Introduction

Tomato soup is a beloved classic, known for its comforting and tangy flavor. Adding chicken to the mix transforms this traditional dish into a hearty and satisfying meal, perfect for any time of year. This recipe combines the richness of tomato soup with tender pieces of chicken, creating a deliciously balanced and nourishing dish.

Ingredients

  • For the Soup:
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    • 1 large onion, chopped
    • 3 cloves garlic, minced
    • 2 carrots, peeled and diced
    • 2 celery stalks, diced
    • 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
    • 4 cups chicken broth
    • 1 teaspoon dried basil
    • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
    • 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
    • Salt and pepper to taste
  • For the Chicken:
    • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (use rotisserie chicken or cooked chicken breasts)
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil (if cooking fresh chicken)
    • 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
    • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
    • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional Garnishes:
    • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
    • Shredded cheese (e.g., Parmesan or cheddar)
    • Croutons

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken:
    • If Using Cooked Chicken: Simply shred or dice the chicken and set aside.
    • If Cooking Fresh Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked. Let it rest for a few minutes before shredding or dicing.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables:
    • In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
    • Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes, or until translucent.
    • Stir in the minced garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
  3. Add Tomatoes and Broth:
    • Stir in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth.
    • Add the dried basil, dried oregano, and sugar (if using). Mix well.
  4. Simmer the Soup:
    • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
    • Simmer for about 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  5. Blend (Optional):
    • For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to blend the soup directly in the pot until smooth. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender.
  6. Add Chicken:
    • Stir in the cooked chicken and heat through for about 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Serve:
    • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil, parsley, shredded cheese, or croutons if desired.

Serving Suggestions

  • With Bread: Serve with a slice of crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for a classic and comforting meal.
  • With Salad: Pair with a simple green salad to balance the richness of the soup.

Tips for Success

  • Tomato Quality: Use high-quality crushed tomatoes for the best flavor. If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can use diced tomatoes instead of crushed.
  • Chicken Options: Rotisserie chicken adds a great depth of flavor, but you can also use leftover chicken or cook it fresh.
  • Texture Preference: Adjust the texture of the soup to your liking by blending it to a smooth consistency or leaving it chunky.

Conclusion

Tomato Soup with Chicken is a hearty twist on the classic tomato soup, combining the tangy richness of tomatoes with tender, flavorful chicken. This recipe is perfect for a comforting lunch or dinner and can be easily customized to suit your taste. With its delicious flavor and satisfying texture, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.