Name: Easy Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 medium onion, chopped; 3 sticks celery, finely chopped; 3 large carrots, peeled and chopped or sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 8 cups chicken broth; 2 cups shredded cooked or rotisserie chicken (or more, to taste); 2 (9 ounce) packages refrigerated cheese tortellini; Salt and pepper, to taste; Chopped parsley, to taste

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If you are craving a comforting and hearty meal that comes together quickly, this Easy Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe is just what you need. It combines tender shredded chicken, cheesy tortellini, and vibrant veggies in a flavorful broth that warms you from the inside out. Whether you want a cozy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleaser for your family, this soup hits all the right notes with its wonderful balance of taste, texture, and color. It’s so simple to make, yet feels like a special treat every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Photo shows two images side by side, both with a black round pan on a white marbled surface. The left image has one layer with small pieces of chopped light yellow onion spread evenly across the pan bottom. The right image also shows the same pan, filled with three layers: the bottom layer is the same chopped light yellow onion, covered by a layer of small, vibrant orange carrot cubes and bright green celery pieces mixed evenly on top. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting your ingredients ready for this soup is a breeze, and each one plays an essential role in making the flavors pop. From the aromatic veggies to the cheesy tortellini, every component adds something special—whether it’s richness, freshness, or that satisfying bite.

Olive oil: Provides a smooth base to sauté the onions and veggies, enhancing their natural sweetness.
Onion: Adds earthy flavor and aroma, creating a delicious foundation for the soup.
Celery: Offers a subtle crunch and refreshing note that balances the richness of the broth.
Carrots: Bring natural sweetness and a pop of vibrant color to the soup.
Garlic: Imparts a warm, savory depth that lifts all the other flavors beautifully.
Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that gives the soup its classic herbaceous Mediterranean flair.
Chicken broth: The soul of the soup; rich and flavorful broth makes every spoonful comforting.
Shredded cooked chicken: Tender, protein-packed goodness that turns this soup into a satisfying meal.
Cheese tortellini: The star ingredient that adds a creamy, cheesy center every bite you take.
Salt & pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and brighten the flavors.
Chopped parsley: A fresh herb garnish that adds a burst of color and a hint of brightness.

How to Make Easy Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Base Vegetables

Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat, then add the chopped onion. Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until the onion is soft and starting to develop a slight golden color. This step is crucial because caramelized onions bring out sweetness that will enrich the entire soup.

Step 2: Add Celery, Carrots, Garlic, and Italian Seasoning

Next, toss in the finely chopped celery, peeled and chopped carrots, minced garlic, and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning. Stir everything together and let it cook for a few more minutes. This allows the fresh vegetables to soften slightly and release their wonderful aromas into the pot.

Step 3: Pour in Chicken Broth and Simmer

Pour 8 cups of chicken broth into the pot and increase the heat to high until the soup starts to boil. Then reduce it to a rapid simmer, letting the veggies cook for about 10 minutes or until they reach your preferred tenderness. This simmering stage gives the broth time to soak up all the flavors from the vegetables and herbs.

Step 4: Add Chicken and Cheese Tortellini

Stir in the shredded chicken and refrigerated cheese tortellini, then turn the heat back up to medium-high. Keep an eye on the pot and let the soup cook just until the tortellini is tender and heated through, which usually just takes a few minutes. Make sure the soup doesn’t boil too aggressively to avoid overcooking the pasta.

Step 5: Season and Garnish

Give the soup a taste, then season with salt and pepper as needed to bring all the flavors together. Finish by sprinkling chopped parsley over the top, adding a fresh, vibrant touch before serving immediately.

How to Serve Easy Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe

A white speckled bowl filled with clear golden broth layered with soft yellow tortellini scattered evenly throughout. There are small diced orange carrots and light green celery pieces in the soup, mixed with shredded white chicken. Tiny bits of fresh green herbs float on top, adding color contrast. The broth shows slight bubbles and a sheen of oil on the surface. The bowl is set on a white marbled texture surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

While the chopped parsley is classic, you can also add a little grated Parmesan or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for extra indulgence. Fresh basil leaves or a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the soup beautifully on colder days.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with a crunchy baguette or garlic bread to soak up every last drop. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can add refreshing contrast, rounding out your meal effortlessly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this soup in mini bread bowls or garnish with crispy prosciutto crumbles for extra texture. Setting the bowl atop a wooden charger or rustic plate makes for an inviting presentation that guests will admire before they even take a bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any leftover soup into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen over time, making it just as delicious the next day. Just be mindful the tortellini might absorb some broth.

Freezing

If you want to keep this soup on hand longer, freeze it without the tortellini in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw and add fresh tortellini to a simmering pot of soup to cook through.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat to avoid overcooking the pasta or drying out the chicken. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup seems too thick. Stir frequently until warmed through and ready to enjoy again.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini for this soup?

Yes, frozen cheese tortellini works well too; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time and keep an eye on the texture so it doesn’t get mushy.

Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and swap the shredded chicken for sautéed mushrooms or your favorite plant-based chicken alternative.

How can I make the soup spicier?

For a little kick, add crushed red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic, or top each serving with a drizzle of spicy chili oil. It pairs wonderfully with the creamy tortellini.

What type of chicken is best to use?

Rotisserie chicken is perfect for quick prep and great flavor, but leftover baked or poached chicken works just as well—just shred it before adding to the soup.

Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Combine all ingredients except the tortellini in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Add the tortellini in the last 20-30 minutes so it cooks to perfection without getting too soft.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients and straightforward steps can create something deeply satisfying and full of warmth. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a hug in a bowl and is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Give it a try, and you’ll see why I keep coming back to it time and time again!

Easy Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need