Easy Chicken Tortellini Soup

This Easy Chicken Tortellini Soup is a hearty, flavorful, and comforting meal made with tender vegetables, juicy shredded chicken, and cheesy tortellini—all simmered in a savory broth. Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s the perfect weeknight soup that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Whether you’re looking to use up leftover rotisserie chicken or need something quick and filling, this soup hits the spot.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This soup is a one-pot wonder that’s as simple to make as it is satisfying. It’s loaded with fresh vegetables and cheesy tortellini for a perfectly balanced meal. Using pre-cooked chicken saves time, while the Italian seasoning adds a subtle herbaceous depth. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or simply craving comfort food, this easy chicken tortellini soup is always a good choice.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1/2 medium onion, chopped

• 3 celery stalks, finely chopped

• 3 large carrots, peeled and chopped or sliced

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 8 cups chicken broth

• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (such as rotisserie)

• 2 (9 oz) packages refrigerated cheese tortellini

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Chopped parsley, to garnish

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 5–7 minutes, until softened and lightly browned.

2. Add celery, carrots, garlic, and Italian seasoning. Stir well and cook for an additional 3–4 minutes.

3. Pour in the chicken broth. Increase heat to high and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce to a rapid simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

4. Stir in the shredded chicken and cheese tortellini. Increase heat slightly and cook for a few more minutes, just until the tortellini are tender and cooked through. Avoid letting the soup boil too vigorously.

5. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.

6. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Yield: 6 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Add greens: Stir in a few handfuls of baby spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition.

• Creamy version: Add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end for a rich, creamy broth.

• Spicy twist: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.

• Use different tortellini: Try meat-filled or spinach and ricotta tortellini for a flavor variation.

• Make it vegetarian: Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth and vegetarian tortellini for a meatless version.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: This soup is best fresh; the tortellini can become mushy when frozen. If freezing, do so before adding the tortellini, then add fresh tortellini when reheating.
Reheating: Warm gently over medium heat on the stovetop or microwave in short intervals, stirring between each, until hot.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes, just adjust the cook time slightly. Frozen tortellini may take a couple of minutes longer to cook.

What type of chicken works best?

Rotisserie chicken is convenient and flavorful, but any cooked, shredded chicken will work—grilled, poached, or roasted.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes. Add all ingredients except tortellini and cook on low for 4–6 hours. Add tortellini during the last 20–30 minutes.

How do I keep tortellini from overcooking?

Add it only toward the end and monitor closely. Once they float and are tender, they’re done.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, but if you plan to serve it later, consider cooking and storing the tortellini separately to avoid it becoming too soft.

Can I add cream cheese or sour cream?

Yes. Stir in a spoonful of either at the end for a creamy finish and extra richness.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Not as written. Use gluten-free tortellini and broth to make it suitable for gluten-free diets.

What herbs pair well with this soup?

Basil, parsley, thyme, and oregano all pair beautifully with the flavors in this soup.

Can I add beans for extra protein?

Yes, cannellini beans or chickpeas would be a great addition for added protein and texture.

Can I use homemade chicken broth?

Absolutely. Homemade broth will enhance the flavor even more and add richness to the soup.

Conclusion

Easy Chicken Tortellini Soup is a weeknight lifesaver that’s both nourishing and delicious. It’s warm, hearty, and full of familiar, comforting flavors—perfect for the whole family. With just a few pantry staples and 40 minutes, you’ll have a meal that feels like it took hours to make. Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete, satisfying dinner.

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