There is nothing quite as cozy and satisfying on a chilly day as a warm bowl brimming with comfort, flavor, and a touch of indulgence. This Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe delivers all that and more, marrying tender shredded chicken, pillowy cheese tortellini, and rich, velvety cream in a fragrant broth that soothes the soul. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a heartfelt hug in soup form—perfect for weeknight dinners or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort but maximum taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this soup lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients, each one playing an essential role to build a symphony of flavors, textures, and colors. From the aromatic garlic and onion base to the fresh veggies and creamy finish, these ingredients turn an everyday soup into something memorable.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: The perfect foundation for sautéing that adds a subtle fruity richness.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds natural sweetness and depth to the broth.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings warmth and a fragrant kick to the soup.
- 2 carrots, sliced: Provides a slightly sweet crunch and vibrant color.
- 2 celery stalks, sliced: Offers a fresh, earthy note that balances the soup.
- 6 cups chicken broth: Creates the flavorful liquid base that ties everything together.
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken: Adds hearty protein and texture.
- 1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini: Tender pockets of cheesy goodness that make each spoonful special.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Gives the soup its signature creamy, luscious texture.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors.
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning: A blend that infuses Italian-inspired herbs for extra aroma.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh, bright finish and visual appeal.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking them gently until the onion turns translucent and fragrant. This step builds a flavorful foundation that will make your soup burst with inviting aromas.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
Next, toss in the sliced carrots and celery. Let them cook for about 5 minutes until they are just beginning to soften. This slow cooking helps develop their sweetness and ensures they won’t be mushy in the final dish.
Step 3: Add the Broth and Bring to a Boil
Pour in the chicken broth and crank up the heat until the mixture reaches a rolling boil. This step is key to melding all the flavors together and preparing the soup for the addition of the hearty elements.
Step 4: Incorporate Chicken and Tortellini
Stir in the shredded cooked chicken for heartiness, followed by the cheese tortellini, which will cook right in the broth. Cooking the tortellini according to package instructions (usually 7-9 minutes) right in the soup gives it its signature tender, cheesy bite that’s so satisfying.
Step 5: Add Cream and Seasoning
Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and mix in the heavy cream alongside the dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This step transforms the soup into a rich and creamy masterpiece, with herbs elevating every spoonful.
Step 6: Simmer Until Perfect
Let the soup simmer for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors and let the cream warm through without boiling. This gentle finish is what really sets this Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe apart, giving it that silky texture and balanced flavor.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once everything is beautifully combined and heated through, your soup is ready to be ladled into bowls and garnished. A final touch of fresh parsley brightens the dish and adds a pop of color.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley is a classic, but you can also sprinkle Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for a bit more indulgence and flavor contrast. A crack of fresh black pepper adds a subtle spicy note that complements the creamy base beautifully.
Side Dishes
The richness of this soup pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. Crusty bread or garlic toast also make perfect companions, perfect for soaking up every last drop.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this soup in individual bread bowls or garnish with a handful of fresh basil or thyme for an herbal lift. If you’re serving guests, presenting it in colorful bowls and adding a small side of grated Romano cheese can make the experience even more inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors deepen with time, making leftovers just as delicious, if not better.
Freezing
You can freeze this soup, but keep in mind that the tortellini may become softer after thawing. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months, and consider slightly undercooking the tortellini when you first make the soup to help it hold up better.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the cream from separating. Adding a splash of broth or milk can help restore creamy texture if it thickens too much.
FAQs
Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken for this soup?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut, adding cooked, flavorful meat without extra prep. Just shred it and toss it in during the cooking step.
Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, simply substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk or cashew cream. The soup will still be creamy but with a slight flavor twist.
Can I use frozen tortellini instead of fresh?
Frozen tortellini works perfectly in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on package instructions, usually a minute or two longer than fresh.
How spicy is this soup? Can I add heat?
This Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe is mild by default, but you can easily add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while seasoning for a gentle kick.
Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Start by sautéing the aromatics on the stove, then combine all ingredients except cream in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Add cream and tortellini during the last 30 minutes to prevent overcooking.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe is truly a treasure worth keeping in your weeknight repertoire. It brings together familiar, comforting flavors with a creamy touch that makes every spoonful feel special. Whether you’re feeding family or impressing friends, it’s a dish that invites warmth and happiness to the table. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own cozy classic!
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Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This creamy chicken tortellini soup is a comforting and hearty meal perfect for any day of the week. Packed with tender shredded chicken, cheese-filled tortellini, and fresh vegetables in a rich, creamy broth, it’s easy to make in just 35 minutes. Garnished with fresh parsley, this delicious soup warms you from the inside out with every spoonful.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic and sauté until the onions become translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Cook vegetables: Add the sliced carrots and celery to the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are slightly softened but still retain some crunch.
- Add broth and bring to boil: Pour in the 6 cups of chicken broth and increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil, infusing the flavors together.
- Add chicken and tortellini: Stir in the shredded cooked chicken and the cheese tortellini. Cook according to the tortellini package instructions, usually about 7-9 minutes, until the pasta is tender.
- Finish with cream and seasoning: Lower the heat to a simmer and stir in the heavy cream, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Allow the soup to simmer for 5 more minutes to fully heat through and thicken slightly.
- Serve and garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot for a comforting meal.
Notes
- Use pre-cooked shredded chicken or leftover rotisserie chicken to save time.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk.
- You can add spinach or kale in step 5 for extra greens.
- If you prefer, use frozen tortellini but adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
