Before we dive deep into the comforting hug that is chicken tortellini soup, let’s take a moment to think about what makes a great meal even better. Pairing food can elevate your dining experience remarkably. Here are a few ideas that will enhance your chicken tortellini soup:
1. Crusty Bread
There’s nothing quite like a slice of warm, crusty bread. It soaks up the broth perfectly, turning each bite into pure bliss.
2. Fresh Salad
A bright side salad, perhaps with a lemon vinaigrette, complements the soup and adds a refreshing edge.
3. Garlic Bread
Who could resist buttery, toasty garlic bread? It’s a fantastic match, allowing you to enjoy the soup even more.
4. Grated Parmesan Cheese
A sprinkle of aged Parmesan on top boosts the umami flavor, adding a bit of salty goodness.
Now that we’re armed with some fantastic pairings, let’s jump into this savory adventure.
What is Chicken Tortellini Soup?
Chicken tortellini soup merges comforting chicken broth, tender chicken, and cheesy tortellini into a delightful medley. It’s the ultimate cozy meal—perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays. You’ll find this dish tickling your taste buds with a mix of herbs and spices that dance gracefully through each spoonful.
Why This Recipe Works?
When you think about a recipe that truly shines, a few elements come to mind. This chicken tortellini soup possesses several key factors that make it irresistible:
Rich Flavor Profile
The use of bone-in chicken breast creates a deep, rich flavor. This adds a comforting depth to the broth, making it far more satisfying than plain chicken soup.
Quick and Easy
When you’re juggling a busy life, time is often in short supply. This soup can be whipped together in less than an hour, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight meal.
Nutrient-Packed
With fresh vegetables and lean chicken, this soup is loaded with protein, vitamins, and minerals. It’s not just comforting; it’s also nutritious.
Versatile Ingredients
Feel free to experiment! You can easily adjust this recipe based on what you have on hand, including different vegetables or even alternative proteins.
Ingredients You’ll Need to Make This Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe
Here’s your shopping list for this delightful dish:
Chicken and Soup Base
- 1¼ lb. bone-in, skin-on chicken breast
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon mild hot sauce (adjust to taste)
Vegetables
- ¾ cup chopped carrots (small dice)
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
Seasonings
- ½ teaspoon each: dried oregano, onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon each: ground sage, freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 teaspoon each: dried basil leaves, dried flat-leaf parsley flakes
- 2 teaspoons rustic Italian herb blend (or Italian seasoning)
Pasta and Additions
- 10 oz. fresh cheese tortellini
- ¼ cup finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
How to Make Chicken Tortellini Soup
Now, let’s roll up our sleeves and get cooking! Here’s how to make this delicious soup step by step.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s melted, add the bone-in chicken breast. Sear it for about 5 minutes on each side until it’s golden brown. This step builds flavor right from the start.
Step 2: Add Vegetables
Next, toss in your chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté these veggies for about 5-7 minutes, or until they’re softened. The aroma will be starting to waft through your kitchen!
Step 3: Pour in Broth and Seasonings
Now, pour in the chicken broth. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and your seasoning blend. Bring it to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Allow it to cook for around 20-25 minutes. During this time, the chicken will cook through and infuse its flavor into the soup.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked (it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F), carefully remove it from the pot. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken back to the pot.
Step 5: Add Tortellini and Finish Cooking
Bring the soup back to a simmer and stir in the tortellini and sun-dried tomatoes, if you’re using them. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the tortellini floats to the surface and is cooked through.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as needed. Ladle it into bowls and garnish with freshly cracked black pepper. For an extra kick, sprinkle some grated Parmesan on top. Voilà! Dinner is served.
Tips for Making the Perfect Chicken Tortellini Soup
Use High-Quality Ingredients
Fresh tortellini from the refrigerated section will give your soup the best taste. The same goes for broth! If you can make homemade broth, that’s the golden ticket.
Don’t Overcook the Tortellini
Follow the package instructions closely. Overcooked tortellini can turn mushy, which detracts from the soup’s texture.
Experiment with Vegetables
Feel free to add in any leftover veggies you have. Spinach or kale can make great additions. Just add them in towards the end to retain their color and nutrients.
Adjust Spice Levels
If you like heat, ramp up the hot sauce. Enjoy milder flavors? Pull back on the Worcestershire.
