Spicy Dill Pickle Tenderloin Soup: A Zesty, Cozy Comfort 🥄🌶️
Warm up your winter days with a bowl of Spicy Dill Pickle Tenderloin Soup, a fiery and flavorful twist on the classic Polish zupa ogórkowa (dill pickle soup). This hearty dish combines tender chunks of chicken tenderloin, creamy broth, tangy pickles, and a kick of spice to create a soup that’s as comforting as it is exciting. The unexpected addition of pickle brine adds a bright, briny depth, while fresh dill and a touch of heat elevate this dish into a modern classic. Perfect for chilly evenings, family dinners, or impressing guests with something uniquely delicious, this soup is sure to become a staple in your cold-weather recipe collection. Let’s dive into this bowl of bold, soul-warming goodness!
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Calories per Serving: Approximately 320 kcal
Servings: 4–6
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this vibrant Spicy Dill Pickle Tenderloin Soup:
- 1 lb (450g) chicken tenderloin – Cubed into bite-sized pieces for tender, protein-packed bites. Substitute with chicken breast if needed.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – For browning the chicken and sautéing the aromatics. Extra-virgin olive oil adds a subtle richness.
- 1 medium onion – Finely chopped to build a savory base for the soup. Yellow or white onions work best.
- 2 cloves garlic – Minced for a fragrant, flavorful kick. Fresh garlic is ideal, but ½ tsp garlic powder can work in a pinch.
- 4 cups (1L) vegetable broth – Provides a light, versatile foundation. Low-sodium broth allows better control over seasoning.
- 1 cup (150g) pickled gherkins – Diced into small pieces for tangy bursts of flavor. Use dill or kosher pickles for authenticity.
- ½ cup (120ml) pickle brine – The secret ingredient that adds a signature zesty tang. Adjust based on your taste for brininess.
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes – Adds a customizable spicy kick. Reduce or increase to suit your heat tolerance.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper – Freshly ground for a bold, peppery warmth that complements the spice.
- 2 medium potatoes – Peeled and diced into small cubes for hearty texture. Yukon Gold or russet potatoes are great choices.
- 1 medium carrot – Grated for subtle sweetness and a pop of color.
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream – Creates a luscious, creamy finish. Substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option.
- 1 teaspoon fresh dill – Finely chopped for a bright, herbaceous note. Fresh is best, but ½ tsp dried dill can work if necessary.
- Salt to taste – Add sparingly, as the pickle brine and broth may already be salty.
Optional Add-Ons:
- A splash of lemon juice for extra brightness.
- Crumbled bacon or sour cream as a garnish for added richness.
- Crusty bread or croutons for serving.
Equipment Needed
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Grater (for the carrot)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle for serving
- Small bowl for reserving chicken (optional)
Instructions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to craft your Spicy Dill Pickle Tenderloin Soup:
- Brown the Chicken:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the cubed chicken tenderloin and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown on all sides. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this stage, as it will finish cooking later. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the chicken to a plate or bowl and set aside, leaving any flavorful drippings in the pot. - Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently, until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30–60 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter. - Build the Soup Base:
Pour in the 4 cups of vegetable broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot for extra flavor. Bring the broth to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Add the diced potatoes, grated carrot, diced gherkins, pickle brine, red pepper flakes, and black pepper. Stir to combine, ensuring the vegetables are submerged. - Simmer with Chicken:
a tenderloin back to the pot, along with any accumulated juices. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the soup simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the flavors have melded. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and check the potatoes for doneness. - Add Cream and Season:
Stir in the heavy cream and heat through for 2–3 minutes, keeping the heat low to prevent boiling, which can cause the cream to curdle. Taste the soup and add salt as needed, keeping in mind the saltiness of the pickle brine and broth. If you’d like a brighter flavor, add a splash of lemon juice at this stage. - Finish and Serve:
Just before serving, stir in the chopped fresh dill to preserve its vibrant flavor and color. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra dill, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, or a dollop of sour cream if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread, dinner rolls, or homemade croutons for dipping.
Tips for Success
- Control the Heat: Adjust the red pepper flakes to your spice preference. Start with ½ tsp for a milder flavor and add more after tasting.
- Pickle Choice: Use high-quality dill pickles or gherkins for the best flavor. Avoid sweet pickles, as they’ll alter the soup’s tangy profile.
- Thicker Soup: For a heartier texture, mash a few of the cooked potatoes against the side of the pot before adding the cream.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the soup up to the cream step, refrigerate for up to 2 days, then reheat gently and add the cream and dill before serving.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Freeze for up to 1 month, but note that the cream may separate slightly upon thawing—stir well to recombine.
Variations to Try
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and use extra vegetables like celery, parsnips, or mushrooms for a hearty meatless soup. Swap vegetable broth for mushroom broth for deeper flavor.
- Creamy Vegan Soup: Replace chicken with white beans or chickpeas, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream, and opt for vegan pickles and broth.
- Smoky Twist: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or a handful of crumbled bacon for a smoky depth that pairs well with the pickles.
- Herbed Variation: Mix in other fresh herbs like parsley or chives alongside the dill for a more complex flavor.
- Low-Carb Option: Swap potatoes for cauliflower florets or turnips to reduce carbs while keeping the soup hearty.
Serving Suggestions
This Spicy Dill Pickle Tenderloin Soup is a meal in itself, but these ideas can enhance the experience:
- Serve with a side of rye bread, sourdough, or garlic toast for soaking up the creamy broth.
- Pair with a crisp green salad with a vinaigrette to balance the soup’s richness.
- Offer a cold beer, sparkling water with lemon, or a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc to complement the tangy flavors.
- Present in rustic ceramic bowls with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a side of homemade pickles for a cozy, Eastern European-inspired meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 6 Servings)
- Calories: ~320 kcal
- Protein: 15g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Sugar: 4g
- Fiber: 2g
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Why You’ll Love Spicy Dill Pickle Tenderloin Soup
This soup is a celebration of bold, unexpected flavors that come together in perfect harmony. The tangy pickle brine and gherkins add a refreshing zing, while the creamy broth and tender chicken provide comfort and warmth. The subtle heat from red pepper flakes makes every spoonful exciting, and the fresh dill ties it all together with a burst of herbaceous goodness. It’s a dish that feels both familiar and adventurous, making it ideal for anyone who loves to explore new culinary horizons.
Its versatility makes it perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday gatherings, or potlucks, and its make-ahead nature ensures stress-free entertaining. Whether you’re a pickle enthusiast or simply craving something cozy with a twist, this Spicy Dill Pickle Tenderloin Soup will leave you warmed, satisfied, and eager for seconds.
