This Smoky Chicken Tomato Bisque recipe combines the rich, savory flavors of chicken, tomatoes, and smoky seasonings, creating a warm, comforting soup perfect for chilly days. With its creamy texture, balanced with a touch of smokiness from chipotle peppers, this bisque is sure to satisfy your cravings and warm you up from the inside out.
Overview of Smoky Chicken Tomato Bisque
This Smoky Chicken Tomato Bisque is a delicious twist on the classic tomato soup, featuring shredded chicken for added protein and chipotle peppers for a smoky, spicy kick. The creamy base makes this bisque velvety and rich, while the smoky undertones bring depth to the traditional tomato flavor. Perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner, this bisque can be enjoyed with grilled cheese, crusty bread, or even a dollop of sour cream.
Ingredients for Smoky Chicken Tomato Bisque
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
For the Garnish (Optional):
- Sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- Crumbled tortilla chips
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh cilantro
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for about 5 minutes, until softened.
- Add the garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Broth
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth, then bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add the chipotle peppers, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and oregano. Let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 3: Blend the Soup
- Use an immersion blender directly in the pot to blend the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches.
- Once the soup is smooth, return it to the heat.
Step 4: Add Chicken and Cream
- Stir in the shredded chicken and heavy cream. Continue to simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to heat the chicken and allow the flavors to combine.
- Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 5: Serve
- Ladle the bisque into bowls and garnish with your choice of sour cream, shredded cheddar, crumbled tortilla chips, or fresh cilantro.
- Serve hot with a side of crusty bread or grilled cheese.
Tips for the Best Smoky Chicken Tomato Bisque
- If you like a smoother texture, you can blend the soup a second time for an even creamier consistency.
- For extra smokiness, add more chipotle peppers, or use smoked chicken in place of regular chicken.
- This bisque can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for later use. Just be sure to allow it to cool completely before storing.
Conclusion: A Cozy, Flavorful Soup
This Smoky Chicken Tomato Bisque is a perfect blend of classic tomato soup and smoky, spicy flavor. The addition of chicken makes it more filling, while the smoky chipotle peppers bring a delicious depth that elevates the dish. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cold day or serving it as a comforting meal for your family, this bisque is sure to be a hit. Pair it with a side of grilled cheese for the ultimate comfort food experience!
