If you are craving a comforting bowl that warms you inside out and brings vibrant flavors to the table, look no further than the Best Chicken Tomato Soup Recipe. This soup combines tender shredded chicken with the bright acidity of crushed tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and a touch of creaminess that makes every spoonful pure bliss. Whether a chilly evening calls for something cozy or you want a simple dish packed with hearty satisfaction, this recipe never disappoints. I’m so excited to share all the secrets to crafting this delicious, soul-soothing soup that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Best Chicken Tomato Soup Recipe lies in its simplicity and the quality of each ingredient. Every piece plays a unique role, from building layers of savory depth to adding texture and that gorgeous rich color that makes the soup irresistible.
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a shortcut that adds both flavor and convenience.
- 1 carrot (diced into 1/4-inch pieces): Adds natural sweetness and a gentle crunch to balance the acidity.
- 2 garlic cloves (freshly minced): Garlic infuses an aromatic warmth that elevates the entire soup.
- 1 tsp oregano (dried): This herb brings subtle earthiness and classic Mediterranean vibes.
- 1 tsp kosher salt: Essential for enhancing and balancing all the flavors.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the soup to a luscious, comforting consistency.
- 1/4 cup heavy cream: Adds richness and a velvety texture you’ll love.
- 1 medium onion (diced into 1/2-inch pieces): Brings sweetness and depth when sautéed to golden perfection.
- 28 oz whole tomatoes (canned, crushed by hand): The star ingredient providing vibrant acidity and body.
- 1.5 cups chicken broth: Introduces savory liquid warmth and melds all ingredients.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Used for sautéing, it adds a fruity richness to the base.
How to Make Best Chicken Tomato Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and carrot and cook until they soften and the onion turns translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute until fragrant. This step lays a flavorful foundation for the soup, releasing natural sweetness from the vegetables and the irresistible aroma of garlic.
Step 2: Toast the Flour
Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the softened veggies and stir consistently for about 2 minutes. Toasting the flour in this way will help it lose its raw edge and enrich the soup’s texture, ensuring it thickens smoothly without lumps.
Step 3: Incorporate Tomatoes and Broth
Next, carefully add the hand-crushed tomatoes along with the chicken broth to the pot. Stir eagerly to combine everything evenly. This mixture will simmer and meld together, allowing the bright tomato flavor to deepen while the broth adds savory balance.
Step 4: Add the Chicken and Seasonings
Pour in the shredded cooked chicken, sprinkle in the oregano and kosher salt, then stir well to distribute all the ingredients. The chicken offers a tender, meaty heart to the soup, while oregano gives it a fragrant herbal lift that’s simply irresistible.
Step 5: Simmer and Finish with Cream
Bring the soup to a gentle simmer and let it cook uncovered for about 15 minutes. This gives the flavors time to marry beautifully. Finally, stir in the heavy cream, which adds that special touch of richness and transforms the soup into a luscious, comforting bowl of goodness.
How to Serve Best Chicken Tomato Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Take your presentation up a notch by topping the soup with freshly chopped basil or parsley to add a bright, herbaceous pop of color and flavor. A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or a drizzle of good olive oil also brightens each spoonful wonderfully.
Side Dishes
The heartiness of this Best Chicken Tomato Soup Recipe pairs beautifully with a crusty loaf of bread or warm garlic toast for dipping. If you want something lighter, a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will balance the rich soup perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup in small bread bowls or hollowed-out mini pumpkins during fall. Another idea is to ladle it over cooked rice or pasta in individual bowls to create a one-bowl meal that feels both cozy and unique.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The Best Chicken Tomato Soup Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors actually deepen, making it even better the next day!
Freezing
This soup freezes wonderfully, so feel free to portion it out into freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just be mindful to add the cream after thawing if you want to maintain the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens too much after cooling, add a splash of chicken broth or water to get it back to your desired consistency without losing flavor.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Absolutely! While canned crushed tomatoes provide convenience and consistent acidity, fresh tomatoes that are well-ripened can bring a bright freshness to the soup. Just blanch, peel, and crush them before adding.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Simply substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or use plant-based chicken alternatives, and swap chicken broth for vegetable broth. You’ll still get a comforting soup full of flavor.
Can I use frozen chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?
Definitely. Just be sure to thaw and cook the chicken thoroughly before shredding and adding it to the soup. Rotisserie chicken adds extra seasoning, but homemade cooked chicken works just fine.
How spicy is this soup?
This Best Chicken Tomato Soup Recipe is mild and comforting by default. If you like a little heat, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when seasoning.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, but the soup won’t be as rich or creamy. For dairy-free options, coconut milk adds creaminess but will subtly change the flavor.
Final Thoughts
I’m so glad you’ve taken the time to explore this Best Chicken Tomato Soup Recipe with me. It’s truly one of those dishes that warms your heart and satisfies your soul with every spoonful. Whether you’re feeding family, impressing friends, or enjoying a quiet night in, this recipe stands ready to become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try and watch it quickly become your go-to comfort food!
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Best Chicken Tomato Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Best Chicken Tomato Soup is a comforting and creamy homemade soup featuring shredded cooked chicken, diced vegetables, and rich tomato broth. Perfect for a cozy meal, it combines hearty chicken, fragrant garlic and oregano, and the creaminess of heavy cream to deliver a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any season.
Ingredients
Chicken and Vegetables
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 1 carrot, diced into 1/4-inch pieces
- 1 medium onion, diced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 2 garlic cloves, freshly minced
Seasonings and Liquids
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 28 oz canned whole tomatoes, crushed by hand
- 1.5 cups chicken broth
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp olive oil (or any neutral oil like canola)
Thickening Agent
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (King Arthur all-purpose flour recommended)
Instructions
- Prepare the base: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions, carrots, and minced garlic, sautéing until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Add flour: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir well to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, to eliminate the raw flour taste and create a roux-like base for the soup.
- Add liquids and seasonings: Pour in the canned crushed tomatoes and chicken broth gradually while stirring to avoid lumps. Add the dried oregano and kosher salt, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Simmer the soup: Reduce heat to low, cover, and let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the soup to slightly thicken.
- Add chicken and cream: Stir in the shredded cooked chicken and heavy cream. Heat through for another 5 minutes without boiling to keep the cream from curdling.
- Final taste and serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of grated cheese.
Notes
- Using rotisserie chicken is a time-saving way to add flavor and protein.
- For a smoother texture, you can blend the soup before adding the chicken and cream.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, add additional flour in a slurry with water, stirring slowly during simmering.
- Heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half or coconut cream for a different richness level or dietary preference.
