Chicken Tortellini Soup

This Chicken Tortellini Soup is a delightful mix of flavors and textures, perfect for cozy dinners or family gatherings. Whether you make it on the stove top or in a Crock Pot, this soup brings together juicy chicken, vibrant vegetables, and tender tortellini. The combination of Italian seasonings elevates the taste, making it a comforting dish that’s both easy to prepare and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious soup cooking in no time.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The blend of herbs and spices ensures every spoonful is bursting with flavor.
• Versatile Enjoyment: Perfect for lunch or dinner, this soup can be customized with add-ons like spinach or cream.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love tortellini! This dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with protein and veggies, it’s a nutritious option for any meal.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Chicken Tortellini Soup, you’ll need a few essential tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Crock Pot (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Provides ample space for simmering all the ingredients together, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Chef’s knife: Ensures precision when chopping vegetables, making the prep work quick and efficient.
• Crock Pot (optional): Offers the convenience of slow cooking for those who prefer set-it-and-forget-it meals.

Ingredients

This Chicken Tortellini Soup is easy to make on the Stove Top or in the Crock Pot. It has the best combination of Italian seasonings, juicy chicken with vegetables, and easy add-ons like spinach or cream!

For the Soup Base

• 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/Pepper (to taste)
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning

For Cooking

• 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

Flavor Enhancers

• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce

For Serving

• 10 oz. refrigerated tortellini (about 2 cups)

How to Make Chicken Tortellini Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by heating the olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once melted:
1. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery.
2. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Add the bone-in chicken breast to the pot:
1. Season with salt, pepper, dried basil, parsley, oregano, mustard powder, ground sage, and Italian seasoning.
2. Pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and cover; let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes until chicken is cooked through.

Step 3: Shred Chicken & Add Tortellini

Once cooked:
1. Remove chicken from pot; shred it using two forks.
2. Return shredded chicken back into the pot along with Worcestershire sauce and hot sauce.
3. Stir in refrigerated tortellini and cook according to package instructions (usually about 3-5 minutes).

Step 4: Serve Hot

Taste your soup and adjust seasoning if needed:
1. Serve hot with your favorite bread on the side.
2. Optional: Add fresh spinach just before serving for extra color and nutrients.

Enjoy your delicious bowl of Chicken Tortellini Soup!

How to Serve Chicken Tortellini Soup

This Chicken Tortellini Soup is versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance your meal experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to consider.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your soup with freshly chopped parsley or basil for added flavor and a pop of color.

Add Cream for Richness

• Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut cream just before serving for a creamy texture that enhances the soup’s richness.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• Pair your soup with crusty Italian bread or a warm baguette for dipping, making every bite comforting.

Include Spinach or Kale

• Add a handful of fresh spinach or kale to the soup just before serving for an extra boost of nutrition and vibrant color.

Sprinkle Cheese on Top

• Finish your bowl with grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese to add a savory finish that complements the flavors of the soup.

How to Perfect Chicken Tortellini Soup

To ensure your Chicken Tortellini Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Bone-In Chicken: Cooking with bone-in chicken adds depth and flavor, resulting in a richer broth for your soup.

• Sauté Vegetables First: Sautéing the onions, carrots, and celery before adding them to the broth enhances their flavors and creates a more aromatic base.

• Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your soup before serving; adjust the salt, pepper, and herbs according to your preference for maximum flavor.

• Cook Tortellini Separately: For best results, cook tortellini separately in boiling water and add them just before serving. This prevents them from becoming mushy in the broth.

• Use Low-Sodium Broth: Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels, allowing you to season to taste without overpowering the dish.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Tortellini Soup

Pairing side dishes with Chicken Tortellini Soup can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious broth while adding flavor.

2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad offers crisp greens and a tangy dressing that complements the warmth of the soup.

3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.

4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add a healthy touch and bring additional flavors that harmonize with the soup.

5. Cheesy Breadsticks: Soft, cheesy breadsticks are great for dipping into the soup while satisfying any carb cravings.

6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad loaded with veggies provides a nutritious side that’s filling yet does not overshadow the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chicken Tortellini Soup can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure the best flavor and texture.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not adding enough salt or spices can lead to bland soup. Make sure to taste and adjust seasonings throughout cooking.
• Not using fresh ingredients: Using stale or old vegetables can affect the overall taste. Always opt for fresh produce for a vibrant flavor.
• Overcooking the tortellini: Leaving tortellini in the soup too long can make it mushy. Add it towards the end of cooking for the best texture.
• Neglecting broth quality: Using low-quality chicken broth can diminish flavor. Choose a good-quality broth or homemade stock for richer taste.
• Ignoring customization options: Sticking strictly to the recipe can limit creativity. Feel free to add spinach, cream, or other vegetables you love.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Chicken Tortellini Soup in airtight containers.
• It will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before placing it in the fridge.

Freezing Chicken Tortellini Soup

• Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months in the freezer.
• Label containers with dates for easy tracking.

Reheating Chicken Tortellini Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat soup in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring halfway through. Heat on high until hot, usually about 2-3 minutes.
• Stovetop: Warm soup over medium heat until simmering, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Chicken Tortellini Soup.

Can I use frozen tortellini instead of fresh?

Yes! You can use frozen tortellini. Just add it directly into the soup without thawing; it may need a few extra minutes to cook.

What vegetables can I add to Chicken Tortellini Soup?

Feel free to add spinach, peas, or zucchini. These additions will boost nutrition and flavor.

How can I make Chicken Tortellini Soup creamy?

You can add heavy cream or coconut milk during the last few minutes of cooking for a creamy texture.

Can I make this recipe in a Crock Pot?

Absolutely! Simply add all ingredients except tortellini and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Add tortellini during the last 30 minutes.

How do I store leftovers of Chicken Tortellini Soup?

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Tortellini Soup is not only delicious but also versatile! You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or creamy additions. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping. Give this comforting recipe a try and enjoy its delightful flavors!