If you’re craving a warm, hearty meal that feels like a cozy hug in a bowl, this Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe is just what you need. Bursting with tender shredded chicken, pillowy cheese tortellini, fresh veggies, and a luscious creamy broth, this soup strikes the perfect balance between comforting and indulgent. It’s simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight but impressive enough to share with family and friends. Trust me, once you taste this delightful combination, it’s going to become your go-to for cool evenings or anytime you’re in need of a little culinary TLC.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a key role in building layers of flavor, texture, and gorgeous color. From the humble onion that creates a savory base to the fresh spinach for a pop of green, these simple staples transform into something truly special.
- Olive oil: Adds a fruity, rich flavor and helps sauté the vegetables to perfection.
- Unsalted butter: Brings a silky richness that deepens the soup’s flavor.
- Yellow onion, diced: Provides sweetness and a savory foundation when softened.
- Garlic, minced: Imparts a fragrant aroma and subtle bite to round out the base.
- Carrots, sliced: Add natural sweetness and a pleasant tender-crisp texture.
- Celery stalks, sliced: Contribute a gentle earthiness and crunch to build complexity.
- Chicken broth: The flavorful liquid that ties all ingredients together and defines the soup’s warmth.
- Cooked shredded chicken: The protein-packed star that makes this dish satisfying.
- Dried Italian seasoning: Blends classic herbs that elevate the soup’s savory profile.
- Black pepper: Adds a subtle kick that balances the creaminess.
- Refrigerated cheese tortellini: Soft, cheesy pillows that make every spoonful irresistibly fun.
- Heavy cream: Creates the soup’s signature luscious, velvety texture.
- Fresh spinach (optional): Introduces vibrant color and a mild, fresh taste.
- Salt: Enhances all the natural flavors and makes the soup sing.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish: Offers a burst of freshness and visual appeal.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Start by heating olive oil and butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Toss in diced onions, sliced carrots, and celery, then cook for about 5 to 6 minutes until those veggies soften and their natural sweetness emerges. Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for just another minute to awaken those amazing aromas that make your kitchen smell like heaven.
Step 2: Simmer the Broth with Chicken and Seasonings
Pour in the chicken broth, then add the shredded chicken, dried Italian seasoning, and a pinch of black pepper. Bring everything up to a gentle simmer and let it mingle for 5 minutes so all the flavors blend beautifully into your broth. This step infuses the soup with warmth and depth, setting the stage for the tortellini to shine.
Step 3: Cook the Tortellini
Next, add the refrigerated cheese tortellini straight into the simmering soup. Follow the package instructions—typically around 4 to 6 minutes—to cook them until tender but not mushy. This little pasta surprise makes the soup incredibly satisfying and adds a wonderful cheesy bite in every spoonful.
Step 4: Stir in the Cream and Spinach
Turn the heat down to low and gently stir in the heavy cream, transforming the broth into a silky, creamy dream. If you love a touch of green, add the fresh spinach now and let it wilt down for 2 to 3 minutes. Finish by tasting the soup and seasoning with salt if needed to bring out all the vibrant flavors.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can take your Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe from tasty to fabulous. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds brightness and a pop of color. For a little extra flair, consider freshly grated Parmesan or a crack of black pepper to make each bowl feel special.
Side Dishes
This soup is hearty but pairs wonderfully with crusty artisan bread or garlic knots for dunking. A crisp green side salad with a tangy vinaigrette also complements the richness perfectly. These sides add texture and balance, turning your meal into a feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the soup in rustic bread bowls to impress guests and add a fun twist. You can also drizzle a touch of olive oil or sprinkle red pepper flakes for extra depth. For a family-friendly option, serve it with cheese toasties on the side to soak up every last drop of that creamy goodness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent the pasta from absorbing too much liquid. The flavors only deepen after resting, making leftovers just as delightful.
Freezing
While freezer-safe, the tortellini can become a bit softer after freezing and thawing. If you plan to freeze the soup, consider cooking the tortellini fresh when reheating and freezing the broth and chicken mixture separately. This way, you get the best texture when enjoying your soup later.
Reheating
Gently warm your leftover soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens too much, simply add a splash of broth or water to loosen it back up. Reheating with care preserves that creamy texture and keeps every comforting bite delicious.
FAQs
Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?
Absolutely! Frozen tortellini works just as well—just be sure to increase the cooking time by a minute or two until they are tender. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a creamy plant-based milk to keep it dairy-free. The flavor will be slightly different but still rich and satisfying.
Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?
Definitely! Start by sautéing the veggies and garlic, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Add the broth, chicken, and seasonings and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours. Add tortellini and cream near the end to avoid overcooking.
What type of chicken works best in this recipe?
Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that offers plenty of flavor, but you can also use poached or baked chicken breast shredded by hand. Just make sure it’s cooked before adding it to the soup.
Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to throw in mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers based on your preference. Just adjust the sautéing time accordingly to ensure everything is tender and flavorful.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe is truly a bowl of comfort and happiness that’s perfect for any season. From the first warm spoonful to the last, it’s like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket of flavors. I can’t wait for you to try it—you’ll see why it quickly becomes a family favorite that everyone asks for again and again.
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Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This creamy chicken tortellini soup is a comforting and hearty meal perfect for any day of the week. Made with tender shredded chicken, cheese-filled tortellini, and fresh vegetables simmered in a rich chicken broth with a splash of heavy cream, it offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The addition of fresh spinach adds a nutritious touch while fresh parsley garnish adds brightness. Ready in just 35 minutes, this soup is a family-friendly dish that warms you from the inside out.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 4 cups chicken broth
Protein and Seasonings
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
Pasta and Dairy
- 1 (9-ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 cup heavy cream
Vegetables and Garnish
- 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until the vegetables are softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add Broth and Chicken: Pour in the chicken broth, then add the cooked shredded chicken, dried Italian seasoning, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Cook Tortellini: Add the cheese tortellini to the pot. Cook according to the package instructions, typically 4–6 minutes, until the tortellini are tender but not overcooked.
- Add Cream and Spinach: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream to create a creamy broth. If using, add the fresh spinach and cook for another 2–3 minutes until the spinach is wilted. Taste the soup and adjust the salt if necessary.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately for a comforting and creamy meal.
Notes
- You can use rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation and added flavor.
- For a lighter soup, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk.
- The soup tends to thicken as it sits; add extra chicken broth when reheating to reach desired consistency.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
