Hearty Tortellini Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Looking for a comforting and satisfying soup that’s perfect for any season? This Hearty Tortellini Chicken Noodle Soup combines the classic flavors of chicken noodle soup with the rich, cheesy goodness of tortellini. Packed with tender vegetables, shredded chicken, and warming herbs, it’s an easy one-pot meal your family will love.

What Is Tortellini Chicken Noodle Soup?

Tortellini Chicken Noodle Soup is a flavorful twist on traditional chicken noodle soup. Instead of regular noodles, it features cheese-filled tortellini, adding a creamy and hearty element to the dish. The blend of vegetables, herbs, and optional leafy greens makes it both nutritious and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Perfect for busy weeknights.
• Hearty and filling: The tortellini adds a delicious twist to the classic soup.
• Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or use gluten-free tortellini.
• One-pot meal: Minimal cleanup required.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 2 cups fresh or frozen cheese tortellini
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup spinach or kale (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Vegetables

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add diced onion, sliced carrots, diced celery, and minced garlic.
3. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.

Building the Soup Base

4. Pour in 8 cups of chicken broth.
5. Stir in the cooked shredded chicken, dried thyme, dried parsley, salt, and pepper.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.

Cooking the Tortellini

7. Add 2 cups of fresh or frozen cheese tortellini to the pot.
8. Cook according to the package instructions, typically about 7-9 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Adding Greens (Optional)

9. If using spinach or kale, stir in 1 cup during the last 2 minutes of cooking. Cook until the greens are wilted and tender.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the soup hot with a side of crusty bread or crackers.
• Sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
• Pair with a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Freezing Instructions

• For best results, freeze the soup without the tortellini to prevent it from becoming mushy.
• Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• When ready to serve, reheat the soup and cook fresh tortellini separately to add in.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth and substitute shredded chicken with chickpeas or white beans.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tortellini or substitute with gluten-free noodles.
• Extra veggies: Add diced zucchini, peas, or corn for more variety.
• Spicy kick: Stir in red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, frozen tortellini works perfectly. Simply adjust the cooking time based on the package instructions.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the soup base ahead of time and cook the tortellini just before serving to keep it fresh and firm.

What’s the best way to shred chicken?
Shred cooked chicken easily by using two forks or a hand mixer for a quick method.

This Hearty Tortellini Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food, blending classic flavors with a cheesy twist. It’s easy to prepare, perfect for meal prepping, and endlessly adaptable to suit your tastes. Try it today, and let us know how you enjoy this soul-soothing dish!

Print