Name: Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe: Hearty and Comforting
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless (skinless chicken breasts); 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 medium onion (diced); 2 medium carrots (sliced); 2 celery stalks (sliced); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 6 cups chicken broth; 1 can (14.5 oz diced tomatoes, drained); 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp dried basil; 1/2 tsp kosher salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 9 oz fresh or frozen cheese tortellini; 2 cups fresh spinach (chopped); Optional: Fresh parsley (Parmesan shavings); Suggested Pairings: White wine (crusty bread)

Introduction

Table of Contents

Chicken Tortellini Soup is a classic main dish, perfect for family dinners, cozy gatherings, or comforting meals. This hearty soup, featuring tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and a flavorful broth packed with vegetables, delivers warmth and satisfaction in every spoonful. Presented in a white ceramic soup tureen or individual white ceramic bowls, garnished with fresh parsley or Parmesan shavings, this Chicken Tortellini Soup recipe offers a vibrant, appetizing aesthetic that elevates any table. This recipe provides a traditional version, adaptable for dietary preferences, ideal for home cooks seeking a wholesome, crowd-pleasing dish that brings cozy, homestyle charm to any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Tortellini Soup:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 medium carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups chicken broth
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp kosher salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
9 oz fresh or frozen cheese tortellini
2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

For Serving:

Optional: Fresh parsley, Parmesan shavings
Suggested Accompaniments: Crusty bread, side salad
Suggested Pairings: White wine (e.g., Pinot Grigio), herbal tea
Suggested Aesthetic: Serve in a white ceramic soup tureen or individual white ceramic bowls
Suggested Equipment: Large pot, knife, cutting board, measuring cups/spoons, ladle

Step-by-Step Process

Cook Chicken: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken breasts and cook for 5–6 minutes per side until cooked through (internal temperature 165°F). Remove, shred with two forks, and set aside.
Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Prepare Broth: Stir in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer. Taste the broth and adjust with a pinch of salt or extra thyme for balanced flavor.
Add Tortellini and Chicken: Add tortellini and shredded chicken to the pot. Simmer for 4–6 minutes (or per tortellini package instructions) until tortellini is tender.
Finish with Spinach: Stir in chopped spinach and cook for 1–2 minutes until wilted.
Serve: Ladle Chicken Tortellini Soup into a white ceramic soup tureen or individual white ceramic bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley or Parmesan shavings. Serve hot with crusty bread, side salad, white wine, or herbal tea.

Tips for Better Chicken Tortellini Soup

Use fresh or high-quality frozen tortellini for the best texture and flavor.
Taste the broth before adding tortellini to balance savory, herbaceous flavors; adjust cautiously.
Shred chicken finely for even distribution in the soup.
Add tortellini just before serving to prevent it from becoming mushy.
Present in a white ceramic soup tureen or bowls to highlight the colorful vegetables and golden broth.
Make ahead: Prepare broth and vegetables up to 1 day in advance; store in the fridge, then add tortellini and spinach when reheating.
For a thicker soup, add 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water during simmering.
Enhance aesthetic: Garnish with chopped parsley or Parmesan shavings in white ceramic bowls for a cozy, inviting look.

Variations and Customization

Gluten-Free Chicken Tortellini Soup: Use gluten-free tortellini and ensure broth is gluten-free.
Vegetarian Chicken Tortellini Soup: Replace chicken with 1 1/2 cups cooked white beans and use vegetable broth.
Low-Sodium Chicken Tortellini Soup: Use low-sodium broth and tomatoes; reduce salt to 1/4 tsp.
Spicy Chicken Tortellini Soup: Add 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes or 1 diced jalapeño with the garlic.
Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup: Stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half before adding spinach.
Kale Chicken Tortellini Soup: Replace spinach with 2 cups chopped kale for a heartier green.
Italian Chicken Tortellini Soup: Replace thyme and basil with 1 tbsp Italian seasoning and add 1/4 cup grated Parmesan to the broth.
Pesto Chicken Tortellini Soup: Stir in 2 tbsp pesto before serving for a vibrant flavor.

Storage and Serving Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Freeze soup (without tortellini) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge overnight, reheat, and add fresh tortellini when serving.
Serve hot for the best flavor and comforting texture.
Use as a main dish with light sides or a standalone meal for cozy evenings.
Pair with white wine or herbal tea to complement the savory, hearty flavor.
Present in a white ceramic soup tureen or bowls with garnishes for an appetizing, homestyle charm.

Nutritional Information

Based on 6 servings:

Calories: 340 kcal
Total Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 65mg
Sodium: 920mg
Total Carbohydrates: 32g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 5g
Protein: 26g
Vitamin A: 60% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 25% Daily Value
Calcium: 15% Daily Value
Iron: 15% Daily Value

Note: Values vary by ingredient brands and substitutions (low-sodium options reduce sodium to ~600mg). High in protein and vitamin A; enjoy with bread for balance.

Conclusion

This Chicken Tortellini Soup recipe delivers a hearty, comforting main dish, perfect for any occasion, transforming simple ingredients into a cozy classic. Its straightforward preparation and vibrant presentation make it a favorite. The tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and rich broth delight every spoonful. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its crowd-pleasing appeal.