When comfort food calls, nothing satisfies like a warm bowl of chicken tortellini soup. It’s rich, wholesome, and packed with hearty ingredients — juicy chicken, soft cheese tortellini, fresh vegetables, and a savory broth that warms you from the inside out.
Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner, a make-ahead lunch, or something to soothe a cold day, this soup delivers with both taste and simplicity.
Why You’ll Love Chicken Tortellini Soup
- One pot: Minimal cleanup with big flavor.
- Hearty and filling: Protein-rich chicken and cheese-filled pasta satisfy hunger.
- Balanced nutrition: Includes lean protein, complex carbs, and vegetables.
- Family favorite: Kid-friendly and adult-approved.
- Free of pork and alcohol: Clean, inclusive, and safe for various diets.
This soup is the kind of meal you make once and crave again and again. It’s wholesome, budget-friendly, and comforting without being heavy.
Ingredients Breakdown
This chicken tortellini soup uses basic pantry staples and comes together quickly.
For the Soup Base:
- Olive oil: Adds healthy fat and helps sauté aromatics.
- Onion, garlic, carrot, and celery: These create a flavorful base and provide nutrients and texture.
For the Protein and Pasta:
- Chicken: Use shredded rotisserie, grilled, or leftover cooked chicken breast or thighs.
- Cheese tortellini: Found fresh or refrigerated, they cook quickly and give a creamy bite.
For Flavor and Seasoning:
- Chicken broth: Use low-sodium for better control over salt.
- Dried herbs: Basil and oregano enhance the soup with classic Italian flair.
- Spinach: Optional, but adds a vibrant green and boosts nutrition.
- Lemon juice: A small splash brightens all the flavors.
How to Make Chicken Tortellini Soup
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
In a large soup pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–6 minutes until they begin to soften. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Add Broth and Simmer
Pour in the chicken broth, then stir in the shredded chicken, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a simmer. Let it cook for 10 minutes to develop flavor.
Step 3: Cook the Tortellini
Add cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions (typically 5–7 minutes). Be sure not to overcook or they’ll break apart.
Step 4: Add Spinach and Brighten
Stir in baby spinach until wilted. Finish with lemon juice, tasting to adjust seasoning. Add more pepper or herbs as desired.
Optional Add-Ins
This soup is easy to customize. Here are some ideas:
- Zucchini or yellow squash: Dice and add with the carrots.
- Mushrooms: Slice and sauté with the onions.
- White beans: Add for extra protein and fiber.
- Chopped tomatoes: Stir in a can of diced tomatoes for a tangy twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this soup with:
- Crusty whole grain bread or garlic toast
- A light green salad with vinaigrette
- A sprinkle of shredded parmesan (alcohol-free, vegetarian version)
- A side of roasted vegetables
It’s great for lunchboxes, meal prep, or as a light dinner paired with a hearty side.
Storage and Leftovers
Chicken tortellini soup stores well for several days, making it perfect for batch cooking.
Refrigerator:
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Freezer:
- For best results, freeze the soup without tortellini.
- Add fresh pasta when reheating to avoid soggy noodles.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Based on 6 servings)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 370 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4 g |
| Carbohydrates | 35 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Sodium | 710 mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes. Frozen tortellini works perfectly in this soup. Add directly to the pot and increase cook time by 2–3 minutes until tender.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes. To avoid soggy pasta, prepare the soup base ahead and store the tortellini separately. Add tortellini just before serving.
What vegetables can I add?
You can add mushrooms, zucchini, kale, diced tomatoes, or even peas. Just add firmer vegetables early in cooking and tender greens at the end.
Is this soup freezer-friendly?
Yes, but for best results freeze the soup without the tortellini. Add pasta fresh when reheating for best texture.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?
Definitely. Chicken thighs stay tender and add a richer flavor. Dice or shred them before adding to the soup.
How can I thicken the soup?
If you prefer a thicker broth, mash some of the cooked vegetables before serving, or stir in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water.
Final Thoughts
Chicken tortellini soup is the perfect balance of cozy comfort and practical simplicity. It’s full of familiar ingredients, easy to customize, and loved by all ages. With a warm broth, tender pasta, and flavorful chicken, this dish is ideal for both everyday meals and special occasions.
Make it once, and it’s sure to earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.
Chicken Tortellini Soup
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 medium carrots diced
- 2 ribs celery diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
Protein & Pasta
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken rotisserie or leftover; breast or thighs
- 1 pound cheese tortellini fresh or refrigerated
Broth & Seasoning
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt or to taste
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
Finish
- 2 cups baby spinach loosely packed
- 1 tbsp lemon juice fresh, to brighten
Instructions
- Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery; cook 5–6 minutes until beginning to soften. Stir in garlic and cook 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add broth & season: Pour in chicken broth. Stir in shredded chicken, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook 10 minutes to develop flavor.
- Cook tortellini: Add tortellini and simmer according to package directions (about 5–7 minutes) until just tender. Avoid overcooking.
- Finish & serve: Stir in spinach until wilted, then add lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning. Ladle into bowls and serve warm.