This Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup is the ultimate comfort dish, perfect for chilly nights or casual gatherings. Packed with tender chicken, delightful cheese tortellini, and a medley of fresh vegetables, this soup is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something special for guests, this recipe fits the bill. With a creamy texture and rich flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This soup comes together in just 35 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful & Satisfying: The blend of garlic, Italian seasoning, and creamy broth creates a comforting taste that warms you from the inside out.
- Nutritious Ingredients: With plenty of vegetables like spinach and carrots, this soup is both hearty and healthy.
- Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or serve it alongside crusty bread for dipping at your next gathering.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike will love this creamy, cheesy delight!
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Chopping board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: This allows you to cook all ingredients together without overcrowding.
- Chopping board: A sturdy surface keeps your workspace organized while you prep your vegetables.
- Sharp knife: A good knife saves time and ensures clean cuts for even cooking.
Ingredients
This chicken and cheese tortellini soup is something that just always sounds good. Luckily, it’s the easiest thing to make and is full of vegetables and cheese, so it’s both healthy and cozy!
Vegetables
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 2 medium carrots, cut into ¼ inch-thick slices
- 2 celery ribs, cut into ¼ inch-thick slices
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
Broth Base
- ¼ cup flour
- 6 cups chicken stock
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
Creamy Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan, plus more for serving
Protein & Pasta
- 2 cups shredded chicken breast
- (10 ounce) bag cheese tortellini
Greens & Spice
- 3 cups packed baby spinach
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
How to Make Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
- Melt the butter in a large pot over medium-high heat.
- Add the onion, carrots, and celery; cook while stirring until the onion becomes translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in the minced garlic; cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Sprinkle with flour; stir until fully incorporated.
Step 2: Create the Soup Base
- Pour in the chicken stock along with sea salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, paprika, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese.
- Cook while stirring until everything is well mixed.
- Bring to a boil; then reduce heat to medium-low. Let simmer until slightly thickened (about 10 minutes).
Step 3: Add Chicken & Tortellini
- Stir in shredded chicken, tortellini, and baby spinach into the soup.
- Cook until the spinach wilts and tortellini becomes tender (about 3-5 minutes).
Step 4: Serve Your Soup
- Ladle the creamy chicken tortellini soup into bowls.
- Serve with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes if desired.
Enjoy this savory dish that embodies comfort food at its best!
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup
Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup is a delightful dish that’s perfect for sharing. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving guests, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.
With Fresh Herbs
- Basil or Parsley: Finely chop and sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top for a burst of flavor.
- Chives: Add chopped chives for a mild onion flavor that complements the soup well.
Add Crunchy Toppings
- Croutons: Top your soup with homemade or store-bought croutons for added texture.
- Toasted Pine Nuts: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts for a nutty crunch and extra nutrition.
Incorporate Extra Cheese
- Parmesan Shavings: Freshly shaved Parmesan adds richness and enhances the cheesy aspect of the soup.
- Mozzarella Balls: Add small mozzarella balls just before serving for an extra cheesy delight.
Serve with Bread
- Garlic Bread: A slice of garlic bread pairs perfectly, allowing you to soak up every drop of soup.
- Breadsticks: Soft, warm breadsticks are great for dipping and make the meal feel more complete.
How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup
To achieve the best version of Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup, consider these helpful tips.
- Flavoring: Use high-quality chicken stock to enhance the flavor base of your soup.
- Cream Consistency: Adjust the amount of heavy cream based on how rich you want your soup to be.
- Tortellini Timing: Add tortellini towards the end of cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Vegetable Variety: Feel free to add more vegetables like peas or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
- Season Gradually: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed to ensure balanced flavors throughout.
- Store Properly: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, but be mindful that tortellini can absorb liquid over time.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup
Pairing side dishes with Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider:
- Garlic Bread: A classic choice that complements the creamy soup beautifully; serve it warm for best results.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a light side that balances the hearty soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies add a healthy touch and can be prepared easily alongside your main dish.
- Cheesy Breadsticks: These warm, cheesy bites are perfect for dipping into your creamy soup.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms bring an elegant touch; they can be made ahead and served warm.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup can be simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the final result. Here are some pitfalls to steer clear of:
- Using cold ingredients: Make sure your chicken and cream are at room temperature before adding them to the soup. This helps maintain a consistent cooking temperature.
- Overcooking the tortellini: Follow the package instructions for cooking tortellini. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and lose its delightful texture.
- Not seasoning adequately: Taste your soup before serving. Adding salt and pepper at the end can enhance flavors significantly.
- Skipping fresh vegetables: Fresh veggies add flavor and nutrients. Don’t skip on the onion, carrots, celery, or spinach!
- Rushing the simmering process: Allowing the soup to simmer helps develop rich flavors. Don’t rush this step; patience is key.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup
- Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers.
- It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish; cover with foil and heat until warm.
- Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common queries about making Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup that might help you out!
Can I use frozen tortellini in Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup?
Yes! Frozen tortellini works great. Just add it directly into the pot without thawing.
How can I customize Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup?
You can add different vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms. Adjust seasonings according to your taste.
What can I serve with Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal.
Is Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup healthy?
While it is creamy, using fresh vegetables and lean chicken makes it a nutritious option for lunch or dinner.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup is a delightful mix of flavors and textures that brings comfort on chilly days. With its versatility, you can easily customize it to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Give it a try, and enjoy its warmth and richness on your next cozy evening!
Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup
Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup is a warm and inviting dish that embodies comfort food at its best. This savory soup combines tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and a colorful array of fresh vegetables, all enveloped in a luxurious creamy broth. In just 35 minutes, you can create a satisfying meal that is perfect for chilly evenings or casual gatherings with friends and family. Whether served as a main course or alongside crusty bread, this delightful soup is sure to please both kids and adults alike. With its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, it’s guaranteed to become a staple in your recipe collection.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately six people
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery ribs, sliced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ cup flour
- 6 cups chicken stock
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded chicken breast
- 10 oz cheese tortellini
- 3 cups baby spinach
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery; cook until the onion is translucent (about 5 minutes). Stir in garlic for another minute.
- Sprinkle flour into the pot and stir until incorporated. Gradually add chicken stock along with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, paprika, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a boil then reduce to a simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Stir in the shredded chicken, tortellini, and spinach; cook until the tortellini is tender (3-5 minutes).
- Serve hot with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 405
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
