Description
This Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with pillowy tortellini in a rich, creamy broth. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, it’s a warm hug in a bowl!
Ingredients
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Fresh or frozen cheese tortellini
- Carrots
- Celery
- Onion
- Garlic (optional)
- Frozen mixed vegetables (optional)
- Chicken broth
- Vegetable broth (for vegetarian option)
- Heavy cream
- Half-and-half (for lighter version)
- Plant-based cream (for lighter version)
- Italian seasoning
- Thyme
- Bay leaves
- Fresh parsley (optional)
- Fresh basil (optional)
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Start by dicing your chicken into bite-sized pieces. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
- In the same pot, add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed. Toss in diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Pour in 6 cups of chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Add the cooked chicken back into the pot, along with the Italian seasoning, thyme, and bay leaves. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Add the tortellini to the pot and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes for fresh tortellini. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Once the tortellini is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream, mixing well until combined. Let the soup warm through for another 2-3 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove the bay leaves and stir in fresh chopped parsley or basil if desired. Serve the soup hot, garnished with additional herbs or parmesan cheese if you like.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
Keywords: For added texture, you can throw in some chopped spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking. A squeeze of lemon juice right before serving can brighten the flavors. If making ahead, cook the tortellini separately to prevent them from becoming mushy. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.