Sun-Dried Tomato Soup with Chicken

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of creamy soup, especially when it’s packed with rich Italian-inspired flavors. This Sun-Dried Tomato Soup with Chicken is the perfect cozy meal for chilly evenings, busy weeknights, or whenever you’re craving something hearty yet elegant.

Made in just one pot, this easy sun-dried tomato chicken soup combines tender chicken, savory tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and a luxuriously creamy broth that’s bursting with bold flavor. The sun-dried tomatoes add a deep, slightly sweet tanginess, while cream cheese and parmesan create a velvety texture that makes every spoonful irresistibly satisfying.

It’s the kind of homemade soup that feels restaurant-worthy but comes together effortlessly in your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy one-pot meal with minimal cleanup
• Rich, creamy Italian-style broth
• Packed with tender chicken and bold tomato flavor
• Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
• Comforting, hearty, and family-friendly

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing and building flavor
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped – Adds sweetness and depth
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced – Brings rich aromatic flavor

Protein

• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into pieces – Tender, juicy, and flavorful

Broth and Tomatoes

• 5 cups chicken broth – Creates the savory soup base
• 14½ ounces canned diced tomatoes with garlic and onion – Adds brightness and richness
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste – Intensifies tomato flavor
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped – Deep concentrated tomato sweetness

Creamy Elements

• 1 recipe or 10-ounce can cream of mushroom soup – Adds body and creamy texture
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened – Creates velvety richness
• ½ cup parmesan cheese – Nutty, salty finish

Seasonings

• 1½ tablespoons Italian seasoning – Classic herbaceous flavor
• 1 bay leaf – Adds aromatic depth
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional) – Balances acidity
• Salt and pepper to taste – Enhances all flavors

How to Make Sun-Dried Tomato Soup with Chicken

Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat.

Add chopped onion and cook for about 8 minutes until soft and translucent.

Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Tip: Don’t rush this step—it builds the soup’s flavor foundation.

Add the Main Ingredients

Add chicken pieces, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, cream of mushroom soup, tomato paste, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, bay leaf, and optional sugar.

Stir everything together until well combined.

Simmer the Soup

Bring the soup to a gentle simmer.

Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for about 20 minutes.

The chicken will become tender and absorb all the rich Italian-style flavors.

Add the Cream Cheese

Remove the bay leaf.

In a separate bowl, whisk softened cream cheese with a few ladles of hot soup broth until smooth.

Slowly stir this mixture back into the soup.

Tip: This prevents lumps and creates a silky smooth broth.

Finish with Parmesan

Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and fully incorporated.

Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.

Warm through gently before serving.

Tips for Success

• Soften cream cheese before adding for a smoother broth
• Add sugar gradually if the tomatoes taste too acidic
• Use chicken thighs for extra tenderness and flavor
• Stir often after adding dairy to avoid sticking
• Let the soup rest for 5 minutes before serving for fuller flavor

Equipment Needed

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Whisk
• Mixing bowl
• Cutting board and knife

Alternative: A deep stockpot works just as well.

Recipe Variations

Spicy Sun-Dried Tomato Soup

Add red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

Lighter Version

Use low-fat cream cheese and reduced-fat cream of mushroom soup.

Extra Veggie Version

Add spinach, kale, or mushrooms.

Low-Carb Version

Skip cream of mushroom soup and add extra broth with cream cheese.

Serving Suggestions

This easy sun-dried tomato soup with chicken pairs beautifully with:

• Crusty artisan bread
• Garlic toast
• Caesar salad
• Fresh basil garnish
• Grated parmesan on top

A drizzle of olive oil adds an extra elegant finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast works well but may be slightly less tender.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, though dairy-based soups may need extra stirring when reheated.

Why is my soup too tangy?

Add small amounts of sugar to balance tomato acidity.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. The flavors deepen beautifully overnight.

What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?

You can use homemade cream sauce or cream of chicken soup.

Final Thoughts

This Sun-Dried Tomato Soup with Chicken is the perfect balance of creamy comfort and bold Italian-inspired flavor. With tender chicken, rich sun-dried tomatoes, and a luscious parmesan broth, it’s a dish that feels both cozy and elevated.

Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner, meal prepping for the week, or enjoying it with crusty bread on a cool evening, this easy homemade soup is sure to become a favorite. Give it a try and enjoy every creamy, savory spoonful.

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