Chicken Tortellini Soup

Okay, hear me out. There’s nothing better than a warm bowl of soup on a chilly day. And when it’s Chicken Tortellini Soup? Oh wow, it hits different.

I made this the other night, and my whole kitchen smelled like cozy hugs. It’s creamy, a little cheesy, and packed with soft, pillowy tortellini. My kids even asked for seconds—no joke!

This soup is kinda magic. It’s fast, filling, and makes you feel all warm inside. You’ll wanna make it again and again.

Wanna try it too? Let me show you how I make it, step by step. It’s super easy, promise!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comfort in Every Spoonful: The cheese tortellini and shredded chicken make this soup extra filling and cozy.
• Simple Ingredients: No complicated steps or specialty items—just pantry staples and fresh produce.
• Quick Weeknight Dinner: On the table in less than an hour, even faster with pre-cooked chicken.
• One Pot Meal: Easy cleanup and all-in-one meal satisfaction.
• Family Favorite: Loved by kids and adults alike, with flavors that please every palate.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: About 50 minutes

Servings: This recipe yields about 6 bowls of soup.

Difficulty: Beginner-friendly, with simple chopping and one-pot cooking.

Required Kitchen Tools

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle for serving

Ingredients for Chicken Tortellini Soup

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this hearty, flavorful soup (exact measurements are in the recipe card below):

• Olive Oil: Adds depth and helps sauté the vegetables.
• Yellow Onion: For a sweet, savory base flavor.
• Carrots: Add sweetness and a bit of bite.
• Celery Stalks: Traditional for soup; adds texture and flavor.
• Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic boosts flavor.
• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth if possible for better control of seasoning.
• Cooked Shredded Chicken: Rotisserie chicken or leftover baked chicken works well.
• Cheese Tortellini: Adds richness and heartiness.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasoning.
• Fresh Parsley: For a fresh, herbal finish.

Variations for Chicken Tortellini Soup

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: Saves time and adds a deep, roasted flavor.
• Add Greens: Stir in a few handfuls of spinach or kale at the end for a nutrient boost.
• Creamy Version: Add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end for a creamy broth.
• Different Tortellini: Try spinach, mushroom, or meat-filled tortellini for a twist.
• Herb Swap: Use thyme or Italian seasoning in place of parsley for a different herbal note.
• Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth and omit the chicken—add extra veggies or white beans for protein.

How to Make Chicken Tortellini Soup – Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics

In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.

2. Add Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more, just until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic brown.

3. Pour in the Broth

Add the chicken broth to the pot and stir well. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.

4. Simmer and Add Chicken

Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low. Add in the cooked shredded chicken. Simmer the soup for about 15–20 minutes to let the flavors come together.

5. Add the Tortellini

Stir in the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions—usually about 5–7 minutes—until they float to the top and are tender.

6. Season and Finish

Taste the soup and season with salt and black pepper as needed. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley just before serving for a pop of color and brightness.

How to Serve Chicken Tortellini Soup

This soup is satisfying on its own, but here are a few ways to make it a full meal:

• With Bread: Serve with a warm baguette, garlic bread, or crusty sourdough for dipping.
• Alongside a Salad: A simple green salad or Caesar pairs well and adds freshness.
• Top with Parmesan: Grated Parmesan adds a salty finish—serve it on the side for sprinkling.
• Add a Squeeze of Lemon: Brightens the broth and balances the richness of the tortellini.

Storing Chicken Tortellini Soup

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The tortellini may absorb some broth over time—add a splash of extra broth or water when reheating.
• Freezer: For best texture, freeze the soup without the tortellini. Add fresh tortellini after thawing and reheating. Soup base freezes well for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling to keep tortellini from becoming too soft.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Use Prepped Chicken: Rotisserie or leftover chicken makes this even faster to pull together.
• Cut Vegetables Evenly: Helps them cook at the same rate and gives a balanced texture.
• Watch the Tortellini: Overcooking can cause them to fall apart. Add them just before serving.
• Season at the End: Broths and tortellini vary in saltiness. Always taste and adjust before serving.
• Double the Batch: This soup reheats beautifully—make extra for easy meals later in the week.

Nutrition

Here’s a general idea of the nutrition per serving (1 bowl of soup, assuming 6 servings):

Nutrient	Amount (Approx.)
Calories	320
Protein	22g
Carbohydrates	26g
Fat	14g
Saturated Fat	4g
Fiber	3g
Sugar	4g
Sodium	780mg

Note: Exact values depend on specific ingredients and brands used.

Chicken Tortellini Soup FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes. For best results, make the broth and add the tortellini just before serving or reheating.

What kind of tortellini works best?
Fresh or refrigerated cheese tortellini holds up well and cooks quickly.

Can I use frozen vegetables?
Absolutely. Just add them in with the broth and adjust cooking time as needed.

What if I don’t have cooked chicken?
You can simmer raw chicken breasts in the broth for about 20 minutes, then shred and return to the soup.

Conclusion

This Chicken Tortellini Soup is the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug. It’s easy enough for weeknights, but comforting enough to make any day feel special. Whether you’re meal prepping or feeding a crowd, it’s a cozy favorite worth returning to.