Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe

If you’re craving a meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, this Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. Packed with tender shredded chicken, cheesy tortellini, and a medley of savory vegetables and herbs, this soup delivers comfort and flavor in every spoonful. It’s a straightforward recipe that comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners. Once you try this Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe, it’s destined to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe plays a crucial role, whether it’s adding depth, freshness, or that irresistible texture. The combination is thoughtfully balanced to build layers of flavor with simple kitchen staples you probably already have on hand.

• Dried basil and dried parsley: These herbs add a subtle sweetness and classic Italian aroma that brighten the soup.
• Dried oregano and mustard powder: A hint of earthiness and gentle pungency to complement the other seasonings.
• Ground sage and pepper: Sage adds warmth and pepper provides a little kick without overwhelming.
• Bone-in chicken breast (1 1/4 lb): Using bone-in adds richness to the broth, giving the soup a homemade feel.
• Salt and black pepper: To taste seasoning that brings out all the flavors perfectly.
• Italian seasoning (2 tsp): A classic blend that ties all the herb flavors together.
• Olive oil (2 tbsp) and butter (2 tbsp): These fats create a luscious base for sautéing and enrich the soup’s mouthfeel.
• Yellow onion (1, diced): Gives a sweet and savory foundation that melts into the broth.
• Diced carrots (¾ cup): Add slight sweetness and vibrant color to the pot.
• Diced celery (2 ribs): Offers a fresh crunch and aromatic undertone.
• Minced garlic (3 cloves): Garlic elevates the overall flavor with its unmistakable warmth.
• Chicken broth (6 cups): The heart of the soup that brings all the ingredients together with a savory base.
• Worcestershire sauce (1 tsp): Adds a unique depth and umami boost.
• Hot sauce (1 tsp): Just a touch to brighten and add a subtle heat.
• Refrigerated tortellini (10 oz): Cheesy and tender, it makes the soup satisfyingly hearty.

How to Make Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Searing the chicken is optional, but it’s totally worth the extra effort for the enriched flavor it adds. Start by seasoning each side of the bone-in chicken breast with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a 4 ½-quart soup pot over medium-high heat, and sear the chicken for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until it has a lovely golden-brown crust. This step not only adds a beautiful color but also creates those tasty browned bits on the pot’s surface, called fond, which will deepen your broth’s richness. Remove the chicken and let it rest for about 10 minutes before shredding with two forks. If the inside isn’t fully cooked, don’t worry—it’ll finish cooking in the soup.

Step 2: Build the Soup Base

Next, combine all your dried seasonings—basil, parsley, oregano, mustard powder, sage, and pepper—and set them aside. In the same pot you used for the chicken, melt the butter. Use a silicone spatula to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot; this releases those deep, savory flavors. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, cooking them gently for about 5 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant. Stir in minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and the pre-mixed seasonings, letting those flavors meld for an additional minute.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

Pour in your chicken broth and add the shredded chicken back into the pot. Bring everything just to a gentle bubble—avoid boiling as this can make your chicken tough. Partially cover the pot and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the vegetables to become tender and the flavors to harmonize beautifully.

Step 4: Add the Tortellini

Finally, stir in your refrigerated tortellini and simmer until they’re cooked through, which typically takes only around 3 minutes with refrigerated varieties like Rana. Give the soup a taste and adjust any seasonings, adding salt if needed (up to ½ teaspoon). Then it’s ready to serve!

How to Serve Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe

Garnishes

Garnishing your bowl can elevate this cozy Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe from simple to spectacular. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese sprinkled on top brings a nutty richness, while a handful of chopped fresh basil or parsley adds a bright, herbal pop. For a touch of indulgence, a drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil finishes the soup beautifully.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads or garlic bread for dipping. A crunchy baguette sliced thick or warm focaccia can soak up every last drop of broth, making your meal feel complete and satisfying without adding complexity.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the soup in mini bread bowls for an eye-catching presentation that’s perfect for entertaining. You can also ladle the soup over cooked grains like farro or barley in bowls to introduce delightful texture and make it even heartier. Serving garnishes separately lets your guests customize their bowls exactly how they like.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the tortellini submerged in the soup broth to prevent them from drying out or sticking together. Before reheating, give it a gentle stir to reincorporate any settled ingredients.

Freezing

Freezing this soup is possible but requires a small adjustment: it’s best to freeze the soup and tortellini separately if you can. Tortellini can become mushy when frozen and thawed in soup. Freeze the broth and shredded chicken in portioned containers and keep the tortellini in a sealed bag. Thaw both in the refrigerator, then reheat and combine for optimal texture.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, warm the soup gently over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Add the tortellini last to avoid overcooking, allowing them just enough time to heat through. Finish with fresh garnishes for a vibrant bowl just like new.

FAQs

Can I use cooked chicken instead of searing raw chicken?

Absolutely! If you have leftover cooked chicken, you can add it directly to the broth in step 3. The flavor might be a little lighter without the searing step and the fond it creates, but it will still be a delicious and speedy option.

What kind of tortellini works best for this soup?

Refrigerated cheese tortellini such as the Rana brand is ideal because it cooks quickly and has a lovely fresh texture. You can also use frozen tortellini, but cooking times may vary—just watch them carefully so they don’t overcook.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth and use cheese tortellini without any meat fillings. You can also add hearty mushrooms or tofu for extra protein to keep the texture satisfying.

Is it okay to skip the hot sauce?

Definitely! The hot sauce adds just a subtle kick and brightness, but the soup is flavorful and delicious even without it. Adjust the spice level to your preference or omit it entirely for a milder experience.

How can I make this soup gluten-free?

To enjoy a gluten-free version of this Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe, look for gluten-free tortellini made from alternative flours like rice or corn. Just ensure your broth and seasonings are also gluten-free, and the rest of the recipe remains the same.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe is such a comforting, flavorful meal that feels handcrafted from scratch, even though it’s surprisingly simple and quick. Whether you’re feeding family or hosting friends, it’s a crowd-pleaser that warms both the heart and the belly. I truly hope you enjoy making and sharing it as much as I do—once you try it, it might just become your go-to soul food!

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