Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe

Easy Homemade Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe for Cozy Comfort

Warm, comforting chicken tortellini soup beckons with its hearty embrace on chilly evenings.

Aromatic herbs dance through a broth brimming with tender pasta and succulent meat.

Memories of grandmother’s kitchen flood back with each spoonful of this classic comfort dish.

Delicate tortellini nestle among vibrant vegetables, creating a symphony of flavors and textures.

Skilled home cooks can easily craft this nourishing meal in under an hour.

Fresh ingredients transform simple components into a memorable dining experience.

You’ll want to savor every delicious bite of this soul-warming culinary creation.

FAQs

  • Can I use frozen tortellini instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen tortellini works perfectly in this soup. Just follow the package instructions for cooking time and ensure it’s fully heated through.

  • What type of chicken is best for this soup?

Rotisserie chicken, shredded leftover chicken, or poached chicken breast all work wonderfully. The key is using cooked, tender chicken that’s easy to shred.

  • Is this soup good for meal prep?

Absolutely! You can make this soup in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add fresh tortellini when reheating to prevent them from becoming mushy.

  • Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and use plant-based tortellini. Swap chicken with white beans or tofu for protein and follow the same cooking method.

What Makes Chicken Tortellini Soup Special

  • Dive into a heartwarming soup that wraps you in cozy, soul-soothing goodness with minimal cooking skills required.
  • Swap ingredients or add your favorite veggies to make this recipe uniquely yours, perfect for picky eaters and creative cooks.
  • Prepare a delicious, nutritious dinner in under 30 minutes that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds and feeling satisfied.
  • Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor make this soup a go-to option for busy weeknights, busy parents, and anyone craving a hassle-free meal.

Chicken Tortellini Soup Ingredient List

Main Ingredients:
  • Chicken: Tender protein that adds heartiness to the soup.
  • Cheese Tortellini: Pasta pockets filled with creamy cheese for extra richness.
  • Chicken Broth: Flavorful liquid base that creates the soup's foundation.
Vegetables:
  • Onion, Carrots, Celery: Classic soup aromatics that build a deep flavor profile.
  • Garlic: Adds a warm, aromatic note to the soup.
Seasonings and Garnishes:
  • Dried Thyme: Herb that provides earthy and slightly minty undertones.
  • Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings for balanced flavor.
  • Fresh Parsley: Bright, fresh herb for garnish.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Optional garnish that adds salty, nutty finish.
Cooking Liquids and Fats:
  • Olive Oil: Used for sautéing vegetables and adding subtle flavor.

How to Make Chicken Tortellini Soup

Step 1: Warm Up the Cooking Vessel

Grab a large pot or Dutch oven and drizzle olive oil, heating it over medium flame.

Toss in your chopped veggie lineup:
  • Onions
  • Carrots
  • Celery

Let these dance and soften for 5-7 minutes until they become tender and slightly translucent.

Step 2: Awaken the Garlic

Sprinkle minced garlic into the pot, stirring quickly for 1-2 minutes.

The kitchen will fill with an amazing aroma that signals deliciousness is coming.

Step 3: Build the Soup Foundation

Pour chicken broth into the pot and slide in pre-cooked chicken pieces.

Bring the liquid to a gentle simmer, allowing flavors to mingle and develop.

Step 4: Welcome the Tortellini

Drop cheese tortellini into the bubbling soup.

Let them cook following package guidelines, typically 7-9 minutes, until they’re perfectly plump and tender.

Step 5: Season with Love

Shake in dried thyme, then season with salt and pepper.

Taste and adjust seasoning until the soup sings with flavor.

Step 6: Dress and Impress

Ladle the steaming soup into bowls.

Crown your creation with:
  • Chopped fresh parsley
  • Grated Parmesan cheese

Step 7: Dive In

Serve piping hot and savor every comforting spoonful of this heartwarming chicken tortellini soup!

Handy Tips for Chicken Tortellini Soup

  • Choose whole wheat, gluten-free, or spinach tortellini to accommodate different dietary preferences without compromising taste.
  • Stir in extra chopped spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking to add hidden nutrients and vibrant color to the soup.
  • Add more broth if you prefer a thinner soup or simmer uncovered to reduce liquid and create a heartier texture.
  • Cook chicken and chop vegetables in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator to speed up soup preparation when you're short on time.
  • Roast vegetables before adding them to the pot to intensify their natural sweetness and create a more complex flavor profile.

