Chicken Tortellini Soup

This Chicken Tortellini Soup is a delightful blend of hearty vegetables, tender shredded chicken, and cheesy tortellini, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly night or preparing a comforting meal for family and friends, this soup is sure to impress. Its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients make it a standout dish that warms the soul.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Chicken Tortellini Soup comes together in just 32 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Packed: With a mix of Italian seasoning and fresh veggies, this soup bursts with flavor in every spoonful.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can use fresh or frozen chicken and tortellini, allowing for flexibility based on what you have on hand.
• Nutritious: Loaded with vegetables and lean protein, this soup is both satisfying and healthy.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Perfect for make-ahead meals; simply store leftovers in the fridge or freezer for future enjoyment.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Chicken Tortellini Soup efficiently, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment not only makes cooking easier but also enhances the quality of your dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or soup pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or soup pot: Provides even heat distribution, ensuring your soup cooks perfectly without burning.
• Cutting board: A stable surface for chopping vegetables safely and efficiently.
• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts on vegetables, making prep work faster and easier.
• Ladle: Ideal for serving your delicious Chicken Tortellini Soup without spills.

Ingredients

This Chicken Tortellini Soup is loaded with vegetables, tender shredded chicken, and cheese tortellini! Easily made stove top or crockpot, with fresh or frozen chicken!

For the Soup Base

• 1 tablespoon canola oil
• 3 large carrots (peeled and chopped)
• 2 ribs celery (chopped)
• ½ medium onion (diced)
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 6 cups low sodium chicken broth

For the Protein and Pasta

• 2 uncooked boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 ½ cups fresh or frozen cheese tortellini (250 grams)

For the Finishing Touches

• 1 cup fresh chopped spinach

How to Make Chicken Tortellini Soup

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Heat oil in a large dutch oven or soup pot over medium-high heat until shimmering.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the chopped carrots, celery, and diced onion to the pot. Cook while stirring often until the onions are softened, about 4-5 minutes.

Step 3: Add Seasonings

Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, minced garlic, and black pepper. Cook for an additional minute to release their flavors.

Step 4: Simmer the Broth

Pour in the low sodium chicken broth along with the uncooked chicken breasts. Bring everything to a simmer over high heat. Once simmering, reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and let it cook until the chicken is cooked through (about 10-14 minutes depending on their size).

Step 5: Shred Chicken

Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts from the pot. Shred or chop them into bite-sized pieces. While doing this, stir in the cheese tortellini and chopped spinach into the soup.

Step 6: Combine & Serve

Return the shredded chicken back into the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Chicken Tortellini Soup!

How to Serve Chicken Tortellini Soup

Chicken Tortellini Soup is a warm and comforting dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. The creamy broth and tender tortellini pair perfectly with a range of sides, making it an ideal meal for any occasion.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for added freshness and color.
• Basil Leaves: Add whole basil leaves before serving for an aromatic touch.

With Bread

• Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.
• Garlic Bread: Pair with garlic bread for a flavorful twist that complements the soup.

With Cheese

• Grated Parmesan: Top each bowl with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Add shredded mozzarella for a gooey, cheesy experience.

As a Meal Prep Option

• Lunch Bowls: Portion out leftovers into containers for easy lunches throughout the week.
• Freezer Friendly: Freeze individual servings for a quick meal option later on.

How to Perfect Chicken Tortellini Soup

Creating the perfect Chicken Tortellini Soup is all about balance and flavor. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out amazing every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance the flavor and nutrition of your soup.
• Season Gradually: Taste as you cook and adjust seasoning to your preference for the best taste.
• Cook Tortellini Separately: If using frozen tortellini, consider cooking it separately to avoid overcooking in the broth.
• Add More Greens: Incorporate additional greens like kale or Swiss chard for extra nutrients and color.
• Adjust Thickness: For a thicker soup, let it simmer longer or add more tortellini as desired.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Tortellini Soup

Pairing side dishes with Chicken Tortellini Soup can elevate your meal. Here are some delightful options that complement its flavors perfectly.

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice, this crispy bread adds flavor and texture.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons make this salad a refreshing counterpart.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil provide a light and zesty side that brightens the meal.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted with olive oil make for a healthy addition that pairs well with soup.
5. Cheese Quesadillas: These cheesy delights add a fun twist and can be easily dipped into the soup.
6. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins are perfect for soaking up the delicious broth while adding sweetness to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Tortellini Soup, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish.

• Using the wrong broth – Always opt for low sodium chicken broth for better control over seasoning. This helps in achieving a balanced flavor.
• Overcooking the chicken – Remove the chicken as soon as it is cooked through. Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough.
• Skipping the vegetables – Don’t skip on veggies! They add essential nutrients and flavor to your soup. Ensure you include carrots, celery, and spinach.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments – Taste your soup before serving! Adjust salt and spices as necessary to enhance the overall flavor.
• Forgetting to shred the chicken properly – Shred or chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces for a more enjoyable eating experience. Larger pieces can be hard to manage in soup.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store Chicken Tortellini Soup in an airtight container.
• item It will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken Tortellini Soup

• item Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• item Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chicken Tortellini Soup

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 25 minutes.
• Microwave – Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop – Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Chicken Tortellini Soup that may help you while preparing this delicious dish.

Can I use frozen tortellini in my Chicken Tortellini Soup?

Yes, frozen tortellini works perfectly! Just add them directly to the soup without thawing.

How do I make Chicken Tortellini Soup creamier?

You can add a splash of heavy cream or milk towards the end of cooking for added creaminess.

Can I customize my Chicken Tortellini Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you have on hand or swap out chicken for another protein like turkey or sausage.

What should I serve with Chicken Tortellini Soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread, salad, or even garlic bread for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Tortellini Soup is not only hearty and comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or protein options. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a warm bowl of deliciousness!