Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup

Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup is the kind of recipe you reach for when you want something warm, filling, and comforting without spending all night in the kitchen. Tender chicken, soft cheese tortellini, and vegetables are simmered together in a rich, creamy broth that tastes like it’s been cooking all day — but it’s ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect for chilly nights, busy weeknights, or whenever you’re craving a bowl of comfort.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 stalk celery, finely chopped
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded
• 9 ounces fresh cheese tortellini
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ⅓ cup fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, celery, and carrots; cook 5–6 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Add shredded chicken, tortellini, thyme, salt, and pepper.
6. Cook 5–7 minutes, until tortellini are tender.
7. Stir in heavy cream and fresh parsley.
8. Serve hot and enjoy immediately.

Serving & Storage Tips

• Serve with crusty bread, garlic knots, or a side salad
• Garnish with extra parsley or grated Parmesan
• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
• Reheat gently on the stovetop; add a splash of broth if thickened
• Not freezer-friendly due to cream and tortellini texture

Variations

1. Spinach Chicken Tortellini Soup – Stir in fresh spinach during the last 2 minutes.
2. Mushroom Lover’s Version – Add sliced mushrooms with the onions.
3. Creamy Tomato Tortellini Soup – Add 1 cup crushed tomatoes for depth.
4. Garlic Parmesan Upgrade – Add ½ cup grated Parmesan with the cream.
5. Italian Herb Style – Add basil, oregano, and rosemary.
6. Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño.
7. Bacon Chicken Tortellini Soup – Stir in crispy cooked bacon at the end.
8. Rotisserie Chicken Shortcut – Use store-bought rotisserie chicken.
9. Low-Carb Option – Replace tortellini with zucchini noodles.
10. Extra Veggie Loaded – Add peas, corn, or green beans.
11. Cream Cheese Version – Swap heavy cream for softened cream cheese.
12. Dairy-Free – Use coconut milk and dairy-free tortellini.
13. Lemon Herb Twist – Add lemon zest and juice before serving.
14. Pesto Cream Soup – Stir in 2 tablespoons basil pesto.
15. Tuscan Style – Add sun-dried tomatoes and spinach.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, add 1–2 extra minutes of cook time.

2. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but add tortellini when reheating for best texture.

3. What chicken works best?
Rotisserie, baked, or leftover grilled chicken all work well.

4. Can I use milk instead of cream?
Yes, but the soup will be thinner and less rich.

5. How do I thicken the soup?
Simmer longer or add a cornstarch slurry.

6. Can I freeze this soup?
Not recommended — cream and pasta don’t freeze well.

7. What’s the best broth to use?
Low-sodium chicken broth gives you better control of salt.

8. Can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free tortellini and check broth labels.

9. How long does it last in the fridge?
Up to 3 days in an airtight container.

10. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely — great for meal prep or feeding a crowd.

Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup is the ultimate comfort food — warm, hearty, and incredibly easy to make. With tender chicken, soft tortellini, and a rich, creamy broth, this soup comes together quickly while tasting like it simmered all day. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or anytime you need a satisfying meal the whole family will love. One pot, simple ingredients, and big comfort in every spoonful. 🍲💛

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