Chicken Tortellini Soup Hearty and Comforting Meal

November 20, 2025April 6, 2025 by Chef Miles

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– 1 medium onion, diced

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 2 medium carrots, diced

– 2 stalks celery, diced

Additional Ingredients

– 6 cups chicken broth

– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

– 1 package (9 ounces) fresh cheese tortellini

– 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– 1 teaspoon dried basil

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 2 cups baby spinach

– Fresh cilantro for garnish

Optional Garnishes and Toppings

– Crusty bread for serving

– Additional herbs or spices

This soup is rich and filling. The olive oil starts the flavor, adding depth as you sauté the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. The chicken broth brings warmth and richness, while the shredded chicken makes it hearty. The fresh cheese tortellini gives a delightful texture. Diced tomatoes with green chilies add a gentle kick.

For a pop of color, add baby spinach at the end. It wilts quickly and keeps its bright green hue. Garnish with fresh cilantro for an extra layer of flavor. Consider serving with crusty bread to scoop up the delicious soup. You can even sprinkle more herbs for extra flair.

Each ingredient plays a role in making this soup a comforting meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

– Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

– Add 1 medium diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes. The onion should turn soft and slightly golden.

– Next, add 2 minced garlic cloves, 2 diced carrots, and 2 diced celery stalks. Stir well and cook for 5 minutes. This helps all the veggies soften nicely.

Cooking Steps

– Carefully pour in 6 cups of chicken broth and increase the heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

– Once boiling, stir in 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken, 1 package of fresh cheese tortellini, and 1 can of diced tomatoes with green chilies. Add 1 teaspoon of dried oregano and 1 teaspoon of dried basil, then season with salt and pepper to taste.

Finishing Touches

– Lower the heat and let the soup simmer for 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally until the tortellini is fully cooked and tender.

– Gently fold in 2 cups of baby spinach, allowing it to wilt for 1-2 minutes. This keeps the spinach bright and fresh.

– Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more salt or pepper if you like.

– Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh cilantro on top for a lovely touch.

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Tips

To sauté vegetables well, use medium heat. Start with the onion and cook it for 3-4 minutes. This helps it turn soft and golden. Next, add garlic, carrots, and celery. Stir often for about 5 minutes. This way, all the veggies become tender and flavorful.

To avoid mushy tortellini, cook them just right. Add them to the soup when it simmers. Keep an eye on the time. They usually need just 5-7 minutes. This keeps them firm and tasty.

Flavor Enhancement Tips

To boost flavor, use spices and herbs. Dried oregano and basil work great in this soup. They add warmth and depth. You can also sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.

Balancing seasoning is key. Start with a little salt and pepper. Taste often and adjust as you go. This way, the flavors blend well, and each bite is perfect.

Presentation Tips

For a lovely presentation, serve the soup in deep, wide bowls. This makes it look inviting. Top each bowl with fresh cilantro and a sprinkle of black pepper. It not only adds color but also enhances the taste.

Choose bowls that are bright or colorful. This adds a fun touch to your meal. It’s all about making the dish look as good as it tastes!

Variations

Ingredient Variations

You can change up the soup by adding different vegetables. Try bell peppers for a sweet crunch or corn for a touch of sweetness. These veggies add color and flavor, making the soup even better. For protein, consider using turkey or tofu. Turkey gives a leaner option, while tofu is great for a plant-based meal. Each change keeps the soup fresh and exciting.

Broth Variations

You can also switch the broth. Using vegetable broth makes this soup vegetarian-friendly. It still packs a lot of flavor without the meat. Want a creamier soup? Add a splash of cream for a richer texture. This makes each spoonful feel cozy and comforting.

Tortellini Alternatives

When it comes to tortellini, you have choices. Try different pasta shapes like shells or bow ties if you can’t find tortellini. Both will still soak up the tasty broth. If you need a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free tortellini. You can even make your own! Homemade tortellini can be fun and lets you choose your fillings. Each variation offers a unique twist to this classic dish.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your chicken tortellini soup fresh, store it in a sealed container. Make sure it cools first before sealing. Place it in the fridge. It will stay good for 3 to 4 days. If you want to enjoy it later, freezing is a great option.

Freezing Recommendations

To freeze chicken tortellini soup, let it cool completely. Then, pour the soup into freezer-safe bags. Remove as much air as you can. This helps prevent freezer burn. The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight.

Reheating Instructions

For the best flavor, reheat your soup slowly. The stovetop is a great choice. Pour the soup into a pot and heat over low. Stir often until it is hot. If using a microwave, heat in short bursts. Stir in between to keep it even. Be careful not to overheat, as this can change the taste and texture.

FAQs

Common Questions

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Chicken Tortellini Soup ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge. It tastes even better the next day. When you reheat it, make sure to warm it on low heat. This helps keep the flavors intact.

What can I substitute for chicken?

If you want to replace chicken, try using cooked turkey or shredded rotisserie chicken. You can also use beans or tofu for a vegetarian option. These choices keep the soup hearty and delicious.

Dietary Considerations

Is Chicken Tortellini Soup gluten-free?

This soup is not gluten-free due to the tortellini. However, you can find gluten-free tortellini at many stores. Just swap the regular tortellini for the gluten-free version. This way, you can enjoy the soup without any gluten.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can make this soup dairy-free. Use dairy-free tortellini and skip any cheese. You can also add coconut milk for a creamy texture. This keeps the soup rich and tasty without dairy.

Cooking Time Inquiries

How long does it take to cook tortellini?

Fresh tortellini cooks quickly. It usually takes about 5-7 minutes in boiling soup. You’ll know it’s ready when it floats to the top and is tender.

What is the best way to know when the soup is done?

The soup is done when the tortellini is soft and the spinach is wilted. Make sure to taste it for seasoning before serving. Adjust with salt and pepper to make it just right.

This blog post covered all you need to know for a tasty chicken tortellini soup. We looked at the key ingredients and the steps to prepare it. Plus, I shared tips to enhance flavor and presentation. You can even try variations to make it your own. Lastly, I explained how to store and reheat leftovers.

You now have everything to make a soup that warms the heart. Enjoy creating and sharing this comforting dis