Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup

Name: Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup tortellini (fresh or frozen); 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Rustic Comfort Kitchen

I absolutely love making Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup when I'm looking for a comforting and hearty meal. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful broth, and pillowy tortellini creates the perfect balance of taste and texture. It's a dish that warms you from the inside out, especially on chilly days. The best part? It comes together in just under an hour, making it ideal for weeknight dinners. Trust me, you'll want to keep this recipe on hand for when you crave something satisfying and delicious!

Created by

Sandra

Last updated on 2026-01-20T12:25:27.862Z

When I first tried my hand at this Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup, I was amazed by how quickly it all came together. Using rotisserie chicken not only saves time but also infuses the soup with rich flavor. I recommend adding a splash of lemon juice at the end to brighten the dish, which complements the creamy base beautifully. It’s become a staple in our home!

My family can never get enough of this soup, especially when served with crusty bread. I love experimenting with different herbs, like thyme or basil, to change the flavor profile. Always garnish with fresh parsley for an added touch. It’s a dish that’s not only easy to prepare but also impresses guests every time!

        Why You'll Love This Soup
        Creamy texture with a delightful balance of flavors
Hearty and satisfying, perfect for any meal
Quick to prepare, making it a great weeknight dinner option

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The quality of the chicken plays a crucial role in the flavor of the soup. I recommend using rotisserie chicken for its rich flavor and ease of preparation, but if you're starting with raw chicken, consider poaching it in advance for tenderness. Make sure to reserve the poaching liquid, as it can be used to enhance the broth, adding a layer of depth to the flavor profile of your soup.

Tortellini is the star ingredient in this soup, bringing both heartiness and a delightful texture. Fresh tortellini can often be found in the refrigerated section of your store and will typically cook faster than frozen. However, if frozen is what you have on hand, be sure to increase the broth quantity slightly to account for any ice crystals melting during cooking, ensuring a creamy and satisfying consistency.

Cooking Techniques for Success

Sautéing the onions and garlic in olive oil not only adds flavor but also sets the foundation for the entire soup. Cook them until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant, which usually takes around 5 minutes over medium heat. Beware not to let the garlic brown, as it can turn bitter, which would detract from the harmonious flavors you're aiming for in this dish.

When adding the heavy cream, be sure to lower the heat to prevent boiling. A gentle simmer is key to ensure the cream integrates smoothly, resulting in a velvety texture. If you notice the soup becoming too thick as it simmers, adding a splash of additional broth or water can help you achieve the desired consistency without sacrificing creaminess.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a truly comforting soup.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup tortellini (fresh or frozen)
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Have everything ready? Let's move on to the cooking steps!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delicious bowl of creamy soup!

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Add Chicken and Broth

Stir in the shredded chicken and chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer.

Cook the Tortellini

Add the tortellini to the pot and cook according to package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes.

Finish with Cream

Once the tortellini is cooked, reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Now you have a creamy, delicious soup ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a splash of lemon juice just before serving. Additionally, using fresh tortellini will enhance the overall taste and texture of the soup.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch and store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just remember to add the tortellini when you reheat it, as it tends to become overly soft and mushy if left in the soup for extended periods.

For longer storage, consider freezing the soup without the tortellini. It will keep for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then heat gently on the stove. Add fresh or frozen tortellini during reheating to ensure they remain al dente and add a delightful bite to your soup.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

To elevate your soup experience, consider serving it with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top just before serving adds an extra layer of flavor and richness that complements the creamy broth beautifully. For an added kick, a dash of red pepper flakes can provide a subtle heat that balances the creaminess.

If you're looking to switch things up, try substituting the tortellini with other pasta shapes, such as small shells or orzo, for a different texture. You can also experiment with adding fresh vegetables like spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking to boost the nutritional value without sacrificing flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?

Yes, just cook the frozen chicken first in the broth before adding other ingredients.

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best to add the tortellini just before serving to prevent it from becoming mushy.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative for a lighter version.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.