Name: Chicken Tortellini Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 8 cups chicken broth; 2 bay leaves; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 package (about 9 ounces) cheese tortellini, fresh or frozen; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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When the weather outside turns chilly, there’s nothing quite like a cozy bowl of soup to warm you up. This Chicken Tortellini Soup is a delightful combination of tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and cheesy tortellini, making it an all-in-one comfort meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners. Not only is it quick to make, but it also brings a burst of flavor that’s sure to satisfy the whole family. My experience with this particular recipe is that it never fails to bring smiles, not just for its taste but also for its heartwarming aroma that fills the kitchen!

Why you’ll love this dish

This Chicken Tortellini Soup is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile. Whether you’re looking for something quick to throw together on a busy weeknight or a satisfying dish to impress friends at a weekend gathering, this soup fits the bill. It’s budget-friendly, makes use of simple ingredients, and is incredibly kid-approved; what’s not to love?

"This soup has become a staple in our home! It’s packed with flavor and is so comforting. Even my picky eater loves it!" – A happy home cook

Step-by-step overview

Making Chicken Tortellini Soup is a straightforward process that results in a delicious dish with minimal effort. First, you’ll sauté the vegetables to create a flavorful base. Next, you cook the chicken until tender and add your broth and seasonings to build the soup. Finally, you’ll stir in the tortellini for that comforting, cheesy finish. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the entire process, making meal prep a breeze.

What you’ll need

For this delightful Chicken Tortellini Soup, gather the following ingredients:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
8 cups chicken broth
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 package (about 9 ounces) cheese tortellini, fresh or frozen
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

If you’re looking to make this soup a bit lighter, you can certainly use skinless chicken thighs or opt for whole wheat tortellini as alternatives.

Directions to follow

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion, carrots, and celery for about 5 minutes, until tender.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute or so until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth and add the chicken pieces, bay leaves, and thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
Stir in the tortellini and cook according to package directions (approximately 5–7 minutes) until tender.
Remove the bay leaves and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the chopped parsley before serving.
Serve hot, garnished with extra parsley if desired.

Best ways to enjoy it

This Chicken Tortellini Soup is perfect on its own, but if you’re looking to elevate your meal, consider serving it alongside crusty garlic bread or a hearty salad. A light drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese can also add a delightful finishing touch.

Storage and reheating tips

To keep your leftover Chicken Tortellini Soup fresh, allow it to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the soup in freezer-safe containers. Just remember to leave some space at the top, as liquids can expand when frozen.

When it’s time to enjoy leftovers, reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the soup has thickened upon cooling, you can add a splash of chicken broth or water to return it to your desired consistency.

Helpful cooking tips

Always season the chicken before cooking to ensure it has a flavorful base.
Sautéing the vegetables before adding liquids helps to release their natural flavors and enhances the overall taste of the soup.
Don’t overcrowd the pot; if you’re making a larger batch, consider using two pots or making it in batches to maintain the cooking temperature.

Creative twists

Want to mix it up? Try adding other vegetables like spinach or zucchini for a more vibrant soup. You could also swap out the cheese tortellini for another pasta type, like orzo or ditalini, depending on your preference. For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes during the sautéing stage.

Common questions

How long does it take to make Chicken Tortellini Soup?

The total cooking time is approximately 40 minutes, making it a quick option for busy weeknights.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes! Frozen chicken can be used, but be sure to thaw it in advance and verify that it’s cooked thoroughly.

Is it safe to freeze the soup?

Absolutely. Just be aware that the texture of the tortellini may change slightly after freezing and reheating, but it will still be delicious!

By following this recipe, you’re sure to create a bowl of Chicken Tortellini Soup that’s not only satisfying but also holds the warmth of home-cooked comfort food. Enjoy!