Cozy Chicken Tortellini Soup: A Hearty Comfort Food Delight
There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s Chicken Tortellini Soup. This recipe is a favorite in our household because it perfectly combines tender chicken, flavorful tortellini, and a medley of vegetables, all simmered together to create a hearty meal. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you’re simply looking for something cozy to enjoy, this soup fits the bill beautifully. Plus, it’s versatile enough for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
What I love most about Chicken Tortellini Soup is how easy it is to make. You can whip it up on the stove top or let it simmer slowly in the Crock Pot while you go about your day. It’s a recipe that invites creativity with add-ons like fresh spinach or a splash of cream for extra richness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– Simple preparation: With straightforward steps, this soup comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy evenings.
– Versatile options: You can customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
– Healthy and hearty: Packed with nutrients from vegetables and lean chicken, this soup is as nourishing as it is delicious.
– Family-friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy the comforting flavors and fun tortellini shapes!
– Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch and store leftovers for quick lunches throughout the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients ahead of time makes cooking so much more enjoyable! Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delightful Chicken Tortellini Soup:
For the Soup
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– ½ teaspoon dried oregano
– ½ teaspoon mustard powder
– ¼ teaspoon ground sage
– ¼ teaspoon pepper
– 1 1/4 lb. bone-in chicken breast (see notes)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 yellow onion, diced
– ¾ cup diced carrots
– 2 ribs celery, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 6 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon hot sauce
– 10 oz. refrigerated tortellini (about 2 cups)
Variations
One of the best parts of cooking is experimenting! Here are some fun ways to make this Chicken Tortellini Soup your own:
– Swap the protein: Use shredded rotisserie chicken or even cooked turkey for a faster option.
– Add more greens: Toss in some fresh spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition.
– Make it creamy: Stir in some heavy cream or coconut milk right before serving for an extra luscious soup.
– Change up the veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to suit your taste!
How to Make Chicken Tortellini Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until they are softened and fragrant—this takes about five minutes. Sautéing these vegetables adds depth and sweetness to your soup.
Step 2: Add Spices and Chicken
Stir in the minced garlic along with dried basil, parsley, oregano, mustard powder, sage, pepper, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for about one minute until the spices are aromatic. Then add the bone-in chicken breasts. They will provide flavor as they cook in the broth.
Step 3: Pour in Broth
Pour in the chicken broth along with Worcestershire sauce and hot sauce. Bring everything to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce to a simmer and cover the pot. Let it cook for about twenty-five minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through.
Step 4: Shred Chicken
Carefully remove the chicken breasts from the pot once they are done cooking. Use two forks to shred them into bite-sized pieces before returning them back into the soup. This step guarantees that every spoonful is filled with tender chicken goodness.
Step 5: Cook Tortellini
Add your refrigerated tortellini into the broth and cook according to package instructions—usually around five minutes until they float to the surface. This quick step means you’ll have perfectly cooked pasta integrated right into your flavorful soup!
Step 6: Serve Up
Once everything is well combined and heated through, taste your soup one last time and adjust any seasonings if needed. Ladle into bowls and enjoy! This Chicken Tortellini Soup is best served warm with crusty bread on the side for dipping.
With each spoonful of this vibrant Chicken Tortellini Soup, you’ll find warmth and satisfaction that nourishes both body and soul! Enjoy this comforting dish any day of the week!
Pro Tips for Making Chicken Tortellini Soup
Making Chicken Tortellini Soup is a delightful experience, and with a few helpful tips, you can elevate your dish to new heights. Whether you’re cooking for your family or preparing a meal for friends, these small adjustments can make a big difference.
– Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs can enhance the flavors of your soup significantly. If possible, choose organic options for the best taste.
– Adjust the thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, consider adding a bit of cornstarch mixed with cold water towards the end of cooking. This will help create a heartier texture.
– Customize the protein: Feel free to substitute the chicken with other proteins like turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Just be mindful of cooking times to ensure everything is cooked properly.
– Spice it up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or additional hot sauce according to your taste preference. This can give your soup an extra kick!
– Experiment with add-ins: Try adding spinach, kale, or even diced tomatoes to enhance the nutritional value and flavor of your soup.
How to Serve Chicken Tortellini Soup
Serving Chicken Tortellini Soup is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary items. A warm bowl of this comforting soup can be made even more inviting with a few simple touches.
Garnishes
– Fresh parsley or basil: Chopped herbs not only add color but also brighten up the flavors.
– Grated Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of cheese gives an added creaminess and enhances the Italian essence of the dish.
Side Dishes
– Crusty bread: A slice of freshly baked bread is perfect for dipping into the rich broth.
– Garlic bread: This classic side pairs beautifully with any soup and adds that extra crunch.
– Simple green salad: A light salad can balance out the richness of your soup nicely.
– Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies make for a healthy and flavorful accompaniment.
Make Ahead and Storage
Preparing meals in advance can save time during busy weeks. Here’s how to store your Chicken Tortellini Soup properly so you can enjoy it later!
Storing Leftovers
– Cool completely before storing: Let the soup cool down before transferring it to an airtight container to prevent condensation.
– Use glass containers: They are great for reheating in the microwave and don’t retain any odors.
Freezing
– Portion out servings: Freeze in individual portions so you can easily thaw just what you need.
– Label containers: Write the date on each container so you know how long it’s been in the freezer (it should keep well for about 3 months).
Reheating
– Thaw overnight in the fridge: For best results, move frozen soup to the refrigerator a day before you plan to reheat it.
– Heat gently on the stove or microwave: If using the stove, heat over low-medium until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
FAQs
If you’re wondering about specific aspects of making Chicken Tortellini Soup, you’ve come to the right place! Here are some common questions that many home cooks have.
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, frozen tortellini works perfectly fine in this recipe! Just add them directly to the pot without thawing; they may need an extra minute or two to cook through.
How spicy is this soup?
The level of spiciness depends on how much hot sauce or red pepper flakes you choose to add. You can always start with less and adjust according to your taste buds!
Is this soup gluten-free?
If you choose gluten-free tortellini, then yes! Just ensure that all other ingredients used are gluten-free as well.
Final Thoughts
I hope this Chicken Tortellini Soup becomes a staple in your kitchen! It’s comforting, nourishing, and perfect for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different flavors and ingredients. Enjoy every spoonful and share it with those you love! Happy cooking!
Chicken Tortellini Soup
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until they are softened and fragrant—this takes about five minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic along with dried basil, parsley, oregano, mustard powder, sage, pepper, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for about one minute until the spices are aromatic. Then add the bone-in chicken breasts.
- Pour in the chicken broth along with Worcestershire sauce and hot sauce. Bring everything to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce to a simmer and cover the pot. Let it cook for about twenty-five minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through.
- Carefully remove the chicken breasts from the pot once they are done cooking. Use two forks to shred them into bite-sized pieces before returning them back into the soup.
- Add your refrigerated tortellini into the broth and cook according to package instructions—usually around five minutes until they float to the surface.
- Once everything is well combined and heated through, taste your soup one last time and adjust any seasonings if needed. Ladle into bowls and enjoy!
