There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of chicken soup to soothe the soul and comfort the body. Whether it’s a chilly evening, a cozy family dinner, or just one of those days when you crave something rich and satisfying, this creamy chicken soup is pure perfection. With the deep flavor of sun-dried tomatoes, tender rotisserie chicken, and a velvety cream base, this recipe elevates the classic chicken soup into something truly special.

Why Chicken Soup Is the Ultimate Comfort Food

Chicken soup has been cherished for centuries across cultures as the go-to comfort dish for healing, warmth, and nourishment. From traditional Jewish matzo ball soup to spicy Asian broths, every version tells a story. The beauty of this creamy chicken soup lies in its balance — the heartiness of chicken, the silkiness of cream cheese and Parmesan, and the tang of sun-dried tomatoes.

Beyond flavor, chicken soup is known to:

• Support hydration and digestion

• Provide protein and essential nutrients

• Offer anti-inflammatory benefits from herbs and garlic

• Soothe sore throats and boost the immune system

So, not only does it taste heavenly, but it also feels like a hug from the inside out.

Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Soup

Before you start, make sure you have everything ready. Mise en place (prepping ingredients beforehand) ensures a smooth cooking process.

Main Ingredients

• ½ cup drained julienne-cut sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil with herbs

• 1 tablespoon oil from the sun-dried tomato jar, divided

• 1 ½ 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)

• 2 teaspoons kosher salt

• 1 ½ 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 (room temperature)

• 1 ½ ounces Parmesan cheese, finely shredded (plus more for garnish)

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat 1 tablespoon of the oil from the sun-dried tomato jar in a large Dutch oven over medium heat until shimmering.
Add chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking for 3–4 minutes until they turn translucent and fragrant. This forms the flavor foundation for the soup.

Step 2: Enrich with Tomato Paste and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Add tomato paste and the sun-dried tomatoes to the pot. Stir constantly for about 2 minutes until the tomato paste deepens in color — this caramelization adds incredible depth and umami.

Step 3: Add the Liquids and Seasonings

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Add basil, salt, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper.
Stir and bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, letting the flavors marry for about 12 minutes.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Add the medium shell pasta directly into the simmering soup. Lower the heat to medium-low and cook until al dente, about 10–12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Add the Final Touches

Turn the heat down to low. Add the spinach, shredded chicken, cream cheese, and Parmesan. Stir gently until the cheeses melt and the chicken is heated through — about 5 minutes.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Ladle into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan, fresh basil, and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for a beautiful presentation. Serve immediately with warm bread or garlic toast.

 Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Soup

1. Use rotisserie chicken — It saves time and adds rich, roasted flavor.

2. Room-temperature cream cheese blends smoothly into the broth without clumps.

3. Adjust thickness — Add a splash of broth for a lighter consistency or let it simmer longer for a thicker, creamier soup.

4. Don’t overcook the pasta — The shells will continue to soften slightly in the hot soup.

5. Add greens at the end — This keeps the spinach vibrant and fresh rather than mushy.

 Flavor Variations You’ll Love

• Spicy Tuscan Twist: Add extra crushed red pepper or a pinch of cayenne.

• Low-Carb Version: Skip the pasta and add more spinach or zucchini noodles.

• Herb Upgrade: Swap basil for thyme, oregano, or rosemary for a different aromatic profile.

• Cheese Lovers’ Dream: Stir in shredded mozzarella for extra creaminess.

• Vegetable Boost: Add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or carrots for added texture.

 People Also Ask (PAA)

What makes chicken soup so comforting?

Chicken soup combines warm broth, tender protein, and mild spices — a trifecta that triggers both physical and emotional comfort. The heat soothes your body, while the nostalgic aroma recalls family memories and cozy nights in.

Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Leftover roasted or baked chicken works beautifully here. Simply shred or chop it, and add it in the final step with the cream cheese and Parmesan.

How do I make chicken soup creamy without heavy cream?

You can replace heavy cream with milk and a tablespoon of cornstarch or simply increase the cream cheese and Parmesan quantities. Coconut milk also offers a dairy-free creamy option.

Can I freeze this creamy chicken soup?

Yes — but do it before adding the pasta and dairy. Freeze the base, then add pasta, cream cheese, and cream after reheating to maintain the best texture.

How long does chicken soup last in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, it keeps for 3–4 days in the refrigerator. Gently reheat over medium-low heat to preserve creaminess.

 Serving Ideas for Chicken Soup

Pair this luscious soup with:

• Garlic bread or herbed focaccia for dipping

• Fresh side salad with vinaigrette to balance the richness

• Grilled cheese sandwiches for a hearty lunch combo

• Crusty sourdough rolls for soaking up every drop

For a rustic presentation, serve it in stoneware bowls and top with an extra swirl of cream and a sprinkle of Parmesan.

 Health Benefits of Chicken Soup

Beyond its irresistible flavor, chicken soup offers nutritional value:

• Protein: Supports muscle recovery and satiety.

• Garlic & Basil: Naturally antibacterial and immune-boosting.

• Spinach: Rich in iron, vitamins A and K.

• Bone Broth Base: Contains collagen and amino acids that promote joint health.

In essence, this creamy chicken soup isn’t just comfort food — it’s a nourishing meal for body and mind.

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 Quick Recap

Final Thoughts: The Comfort of Homemade Chicken Soup

In every culture, chicken soup represents warmth, family, and love. This creamy chicken soup recipe takes that timeless tradition and gives it a modern, indulgent twist. The combination of Italian-inspired ingredients — sun-dried tomatoes, basil, Parmesan, and cream — creates a soul-satisfying dish that’s elegant enough for guests yet simple enough for weeknight dinners.

Next time you’re craving comfort in a bowl, skip the takeout and whip up this homemade version. It’s rich, flavorful, and guaranteed to bring smiles around the table.

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