Name: Chicken Tortellini Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 8 cups chicken broth; 2 leaves bay leaves; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 9 ounces cheese tortellini, fresh or frozen; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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Chicken Tortellini Soup is a cozy and comforting meal that’s perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you’re in need of a warm hug in a bowl. This delightful dish is filled with tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and a variety of colorful vegetables, all simmered to perfection. Not only is this recipe a fantastic way to use up leftover chicken, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare—making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners when time is of the essence.

Why you’ll love this dish

When it comes to meal prep, this Chicken Tortellini Soup checks all the boxes. It’s quick to make, budget-friendly, and irresistibly tasty. With its wholesome ingredients and hearty flavors, it’s sure to satisfy the whole family—even picky eaters! Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a gathering with friends, or just a quiet night in, this soup brings comfort and warmth at any occasion.

“This soup is a game-changer! My kids love the cheesy tortellini, and I appreciate how quickly it comes together after a long day—definitely a new family favorite!” — Happy Cook

The cooking process explained

Cooking this Chicken Tortellini Soup is straightforward and so rewarding. You’ll start by sautéing fresh veggies to build a flavorful base, then add the chicken and broth. Once it’s all simmered together, the tortellini makes a grand entrance, turning this dish into a hearty meal. In just about 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious soup that’s ready to be devoured!

What you’ll need

Gather these items to get started on your Chicken Tortellini Soup:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
8 cups chicken broth
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 package (about 9 ounces) cheese tortellini, fresh or frozen
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Substitutions: You can easily swap in turkey or shrimp instead of chicken for a different protein. And if you’re vegetarian, just use vegetable broth and substitute tortellini with a meat-free option.

Step-by-step instructions

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion, carrots, and celery for about 5 minutes, until they are tender.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth, then add the chicken, bay leaves, and thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
Stir in the tortellini and cook according to the package directions (about 5–7 minutes) until tender.
Remove the bay leaves, season with additional salt and pepper if desired, and stir in the fresh parsley.
Serve the soup hot, garnished with extra parsley if you like.

Best ways to enjoy it

To enjoy this Chicken Tortellini Soup to the fullest, serve it in deep bowls with a sprinkle of extra parsley on top. Pair it with freshly baked bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal. You can also make it more festive by adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a dash of red pepper flakes for some heat.

Storage and reheating tips

This Chicken Tortellini Soup makes excellent leftovers! Store any unused portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you’d like to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to three months. When reheating, be sure to do so gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if the soup thickens too much.

Helpful cooking tips

Here are a few pro chef tips to elevate your Chicken Tortellini Soup:

Use homemade chicken broth if you have it! It adds an incredible depth of flavor.
If you’re using frozen tortellini, make sure not to overcook it. Check the package instructions for the best timing.
Feel free to toss in other veggies you have on hand, like spinach or peas, to make it even more nutritious.

Creative twists

Want to switch things up? Here are some variations to customize your Chicken Tortellini Soup:

Italian twist: Add diced tomatoes and basil for a classic Italian flavor.
Spicy kick: Include a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.
Creamy version: Stir in a bit of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end for a rich and creamy soup.

Your questions answered

How long does it take to make Chicken Tortellini Soup?
It takes about 30 minutes to prepare from start to finish!
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, just ensure that it’s cooked thoroughly during the simmering process.
What can I substitute for chicken?
Turkey or seafood are perfect alternatives, or use plant-based proteins for a vegetarian version.
Is this soup freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! It freezes well; just make sure to leave out the tortellini if you plan to freeze it.
Can I add other vegetables?
Certainly! Feel free to add leafy greens, bell peppers, or zucchini.
How do I prevent the tortellini from getting mushy?
Cook the tortellini according to package instructions and add it at the end to avoid overcooking.
Can I use store-bought broth?
Yes, store-bought broth works perfectly. Aim for low-sodium options for better control over seasoning.
How can I spice this up?
Add herbs like oregano or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for an extra flavor boost!

Now that you know how to prepare this delectable Chicken Tortellini Soup, why not make it tonight? Don’t forget to check out more recipes like our Italian Spinach Salad or Creamy Tomato Basil Soup on our site for some fantastic meal pairings! Happy cooking!