Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe

If you have been searching for a soul-soothing meal that combines comforting flavors with a touch of elegance, this Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe is exactly what you need to try tonight. It’s a vibrant, hearty bowl that effortlessly brings together tender shredded chicken, delicate cheese-filled tortellini, and a cozy broth bursting with herbs and veggies. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking to impress guests with a home-cooked meal, this soup stands out as a perfect choice that feels special without being complicated. Let’s dive into the mouthwatering details!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe has a purpose, from building rich flavors to adding satisfying textures and bright colors. The simplicity of these essentials is what makes this recipe so approachable and delicious.

• Bone-in chicken breast (1 1/4 lb.): Adds deep flavor and juicy tenderness when shredded.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for enhancing and balancing all the flavors.
• Italian seasoning (2 teaspoons): A fragrant mix that brings classic herb notes to the broth.
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons): For searing chicken and creating a flavorful base.
• Butter (2 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps soften vegetables beautifully.
• Yellow onion (1 diced): Provides sweetness and depth when sautéed.
• Carrots (¾ cup diced): Contribute subtle sweetness and vibrant color.
• Celery (2 ribs diced): Adds crunch and fresh herbal undertones.
• Garlic (3 cloves minced): Packs a punch of aromatic intensity.
• Chicken broth (6 cups): The heart of the soup, giving it warmth and body.
• Worcestershire sauce (1 teaspoon): A surprising layer of umami depth.
• Hot sauce (1 teaspoon): Just a touch for a gentle kick that brightens the palate.
• Refrigerated tortellini (10 oz.): Soft cheese-filled pasta that soaks up the broth perfectly.

How to Make Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

This step is optional but highly recommended for adding more flavor to your soup. Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in your soup pot over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until you get a lovely golden brown color. This browning process creates fond — the little caramelized bits stuck to the pan — which will make your broth even more delicious. Remove the chicken and let it rest for 10 minutes before shredding with two forks. Don’t worry if your chicken isn’t fully cooked inside yet; it will finish cooking in the soup later.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

In the same pot, melt the butter and use a spatula to scrape up all those flavorful bits left behind from searing. Add your diced onions, carrots, and celery and cook for about 5 minutes until they soften and start to release their natural sweetness. Then stir in the minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and Italian seasoning. Cook everything together for another minute to release all those wonderful aromas.

Step 3: Add Broth and Chicken

Pour in the chicken broth and return the shredded chicken to the pot. Bring everything to a gentle bubble—avoid boiling as that can toughen the chicken—and let it simmer, partially covered, for about 15 minutes. This allows all the flavors to marry beautifully while keeping the chicken tender and juicy.

Step 4: Cook the Tortellini

Add the refrigerated tortellini straight into the simmering soup. Depending on the brand (Rana is a great option), cooking time will typically be about 3 minutes. Be sure to check your package instructions for the perfect timing so the pasta is tender but not mushy. Taste your soup and add up to ½ teaspoon of extra salt or adjust seasonings as you like. Now it’s ready to serve!

How to Serve Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a handful of chopped fresh basil or parsley elevates this soup with freshness and a subtle tang. For a decadent touch, drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil on top or add a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche for creamy richness.

Side Dishes

This Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe is generous on its own but pairs wonderfully with crusty garlic bread or a warm, buttery focaccia to soak up every last drop of broth. A crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette also cuts through the richness and adds a refreshing contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this soup in individual mini Dutch ovens or rustic bread bowls for a cozy, special-touch presentation that feels homemade and inviting. For gatherings, serve alongside small plates of antipasti such as olives, marinated artichokes, and slices of salami to create an Italian-inspired spread everyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any leftover Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen over time, so it tastes fantastic the next day.

Freezing

This soup freezes well but note that tortellini can sometimes change texture after thawing. If you plan on freezing, consider storing the soup and tortellini separately, then combine and heat gently when ready to eat.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cheese tortellini from sticking or breaking apart. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup thickens too much during reheating.

FAQs

Can I use cooked chicken instead of searing it?

Absolutely! Using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken saves time and still yields a tasty soup. Just add it in when you add the broth so it warms through and absorbs the flavors.

What can I substitute for refrigerated tortellini?

If you can’t find tortellini, cheese ravioli or even small pasta like mini shells or orecchiette work nicely as alternatives.

How spicy is this Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe?

The heat is mild and adjustable. If you prefer less spice, reduce or omit the hot sauce. For more heat, add extra or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, skip the chicken and use vegetable broth. Substitute tortellini with cheese-only and add extra vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for heartiness.

What’s the best way to shred chicken quickly?

Using two forks is classic, but you can also use a hand mixer on low speed or your clean hands once the chicken is cool enough. Just be gentle to keep the pieces tender.

Final Thoughts

You really can’t go wrong with this Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe. It’s the kind of comforting, flavorful dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day and impresses without a fuss. Give it a whirl and watch it become a fast favorite in your kitchen too.

Print