Name: Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon dried parsley; ½ teaspoon dried oregano; ½ teaspoon mustard powder; ¼ teaspoon ground sage; ¼ teaspoon pepper; 1 1/4 lb. bone-in chicken breast; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 yellow onion, diced; ¾ cup diced carrots; 2 ribs celery, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 6 cups chicken broth; 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot); 10 oz. refrigerated cheese-filled tortellini (about 2 cups; recommend Rana brand)

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If you are craving something cozy, flavorful, and utterly satisfying, this Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine tender shredded chicken, delicate cheese-filled tortellini, and a rich, flavorful broth that brings warmth and comfort with every spoonful. This soup is a perfect blend of creamy texture and hearty ingredients that come together so beautifully, making it ideal for chilly evenings, family dinners, or simply anytime you want a hug in a bowl.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The first image shows a white pot with two small rectangles of butter melting inside it, the base is covered with brown bits from cooking, a red spatula with white polka dots is resting on the side. The second image shows the same white pot filled with diced orange carrots, light green celery pieces, and bits of mushrooms in a broth. A pale yellow liquid is being poured into the pot from above, adding to the vegetable mixture. The pot sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

What’s magical about this soup is how straightforward yet essential the ingredients are. Each one contributes to creating that perfect balance of savory, creamy, and just a touch of spice to make the soup sing.

Dried basil (1 teaspoon): Adds a sweet, aromatic flavor that complements the chicken perfectly.
Dried parsley (1 teaspoon): Brings a mild, fresh note enhancing the overall herbaceous flavor profile.
Dried oregano (½ teaspoon): Lends a warm, slightly peppery tone to deepen the soup’s complexity.
Mustard powder (½ teaspoon): A subtle tang that brightens the broth without overpowering.
Ground sage (¼ teaspoon): Provides an earthy hint, tying into the savory chicken beautifully.
Pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds a touch of heat to balance the creaminess.
Bone-in chicken breast (1 ¼ lb.): The star protein that infuses the broth with rich flavor and yields tender, juicy meat.
Salt and Pepper: To season everything perfectly.
Italian seasoning (2 teaspoons): A classic mix that boosts the Mediterranean essence of the dish.
Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Used to sear chicken and build flavor layers.
Butter (2 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps soften the aromatics beautifully.
Yellow onion (1, diced): A sweet and savory base that creates depth.
Carrots (¾ cup, diced): Offer a slight sweetness and nice texture contrast.
Celery (2 ribs, diced): Adds a subtle earthiness and crunch.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): A must for that bold, irresistible aroma.
Chicken broth (6 cups): The flavorful liquid heart of the soup.
Worcestershire sauce (1 teaspoon): A secret flavor enhancer that lifts the taste profile.
Hot sauce (1 teaspoon): Provides a gentle, warming kick.
Refrigerated tortellini (10 oz., about 2 cups): The delightful pasta that adds creamy texture and substance.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Searing the chicken is an optional step but highly recommended for adding that extra depth of flavor. First, season the chicken generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in your soup pot until shimmering, then add the chicken and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes per side until it develops a beautiful golden crust. This not only locks in juices but also creates fond—the tasty browned bits that boost the richness of your broth. Remove the chicken from the pot and let it rest for about 10 minutes before shredding it with two forks.

Step 2: Build the Base

With the chicken off the heat, it’s time to start layering flavors in the same pot. Melt the butter and use a spatula to scrape up any browned bits left from the chicken. Then add diced onion, carrots, and celery to cook for about 5 minutes until they’re mellow and just beginning to soften. Toss in minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and the combined dried seasonings. Let everything cook together for an additional minute to release those wonderful aromas.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

Pour in the chicken broth and add your shredded chicken right back in. Bring the pot to a gentle bubble—avoid a rolling boil to keep the chicken tender. Cover partially and let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows all the flavors to mingle and the seasoning to infuse throughout.

Step 4: Cook the Tortellini

Finally, stir in the refrigerated tortellini. Depending on the brand, cooking time varies—Rana’s tortellini just needs about 3 minutes until perfectly tender. Once cooked, taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt or pepper as needed. And that’s it! Your creamy, heartwarming soup is ready to enjoy.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe

A white bowl filled with clear broth soup containing multiple layers of yellow tortellini pasta, shredded white chicken pieces, small orange carrot chunks, and bits of green herbs sprinkled on top. A silver spoon rests inside the bowl on the right side. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with some green leaves in the background and a wooden board near the top right corner. The soup looks warm and fresh. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your serving, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan or Romano cheese on top. A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a lovely burst of color and fresh flavor. For a little crunch, some Ranch Oyster Crackers or your favorite croutons bring a delightful texture that complements the creamy soup perfectly.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed with light vinaigrette or a crusty piece of garlic bread to mop up every last drop. For a heartier meal, consider serving alongside roasted vegetables or a warm, buttered roll. These sides create a balanced plate and keep the meal exciting.

Creative Ways to Present

Try ladling the soup into pretty, warm bowls and topping each with a small dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of pesto for a gourmet touch. Another fun idea is to serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls, transforming it into a festive centerpiece perfect for gatherings or casual family dinners.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days when stored in an airtight container. Be mindful that the tortellini will continue to absorb the broth over time, so for the best texture, consider storing the pasta separately and adding it freshly when reheating.

Freezing

Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe freezes beautifully, especially if you cook and freeze the tortellini separately. Freeze the broth and shredded chicken in portions that suit your needs. When ready to eat, thaw gently, reheat the soup, and add freshly cooked tortellini just before serving for that perfect texture.

Reheating

Reheat the soup gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If stored with the tortellini, expect the pasta to be quite soft; adding fresh tortellini during reheating can refresh the dish. Adjust seasoning as needed since flavors can mellow after storage.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken instead of bone-in breast?

Absolutely! While bone-in chicken adds more flavor to the broth, boneless chicken breasts or thighs will work just fine and are quicker to shred. Just make sure not to overcook so the meat stays tender.

What if I don’t have refrigerated tortellini?

You can substitute with frozen tortellini or even fresh pasta, adjusting the cooking time accordingly. Just be mindful that cooking times vary, so check the package instructions to avoid overcooking.

Is the hot sauce really necessary? Will it make the soup spicy?

The hot sauce acts as a subtle flavor enhancer and does not make the soup noticeably spicy. Feel free to adjust or omit it according to your taste preferences.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add sautéed mushrooms or beans to boost protein and flavor, and of course, keep the tortellini to maintain that creamy texture.

How can I make this soup creamier?

If you want to amp up the creaminess, consider stirring in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half near the end of cooking. You can also add a handful of grated Parmesan cheese for richness without overpowering the other flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a warm invitation to savor something comforting and delicious. Whether you’re cooking for family or cozying up solo, this soup delivers soul-satisfying flavor with every spoonful. I encourage you to try making it soon—you’ll be amazed at how simple ingredients can create such a memorable dish that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need