• Turn It Into a Low-Carb Meal: Skip any flour thickeners if used and embrace the natural creaminess of the soup.

How to Make Creamy Chicken & Spinach Soup with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Step 1: Prepare and Sauté Aromatics

Start by finely chopping the onion and garlic, then sauté them in olive oil or butter over medium heat until soft and fragrant. This step is the flavor foundation, infusing the soup with warmth and depth.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Add the chicken breasts or thighs to the pot and cook until browned on all sides but not fully cooked through; this seals in juices and ensures tender meat.

Step 3: Add Broth and Simmer

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Let the chicken finish cooking in the broth, extracting all its richness into the soup base.

Step 4: Incorporate Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Seasonings

Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes along with salt, pepper, and your choice of Italian herbs. This step layers in bright, tangy notes that complement the creamy texture.

Step 5: Blend or Shred Chicken

Remove the chicken, shred or dice it, then return it to the pot. For an even smoother soup, you can blend a portion of the broth and vegetables before adding the chicken back.

Step 6: Add Spinach and Cream

Fold in fresh spinach and heavy cream, allowing the spinach to wilt gently and the cream to enrich the soup until it reaches desired thickness and creaminess.

Step 7: Final Taste Check

Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or herbs, then simmer for a few more minutes to meld all the flavors beautifully before serving.

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Chicken & Spinach Soup with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

• Use Homemade Broth: It adds richer flavor compared to store-bought versions.
• Don’t Overcook Spinach: Add it last to retain color and nutrients.
• Toast Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Quickly sauté them to amplify their flavors before adding.
• Cream Alternatives: Greek yogurt can be a lighter substitute to maintain creaminess.
• Consistency Control: Adjust broth or cream quantities for your preferred soup thickness.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken & Spinach Soup with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, a few torn basil leaves, or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can elevate the look and taste, adding a gourmet finish.

Side Dishes

Pair this rich soup with crusty artisan bread, garlic toast, or a simple green salad for a complete, satisfying meal that balances creaminess with crunch and freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve it in warm bread bowls, or top with crispy bacon bits or toasted pine nuts for texture contrasts that surprise and delight.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezing

Freeze soup in portioned freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months; note that cream-based soups may separate slightly but can be re-emulsified when reheated.

Reheating

Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent curdling and restoring the creamy texture by adding a splash of broth or cream if needed.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach works well, but be sure to thaw and drain excess water before adding to avoid soggy soup.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This soup keeps well, making it a perfect make-ahead lunch or dinner option that reheats beautifully.

Can I substitute chicken with turkey or tofu?

Yes, turkey works great for similar flavor and texture, while tofu offers a vegetarian option but will change the soup’s profile slightly.

How can I thicken the soup more?

To thicken, reduce the broth by simmering longer or add a slurry of cornstarch and water towards the end of cooking.

Do sun-dried tomatoes need to be rinsed?

It’s best to choose oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for richness; if using dry, rehydrate them in warm water and drain to soften before adding.

Final Thoughts

There’s truly something special about a bowl of Creamy Chicken & Spinach Soup with Sun-Dried Tomatoes—its comforting warmth and vibrant taste make it a must-try anytime you need a cozy meal. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this soup is sure to become a beloved favorite in your recipe collection. So, gather those fresh ingredients and dive into this creamy, flavorful delight—you won’t regret it!

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