Indulge in a warm, soothing bowl of chicken tortellini soup that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines tender chicken, delightful tortellini, and a medley of vegetables simmered in a savory broth. It’s not just a meal; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl that will nourish both body and soul. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a comforting dish on a chilly day, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup carrots, diced
– 1 cup celery, diced
– 1 cup onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) of chicken tortellini soup contains approximately:
– Calories: 320
– Protein: 25g
– Carbohydrates: 35g
– Fat: 10g
– Fiber: 3g
This nutritional information is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Begin by heating a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Add the shredded chicken and Italian seasoning, stirring well.
6. Introduce the tortellini to the pot and cook according to package instructions, usually about 5-7 minutes.
7. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Once the tortellini is cooked, remove from heat.
9. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
10. Enjoy your delicious bowl of chicken tortellini soup!
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily substitute the chicken with cooked turkey or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian option. Use spinach or kale instead of celery for added nutrition. Gluten-free tortellini is also an option for those with dietary restrictions.
Serving and Pairings
This chicken tortellini soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a simple garlic bread or breadsticks for dipping.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months; just ensure to leave out the tortellini, which can be added fresh when reheating. Reheat on the stove over low heat until warmed through.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overcook the tortellini; it should be al dente.
- Ensure to season your broth adequately to avoid bland soup.
- Avoid boiling the soup too vigorously after adding the tortellini.
- Don’t skip on the fresh herbs; they enhance flavor significantly.
- Use leftovers wisely; they can alter the texture of the soup.
Helpful Tips
- For extra flavor, sauté the garlic with a bit of olive oil before adding other ingredients.
- Adding a squeeze of lemon juice before serving can brighten the flavors.
- Feel free to experiment with different vegetables based on your preference.
- For a creamier soup, stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just ensure it’s fully cooked before shredding and adding to the soup.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for 3 months. Just remember to separate the tortellini if freezing.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Cook the vegetables and broth on low for 4-6 hours, then add cooked chicken and tortellini in the last 30 minutes.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Consider adding a splash of white wine or a tablespoon of soy sauce for depth. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can also enhance the flavor.
Is this soup healthy?
Yes, it’s a balanced meal with protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates. Using low-sodium broth and adding more veggies can make it even healthier.
Conclusion
This chicken tortellini soup recipe is not only easy to prepare but also delivers a comforting and delicious dish that’s perfect for any day. With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, you can enjoy a hearty meal that warms the heart and soul. Don’t hesitate to customize it to your taste; it’s a versatile recipe that can please everyone at the dinner table.
Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken shredded
- 1 package 9 oz cheese tortellini
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup carrots diced
- 1 cup celery diced
- 1 cup onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by heating a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Add the shredded chicken and Italian seasoning, stirring well.
- Introduce the tortellini to the pot and cook according to package instructions, usually about 5-7 minutes.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once the tortellini is cooked, remove from heat.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
- Enjoy your delicious bowl of chicken tortellini soup!