Make it Ahead
This is a fantastic soup to make ahead of time. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even tastier the next day.
Nutrition Information
This recipe serves around 6 and offers a healthy balance of nutrients. Each serving provides approximately:
- Calories: 360
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Fat: 15g
This meal keeps you satisfied without weighing you down, making it a great option for any day of the week.
How to Store the Leftovers?
If there are any leftovers (which is rare with this comforting soup), allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Just be aware that the tortellini might get a bit softer when reheating.
What Are Some Recommended Side Dishes for Chicken Tortellini Soup?
If you want to round out your meal, consider these delightful options:
Garlic Bread
Warm, buttery, and flavorful—perfect for dipping into the soup. It’s a classic pairing that you just can’t go wrong with.
Simple Green Salad
A light salad with mixed greens and a vinaigrette can cleanse the palate, balancing the richness of the soup.
Caesar Salad
The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons enhance the experience and add a satisfying crunch.
Bruschetta
Toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella provides a refreshing appetizer or side.
Substitute Options for the Ingredients
Not everything may be available, and that’s okay! Here are some easy swaps:
Chicken Breast
Use shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick alternative.
Tortellini
If you can’t find tortellini, any small pasta like ditalini or orzo works as well.
Vegetable Broth
For a vegetarian version, swap chicken broth for vegetable broth.
Fresh Veggies
If your pantry is missing celery or carrots, diced zucchini or bell peppers will add wonderful flavor.
Conclusion
Chicken tortellini soup is one of those magical meals that promises nourishment and comfort. Whether it’s a rainy day or a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe has you covered. With straightforward ingredients and simple steps, making this soup can be a delightful part of your kitchen routine.
Don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular on your meal plan—it has that much potential to become a favorite. So grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy every delicious spoonful!
You’ll also like the following recipes!
Chicken Tortellini Soup – Quick Delicious Meals
Have you ever had a bowl of soup that felt like a warm embrace during a chilly evening? Chicken tortellini soup is that dish. Packed with rich flavors and delightful textures, it delivers both comfort and nourishment in every bite.
As a registered dietitian and avid cook, I've spent countless hours experimenting in the kitchen, and this recipe has, without a doubt, earned its place among my favorites.
But why is this chicken tortellini soup recipe so appealing? Let’s uncover the reasons behind its widespread love.
Ingredients
Chicken and Soup Base
Vegetables
Seasonings
Pasta and Additions
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
-
Start by heating olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s melted, add the bone-in chicken breast. Sear it for about 5 minutes on each side until it’s golden brown. This step builds flavor right from the start.
Step 2: Add Vegetables
-
Next, toss in your chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté these veggies for about 5-7 minutes, or until they’re softened. The aroma will be starting to waft through your kitchen!
Step 3: Pour in Broth and Seasonings
-
Now, pour in the chicken broth. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and your seasoning blend. Bring it to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Allow it to cook for around 20-25 minutes. During this time, the chicken will cook through and infuse its flavor into the soup.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
-
Once the chicken is cooked (it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F), carefully remove it from the pot. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken back to the pot.
Step 5: Add Tortellini and Finish Cooking
-
Bring the soup back to a simmer and stir in the tortellini and sun-dried tomatoes, if you’re using them. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the tortellini floats to the surface and is cooked through.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
-
Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as needed. Ladle it into bowls and garnish with freshly cracked black pepper. For an extra kick, sprinkle some grated Parmesan on top. Voilà! Dinner is served.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 10
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 360kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 15g24%
- Total Carbohydrate 32g11%
- Dietary Fiber 4g16%
- Protein 25g50%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Use High-Quality Ingredients
Fresh tortellini from the refrigerated section will give your soup the best taste. The same goes for broth! If you can make homemade broth, that’s the golden ticket. - Don’t Overcook the Tortellini
Follow the package instructions closely. Overcooked tortellini can turn mushy, which detracts from the soup’s texture. - Experiment with Vegetables
Feel free to add in any leftover veggies you have. Spinach or kale can make great additions. Just add them in towards the end to retain their color and nutrients. - Adjust Spice Levels
If you like heat, ramp up the hot sauce. Enjoy milder flavors? Pull back on the Worcestershire. - Make it Ahead
This is a fantastic soup to make ahead of time. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even tastier the next day.
