Ingredients
Method
Preparation
- In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, warm the reserved oil from the sun-dried tomato jar over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for 3 to 4 minutes until soft and fragrant.
- Stir in the tomato paste and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the paste turns a deep brick red and the mixture smells rich.
- Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, chopped basil, salt, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 12 minutes.
- Add the uncooked pasta, turn the heat to medium-low, and cook for 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente.
- Lower the heat to low, then add the spinach, shredded chicken, cream cheese cubes, and Parmesan. Stir frequently for about 5 minutes, until the cream cheese melts into the broth and the chicken is heated through.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and finish with extra Parmesan, fresh basil, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like. Serve right away.
Nutrition
Notes
Heavy cream can be swapped with half-and-half for a lighter soup, but the texture will be less velvety.
To make ahead, prep the onions, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes a day in advance and refrigerate.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheating gently over low heat prevents the dairy from splitting.
This soup freezes well for up to 2 months, though the pasta softens after thawing; cook fresh pasta and add it when reheating if desired.
If the soup thickens too much overnight, thin it with a splash of chicken broth or water when reheating.
Use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time, or sub in 2 cups of cooked, shredded chicken breast.
Serving suggestion: Pair with crusty sourdough bread and a simple green salad for a full meal.
