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Hearty Tomato Basil Rice Soup with Chicken Sausage

This hearty tomato basil rice soup with chicken sausage is a flavorful, comforting dish that combines the richness of sun-dried tomatoes, the freshness of basil, and the heartiness of rice. The savory chicken sausage adds depth while Parmesan cheese brings balance, making it a satisfying meal perfect for weeknights or cozy dinners. Simple ingredients come together in under an hour for a rustic, Italian-inspired soup that is both wholesome and delicious.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 bowls
Course: Dinner, Main Course, Soup
Cuisine: American
Calories: 380

Ingredients
  

  • 3 links chicken sausage sliced
  • 1 cup fresh basil loosely packed, torn by hand
  • 1 jar (8 oz) sun-dried tomatoes in olive oil, chopped
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 2 cups basmati rice rinsed
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic salt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil plus 2 tablespoons from the sun-dried tomato jar
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated, for serving

Method
 

Main Instructions
  1. Cook the rice in a mix of water and chicken broth until tender, then set aside.
  2. In a large pot, heat olive oil and two tablespoons of oil from the sun-dried tomato jar.
  3. Add the diced onion, sliced sausage, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté until the onions soften and the sausage begins to brown.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth, then stir in fresh basil, garlic powder, and garlic salt. Let simmer gently for 10–15 minutes.
  5. Stir in the cooked rice and let it heat through in the broth.
  6. Serve hot, sprinkled with grated Parmesan cheese and extra fresh basil if desired.

Notes

  • Cook the rice separately to avoid it soaking up too much broth during cooking.
  • Store soup and rice separately if making ahead to maintain the best texture.
  • For added richness, stir some Parmesan into the soup while simmering.