Smoky Chicken Tomato Bisque Recipe: A Hearty, Comforting Soup

Enjoy a comforting smoky chicken tomato bisque recipe with rich flavors of smoked chicken, fire-roasted tomatoes, and cream. Easy to make and delicious!

Introduction

If you’re craving a warm and comforting soup that packs a punch of flavor, look no further than the smoky chicken tomato bisque recipe. This dish is a delicious spin on the classic tomato bisque, featuring the rich flavors of smoked chicken, fire-roasted tomatoes, and creamy goodness. Whether you’re serving it as a cozy dinner on a cold evening or preparing a special starter for a dinner party, this bisque is guaranteed to impress.

This recipe is not only flavorful but also versatile. You can adapt it to different dietary preferences and create variations based on what you have available in your kitchen. For those who love adding a smoky depth to their soups, smoked paprika is your best friend. And if you’re unsure about the benefits of fire-roasted tomatoes in soups, check out this insightful guide on why fire-roasted tomatoes are better to get started. Don’t forget to add a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad to round out the meal.

If you’re feeling adventurous and want to make your own smoked chicken, consider using a smoker at home. It’s easier than you think! For a step-by-step guide, head over to this guide to smoking chicken at home. The smoky aroma and tender texture of the chicken will elevate your bisque to gourmet levels.

Key Ingredients

This bisque is packed with ingredients that balance smoky, creamy, and tangy flavors. Below are the key components you’ll need to make the perfect smoky chicken tomato bisque recipe.

Main Ingredients:

• 2 cups of smoked chicken, shredded
• 4 large fire-roasted tomatoes (or 1 can of fire-roasted tomatoes)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups chicken broth
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

Substitutions:

• You can substitute fire-roasted tomatoes with regular tomatoes if necessary, but increase the amount of smoked paprika to keep the smoky flavor.
• Replace heavy cream with coconut cream if you need a dairy-free option.

Equipment Needed

Having the right tools is essential for creating the best bisque possible. Here’s a list of equipment you’ll need to prepare this recipe:

• Large Pot: A sturdy pot for cooking the bisque.
• Blender or Immersion Blender: To blend the soup into a creamy consistency.
• Wooden Spoon: For stirring the ingredients as they cook.
• Ladle: For serving the bisque into bowls.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For ensuring accurate ingredient measurements.

Preparation Time

This smoky chicken tomato bisque is simple to make and doesn’t require much time. Here’s how long it takes:

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

Follow these steps to create a flavorful and satisfying smoky chicken tomato bisque recipe:

Pre-Preparation:

1. Chop the Vegetables: Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
2. Shred the Chicken: If you’re using pre-cooked smoked chicken, shred it into bite-sized pieces to add texture to the bisque.

Cooking Process:

3. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
4. Add Tomatoes and Spices: Stir in the fire-roasted tomatoes, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Add Chicken Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 20-25 minutes, allowing the tomatoes and spices to fully infuse the broth.
6. Blend the Soup: Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup in batches to a standard blender) to blend the soup until smooth and creamy.
7. Add Chicken and Cream: Return the blended soup to the pot and stir in the shredded smoked chicken and heavy cream. Let the bisque simmer for an additional 10 minutes to thicken and allow the chicken to heat through.
8. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the bisque and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Add more salt, pepper, or cayenne pepper for an extra kick of heat.

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9. Serve the Bisque: Ladle the smoky chicken tomato bisque into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs, a drizzle of cream, or even a sprinkle of extra smoked paprika for added color and flavor.

Tips and Tricks

To help you perfect this smoky chicken tomato bisque, here are a few expert tips:

• For Extra Smokiness: Add more smoked paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke to enhance the smoky flavor.
• Control Consistency: If you prefer a thicker bisque, reduce the amount of chicken broth or let the soup simmer longer to evaporate excess liquid.
• Make it Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream or almond milk as a substitute for heavy cream. This keeps the soup creamy without the dairy.
• Texture Add-Ons: You can add cooked brown rice, quinoa, or roasted corn to the bisque for a heartier meal.

Nutritional Information

This smoky chicken tomato bisque is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 20g
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 3g

The bisque is rich in protein from the chicken and provides a comforting creaminess from the heavy cream, making it perfect for a filling lunch or dinner.

FAQ

Here are some common questions about smoky chicken tomato bisque:

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of smoked chicken?

Yes! If you don’t have access to smoked chicken, rotisserie chicken can be a great alternative. To maintain the smoky flavor, consider adding extra smoked paprika or a small amount of liquid smoke.

Can I make this bisque in advance?

Absolutely! This bisque can be made up to a day ahead. In fact, the flavors deepen as it sits, making it even tastier when reheated.

Can I freeze this bisque?

Yes, you can freeze the bisque in airtight containers for up to 3 months. When reheating, do so slowly on the stove to prevent the cream from separating.

What can I serve with smoky chicken tomato bisque?

Pair the bisque with crusty bread, grilled cheese, or a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal.

Storage Instructions

Here’s how to store any leftover bisque:

• Refrigeration: Store the bisque in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave.
• Freezing: The bisque can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat the bisque gently over medium heat on the stove, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling to prevent the cream from curdling.

Conclusion

The smoky chicken tomato bisque is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines the richness of smoked chicken and fire-roasted tomatoes with a creamy texture that will warm you from the inside out. It’s easy to prepare and can be adapted to fit different dietary preferences, making it a versatile addition to your meal rotation. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just a casual dinner, this bisque is sure to impress.

Serve it with crusty bread or a simple salad, and don’t hesitate to customize it with additional ingredients like roasted corn or rice for a heartier version. Once you’ve mastered this recipe, you’ll be coming back to it time and time again. Enjoy, and feel free to share your experience in the comments below!