This easy chicken tortellini soup recipe is the perfect dish for any occasion. It’s not only quick to prepare but also packed with comforting flavors from juicy shredded chicken and cheesy tortellini in a rich broth. Ready in just 40 minutes, this soup is ideal for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. Its delightful combination of ingredients makes it a family favorite that warms your heart and soul.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This soup can be ready in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
- Comforting Flavors: The combination of cheese tortellini and tender chicken creates a delicious, comforting meal.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can customize the soup by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the seasoning.
- Healthy Option: With lean chicken and plenty of veggies, this soup is a nutritious choice for any meal.
- One-Pot Meal: Everything cooks in one pot, which means fewer dishes to clean up afterward!
Tools and Preparation
To make this easy chicken tortellini soup, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will help streamline your cooking process and ensure success.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large soup pot
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large soup pot: A spacious pot allows for easy stirring and prevents spills when cooking.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables, keeping your workspace organized.
- Sharp knife: Ensures precise cutting, making the prep work quick and efficient.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make your easy chicken tortellini soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 medium onion (chopped)
- 3 sticks celery (finely chopped)
- 3 large carrots (peeled & chopped or sliced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded cooked/rotisserie chicken (or more, to taste)
- 2 (9 ounce) packages refrigerated cheese tortellini
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
- Chopped parsley (to taste)
How to Make Easy Chicken Tortellini Soup
Step 1: Sauté Vegetables
- Add the olive oil and onion to a large soup pot over medium-high heat.
- Sauté for about 5–7 minutes until the onion lightly browns.
Step 2: Add More Veggies
- Stir in the celery, carrots, garlic, and Italian seasoning.
- Continue cooking for a few more minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
Step 3: Pour in Chicken Broth
- Add the chicken broth to the pot.
- Increase heat to high; bring it to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce heat to rapid simmer for about 10 minutes or until veggies are tender.
Step 4: Incorporate Chicken and Tortellini
- Add shredded chicken and tortellini to the pot.
- Cook on medium-high until the tortellini is tender—adjust heat if boiling too vigorously.
Step 5: Season and Serve
- Season with salt and pepper according to taste.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving immediately.
Now you have a delicious bowl of easy chicken tortellini soup ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Easy Chicken Tortellini Soup
This easy chicken tortellini soup is a delightful dish that warms the soul. It can be served in various ways to enhance the dining experience.
With Fresh Bread
- Crusty Baguette: A warm, crusty baguette pairs perfectly with this soup, allowing you to soak up every bit of the delicious broth.
- Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread adds a flavorful twist and makes for a satisfying side.
Topped with Cheese
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan sprinkled on top adds a nutty flavor that complements the soup’s richness.
- Mozzarella: Melting mozzarella cheese creates a gooey texture that enhances each spoonful of soup.
With Extra Greens
- Spinach: Adding fresh spinach before serving gives a pop of color and extra nutrition.
- Chopped Kale: For a hearty bite, stir in some chopped kale just before serving.
As a Main Course
- Salad on the Side: A light mixed green salad with vinaigrette can balance the richness of the soup.
- Fruit Plate: Serve with a refreshing fruit plate for a sweet contrast.
How to Perfect Easy Chicken Tortellini Soup
To make your easy chicken tortellini soup even better, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: For added convenience and flavor, use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go. Adjust salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning according to your preference.
- Cook Tortellini Separately: If you prefer firmer tortellini, cook it separately and add it to each bowl when serving.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to include other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for more nutrition and flavor.
- Make It Ahead: This soup can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat before serving!
- Garnish Creatively: Consider garnishing with lemon zest or fresh herbs for an aromatic touch.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Chicken Tortellini Soup
Pairing side dishes with your easy chicken tortellini soup can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and tanginess that complements the soup beautifully.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a refreshing side that balances the warmth of the soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring depth and nutritious value to your meal.
- Cheese Quesadillas: Quick and cheesy quesadillas make for an excellent dipping option alongside the soup.
- Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins offer a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of the soup.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides healthy greens without overpowering the main dish.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites add an elegant touch while being easy to prepare ahead of time.
- Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad can provide a nice textural contrast against the warm soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Easy Chicken Tortellini Soup, it’s easy to run into common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of.
- Skipping the sauté step: This step enhances flavors by caramelizing the onions and vegetables. Always sauté them before adding broth.
- Using bland broth: Opt for a quality chicken broth for a richer taste. Avoid low-sodium options unless you plan to add more seasoning.
- Overcooking tortellini: Follow the cooking time on the package closely. Overcooked tortellini can become mushy and lose its texture.
- Neglecting seasoning: Taste your soup before serving. Adjust with salt, pepper, or herbs to elevate the flavor.
- Not letting it rest: Allow the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking. This helps flavors meld together beautifully.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep it refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Freezing Easy Chicken Tortellini Soup
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Easy Chicken Tortellini Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.
- Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Easy Chicken Tortellini Soup?
Easy Chicken Tortellini Soup is a comforting dish featuring cheese tortellini, shredded chicken, and vegetables in a flavorful broth.
Can I use frozen tortellini in this recipe?
Yes! Frozen tortellini can be used directly without thawing. Just adjust cooking times slightly as needed.
How can I customize Easy Chicken Tortellini Soup?
You can add more vegetables like spinach or kale, or switch up the protein using turkey or tofu for a different twist.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Easy Chicken Tortellini Soup stores well and can be made ahead of time for quick meals throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Chicken Tortellini Soup is not only quick and delicious but also versatile enough for customization. Feel free to add your favorite veggies or proteins. It’s perfect for cozy nights or family gatherings—give it a try!
Easy Chicken Tortellini Soup
This Easy Chicken Tortellini Soup is a delicious and comforting dish that comes together in just 40 minutes. With tender shredded chicken, cheesy tortellini, and a medley of vegetables simmered in a rich chicken broth, it’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 medium onion (chopped)
- 3 sticks celery (finely chopped)
- 3 large carrots (peeled & chopped or sliced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded cooked/rotisserie chicken (or more, to taste)
- 2 (9 ounce) packages refrigerated cheese tortellini
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
- Chopped parsley (to taste)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Sauté chopped onion for 5–7 minutes until lightly browned.
- Add finely chopped celery, carrots, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning; cook for an additional few minutes until softened.
- Pour in chicken broth, increase heat to high, and bring to a boil. Reduce to a rapid simmer for about 10 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Stir in shredded chicken and tortellini; cook on medium-high until tortellini is tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve immediately.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
