Chicken tortellini soup is a comforting, savory delight that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Whip up this creamy, hearty dish quickly with minimal fuss. It’s a family-friendly meal that’s bound to become a favorite!
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Why You’ll Love Chicken Tortellini Soup
This chicken tortellini soup is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. The tender cheese tortellini pairs beautifully with shredded chicken and vibrant vegetables. Each spoonful is a warm hug on a chilly day. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal that makes cleanup a breeze. Your family will love the rich flavors, and it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies!
What You’ll Need
Essential Ingredients
To create this delightful soup, gather 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1/2 medium onion (chopped), 3 sticks of celery (finely chopped), and 3 large carrots (peeled and chopped or sliced). You will also need 2 cloves of garlic (minced), 1/2 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and 8 cups of chicken broth. For protein, use 2 cups of shredded cooked or rotisserie chicken, along with 2 (9-ounce) packages of refrigerated cheese tortellini. Lastly, season with salt and pepper to taste and garnish with chopped parsley.
Optional Add-ins and Variations
For some fun variations, consider adding a splash of lemon juice for brightness, swapping in meat-stuffed tortellini, or tossing in fresh spinach for extra nutrients. You can personalize the soup by adding your favorite vegetables too!
Tools for This Recipe
You’ll need a large soup pot, a cutting board, a sharp knife, and a stirring spoon. If you’re using a slow cooker, have that handy as well for an easy cooking method.
How to Make Chicken Tortellini Soup
Step-by-Step Instructions
Start by heating the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion for 5-7 minutes until softened. Then, stir in the celery, carrots, garlic, and Italian seasoning, cooking for a few more minutes until fragrant. Next, pour in the chicken broth, bring it to a boil, then reduce to a rapid simmer for 10 minutes until the vegetables soften to your preference. After that, add the chicken and tortellini, cooking for a few more minutes until the tortellini is tender. Adjust the heat if necessary to prevent boiling over. Finally, season with salt and pepper, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve immediately for the best experience.
Slow Cooker Method
If you prefer the slow cooker, you can make this dish using raw chicken. Simply cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, adding the tortellini 30 minutes before serving. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
What to Serve with Chicken Tortellini Soup
This soup is hearty enough to stand alone, but you can pair it with a fresh garden salad, crusty bread, or even a light sandwich for a complete meal. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top elevates it even further.
Leftovers and Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the tortellini will absorb broth over time. For optimal texture, consider storing the tortellini separately and adding uncooked tortellini when reheating. The broth can be frozen, but cooked pasta does not freeze well. This way, you can enjoy the soup at a later date without compromising its deliciousness!
FAQs
What ingredients do I need to make chicken tortellini soup?
You will need olive oil, onion, celery, carrots, garlic, Italian seasoning, chicken broth, shredded chicken, refrigerated cheese tortellini, salt, pepper, and chopped parsley.
How long does it take to cook chicken tortellini soup?
The total prep and cook time is about 40 minutes.
Can I use leftover chicken for chicken tortellini soup?
Yes, shredded cooked or rotisserie chicken works perfectly in this recipe.
What are some variations to try in chicken tortellini soup?
You can add lemon juice, use meat-stuffed tortellini, or include fresh spinach or other vegetables.
How do I store and reheat chicken tortellini soup?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently, adding uncooked tortellini if desired for better texture.
Related Recipes to try
Conclusion
This chicken tortellini soup is a delightful addition to your mealtime rotation. It’s quick, nourishing, and absolutely delicious. For more inspiration, visit our Pinterest page at Pinterest. Your family will thank you for this cozy dish!
Delicious Chicken Tortellini Soup for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ medium onion, chopped
- 3 sticks celery, finely chopped
- 3 large carrots, peeled and chopped or sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded cooked or rotisserie chicken (or more, to taste)
- 2 (9 ounce) packages refrigerated cheese tortellini
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Chopped parsley, to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large soup pot and sauté the onion for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the celery, carrots, garlic, and Italian seasoning, cooking for a few more minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce to a rapid simmer for 10 minutes until vegetables soften to your preference.
- Add the chicken and tortellini, cooking for a few more minutes until the tortellini is tender. Adjust heat if necessary to prevent boiling over.
- Season with salt and pepper, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve immediately.