Storing and Warming Chicken Tortellini Soup

  • Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent bacterial growth and maintain flavor.
  • Transfer soup to freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion. Freeze for 2-3 months. Avoid adding fresh herbs or cheese before freezing to prevent texture changes.
  • Warm soup in a pot over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth to restore original consistency if needed. Heat until steaming and reaching 165°F.
  • Pour soup into microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval. Check temperature and ensure even heating to prevent cold spots.

Serving Pairings for Chicken Tortellini Soup

  • Enhance Comfort with Perfect Pairings
  • Crusty Garlic Bread Delight: Slice a fresh baguette, brush with garlic butter, and toast until golden brown. The crispy texture complements the soup's creamy tortellini and provides a delightful crunch.
  • Crisp Chardonnay Companion: Select a chilled, light-bodied Chardonnay with subtle oak notes. Its refreshing acidity cuts through the soup's richness and balances the hearty chicken and cheese flavors.
  • Fresh Herb Salad Boost: Toss mixed greens with a light lemon vinaigrette, fresh basil, and sliced cucumber. The salad's bright, zesty elements create a perfect contrast to the warm, comforting soup.
  • Rustic Red Wine Option: Choose a light-bodied Pinot Noir with soft tannins. Its subtle fruit notes and smooth finish harmonize beautifully with the soup's savory chicken and vegetable profile.

Creative Twists on Chicken Tortellini Soup

  • Vegetarian Swap: Replace chicken with firm tofu or plant-based chicken alternative, using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a complete meat-free version.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Substitute cheese tortellini with gluten-free tortellini or replace with gluten-free small pasta like quinoa shells or rice noodles.
  • Low-Carb Adaptation: Swap tortellini with zucchini noodles or cauliflower florets to reduce carbohydrate content while maintaining soup's hearty texture.
  • Spicy Herb Variation: Add red pepper flakes, swap dried thyme with fresh rosemary, and include diced jalapeños for an extra kick of heat and complex flavor profile.
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Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe

Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe


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4.5 from 17 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Hearty chicken tortellini soup delivers comfort in a bowl, perfect for chilly evenings with its rich, creamy broth and tender pasta. Packed with savory chicken, vegetables, and cheese-filled tortellini, this soul-warming dish promises to satisfy and nourish you completely.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Proteins:

  • 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
  • 1 9 ounces (255 grams) package cheese tortellini

Vegetables:

  • 1 onion (finely chopped)
  • 2 carrots (diced)
  • 2 celery stalks (diced)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)

Liquids and Seasonings:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley (chopped)
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium temperature, gently sautéing onions, carrots, and celery until vegetables become translucent and slightly softened, approximately 5-6 minutes.
  2. Introduce minced garlic to the vegetable mixture, stirring continuously for 1-2 minutes to release aromatic flavors without burning.
  3. Pour chicken broth into the pot, carefully add pre-cooked chicken pieces, and allow the liquid to reach a gentle simmer.
  4. Gradually incorporate cheese tortellini into the bubbling broth, cooking for 7-8 minutes until pasta becomes tender and slightly plump.
  5. Sprinkle dried thyme throughout the soup, seasoning with salt and pepper to enhance the overall flavor profile, tasting and adjusting seasoning as needed.
  6. Remove pot from heat and carefully transfer the steaming soup into serving bowls, ensuring an even distribution of tortellini and chicken in each portion.
  7. Elevate the presentation by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley and a delicate sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, creating a visually appealing and flavorful meal ready to be savored immediately.

Notes

  • Choose soft, pre-cooked chicken for quicker preparation and easier shredding.
  • Fresh tortellini works better than frozen, providing a more delicate texture and richer cheese flavor.
  • Swap regular tortellini with gluten-free or whole wheat versions to accommodate dietary preferences.
  • Boost nutrition by adding extra vegetables like spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added color and vitamins.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 8 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 15 g
  • Cholesterol: 50 mg
Olivia Bennett

Olivia Bennett

Recipe Developer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

  • Showcasing ingredients in plant-forward vegetarian dishes.
  • Creating adaptable weeklong menu templates centered on seasonal produce.

Education

Schoolcraft College

  • Program: Culinary Arts Associate Degree
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in culinary techniques, menu planning, and food safety.

With an Associate Degree in Culinary Arts from Schoolcraft College and a natural knack for teaching, Olivia Bennett’s all about making home cooking feel possible, even on your busiest day.
Her thing? Recipes that are budget-friendly, season-forward, and full of Southern warmth. Whether it’s a roasted veggie bowl or a five-ingredient skillet bake, Olivia makes sure it’s simple, satisfying, and something you’ll want to make again tomorrow.
When she’s not shooting step-by-step videos or testing spice blends, she’s out foraging, flipping through old cookbooks, or throwing laid-back dinner parties with a BYO-mason-jar theme.

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