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If you’re craving warmth and comfort, look no further than my Chicken Tortellini Soup. This hearty dish combines tender chicken, flavorful tortellini, and fresh veggies in a rich broth. It’s perfect for chilly days or when you need a quick meal. In this post, I’ll share my easy recipe, plus tips and substitutions to make it your own. Let’s dive in and create a bowl of deliciousness together!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Profile: This soup combines savory chicken, fresh vegetables, and the delightful taste of cheese tortellini, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.
- Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a total cook time of 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vegetables like carrots, celery, and spinach, this soup offers a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients or spices, making this soup versatile to fit your taste preferences.
Ingredients
Main ingredients for Chicken Tortellini Soup
For my Chicken Tortellini Soup, I use simple, fresh items. Here’s what you need:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, diced
– 2 stalks celery, diced
– 6 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 1 package (9 ounces) fresh cheese tortellini
– 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups baby spinach
– Fresh cilantro for garnish
These ingredients create a warm, tasty soup. The cheese tortellini gives it a nice touch.
Optional garnishes
Garnishes can make your soup look even better. Here are some options:
– Fresh cilantro leaves
– A sprinkle of black pepper
– Grated Parmesan cheese
These garnishes add flavor and a pretty look to your dish.
Substitutions for dietary restrictions
You can change some ingredients to fit your diet. Here are a few ideas:
– Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
– Swap chicken for tofu or beans for a plant-based meal.
– Choose gluten-free tortellini if needed.
With these swaps, you still get a hearty meal that everyone can enjoy!

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the vegetables
Start by gathering your ingredients. Chop the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté it for 3-4 minutes. The onion should look clear. Then, add the minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery. Cook these for another 5 minutes while stirring. This step builds a nice base of flavor.
Cooking the soup base
Next, pour in 6 cups of chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. The broth adds depth and warmth to the soup. Once it starts boiling, add 2 cups of cooked chicken and 1 package of fresh cheese tortellini. Don’t forget the 14.5-ounce can of diced tomatoes with green chilies! Add 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well. Reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for 5-7 minutes until the tortellini is tender.
Adding tortellini and chicken
Finally, stir in 2 cups of baby spinach. The spinach will wilt quickly, adding a splash of color and nutrients. Let it sit for 1-2 minutes. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning. You can add more salt or pepper if needed. When serving, use deep bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro. This adds a finishing touch to your hearty and comforting chicken tortellini soup!
Tips & Tricks
How to enhance flavor with spices
To boost the taste of your Chicken Tortellini Soup, use spices wisely. I love adding dried oregano and basil. These spices bring fresh notes to the soup. You can also sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for heat. If you want a zestier flavor, try adding a squeeze of lemon juice. Fresh herbs can also lift the taste. Use cilantro or parsley as a bright garnish.
Best practices for perfecting tortellini texture
You want your tortellini to be soft but not mushy. Add the tortellini only when the soup is boiling. This helps them cook perfectly. Follow the package instructions for cooking time. Usually, about five to seven minutes is enough. Stir gently to keep them from sticking together. You can taste them to check if they are ready. If they are firm but tender, you nailed it!
Serving suggestions for a complete meal
For a full meal, serve your soup with crusty bread. A fresh green salad pairs well, too. You can add a sprinkle of cheese on top for extra flavor. Serve the soup in deep bowls and garnish with cilantro. A dash of black pepper adds a nice touch. Enjoying this soup feels cozy and satisfying.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs can elevate the flavor of the soup significantly. Opt for organic produce when possible for the best taste.
- Cook Tortellini Separately: For a slightly firmer texture, consider cooking the tortellini separately and adding it to the soup just before serving.
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a spicier soup, add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to kick up the heat.
- Make it Ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove and add spinach just before serving to keep it fresh.

Variations
Spicy chicken tortellini soup options
You can add some heat to your chicken tortellini soup. A great way is to use diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes. These ingredients bring a nice kick. You may also try using spicy sausage instead of cooked chicken. This adds flavor and warmth. Another option is to use a can of diced tomatoes with jalapeños. This choice gives the soup a zesty twist.
Vegetarian adaptations for the soup
If you want a vegetarian version, there are simple swaps. Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter base. Use mushrooms or zucchini instead of chicken. They add texture and flavor. You can also add chickpeas for protein. Fresh tortellini can be found in cheese or spinach varieties. This keeps the soup hearty and satisfying.
Different broth choices for a unique taste
The type of broth you use can change the soup’s flavor. Chicken broth is classic, but vegetable broth works well too. For a richer taste, try using bone broth. This adds depth and extra nutrients. If you want something bold, try a miso broth. It gives a unique umami flavor. Each broth option offers a new twist to this comforting soup.
Storage Info
How to store leftover soup
To store leftover Chicken Tortellini Soup, let it cool down first. Pour the soup into an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to seal the container well to keep it fresh. Label it with the date to track how long it has been stored.
Freezing tips for Chicken Tortellini Soup
If you want to freeze the soup, it’s best to do this before adding the tortellini. Cook the soup base with all the vegetables and chicken, then cool it. Store it in freezer-safe bags or containers. Leave some space at the top for expansion. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you are ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight.
Reheating instructions for best results
To reheat the soup, pour it into a pot over medium heat. If it’s frozen, thaw it in the fridge first. Add a splash of broth or water if it seems thick. Stir it often until it heats through. If you stored it with tortellini, add fresh tortellini and simmer until they are tender, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Enjoy your warm, comforting bowl!
FAQs
Can I use frozen tortellini instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen tortellini. Just add them to the soup without thawing. Cook for a few extra minutes until they are tender. This saves time and is very convenient. Frozen tortellini often has great flavor and texture.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this soup gluten-free, use gluten-free tortellini. Many brands sell this option now. You can also check your chicken broth. Some broths may contain gluten, so read the label carefully. This way, everyone can enjoy the soup.
What other vegetables can I add to the soup?
You can add many veggies to this soup. Zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans work well. Just chop them small and add them when cooking the base. This adds color and boosts the flavor of your soup.
This blog post shared how to make Chicken Tortellini Soup step-by-step. We covered key ingredients, cooking methods, and tips to enhance flavor. You can even customize the soup for your needs or diet. Remember to store leftovers properly, so they stay fresh. With this soup, you enjoy warm, tasty meals anytime. This recipe is simple and fun, making it a great choice for everyone. Now it’s your turn to try i
Chicken Tortellini Fiesta Soup
A hearty and flavorful soup featuring chicken, tortellini, and fresh vegetables.
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 250 kcal
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 package (9 ounces) fresh cheese tortellini
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- to taste salt and pepper
- 2 cups baby spinach
- to garnish fresh cilantro
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Once boiling, add the cooked chicken, fresh tortellini, diced tomatoes (with their juice), dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the tortellini is tender.
Stir in the baby spinach and allow to wilt for 1-2 minutes.
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Serve the soup in deep bowls, garnished with additional cilantro leaves and a sprinkle of black pepper on top for added visual appeal.
Keyword chicken, fiesta, soup, tortellini
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