Taste the symphony of Italian warmth with our Chicken Tortellini Soup recipe. A heartening blend of succulent chicken, cheesy tortellini, and vibrant vegetables, each spoonful promises a delightful journey through rustic, wholesome flavors.

Picture this: you savoring the robust taste in every bite as comforting notes of homemade chicken broth and tender pasta dance harmoniously on your palate. The verdant burst of spinach, and the aromatic whispers of garlic and onion, complete the exquisite profile of this culinary marvel.
This soup recipe is ideal for chilly nights and proves that true comfort resides in simplicity. Unleash the power of your kitchen with this classic Italian offering, a true testament to soul-soothing, nutritious cuisine.
Let’s dive into a world of epicurean delight – one that marries tradition with health and flavor with warmth. Your love for Italian cuisine is about to deepen, one bowl of Chicken Tortellini Soup at a time.
What Is Chicken Tortellini Soup?
Chicken Tortellini Soup is a hearty Italian recipe featuring tender chicken, cheese-filled tortellini, and a medley of vegetables, and all simmered in a savory broth. It’s comfort food elevated by bright herbs like parsley and basil.
The soup is a healthful, one-pot wonder that warms from the inside out. Its rich, savory notes blend with the pasta’s cheesy goodness, creating a satisfyingly full-bodied flavor. This soup is perfect for any season and marries rustic Italian tradition with soulful home cooking. Dive in and let your taste buds revel in the symphony.
History Of Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe
Chicken Tortellini Soup traces its roots to Italy. It is home to tortellini, small ring-shaped pasta typically filled with a blend of meat or cheese. Its history is steeped in Italian folklore, with a delightful legend attributing its shape to the naval of Venus, the Roman goddess of love.
When paired with hearty chicken soup, this delicacy morphed into an international comfort food. Traditionally, Italians served tortellini in capon broth during Christmas, but the chicken variant became popular with global culinary fusions. Today, Chicken Tortellini Soup combines traditional Italian heritage with modern convenience, resulting in a heartwarming, nourishing dish cherished worldwide.
Interesting Facts About Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe
- Italian Legend: The tortellini’s unique ring shape is steeped in Italian lore. Legend claims it was inspired by the naval of Venus, the Roman goddess of love.
- Holiday Tradition: In Italy, tortellini in broth, often capon, is a traditional Christmas Eve dish. The inclusion of chicken offers a modern twist on this age-old recipe.
- Variety: The recipe is incredibly adaptable. Vegetables, types of broth, and spices can be altered to match individual preferences or dietary restrictions, ensuring every bowl is unique.
- Balanced Meal: This soup provides a well-rounded meal, offering a balance of protein (from the chicken), carbohydrates (from the pasta), and vitamins (from the vegetables).
- International Appeal: Though originating in Italy, Chicken Tortellini Soup is now enjoyed globally, showcasing the universal love for comforting, hearty dishes.
- Convenience: This one-pot meal is a favorite for busy home cooks seeking a quick yet nutritious solution for weeknight dinners.
- Shelf Life: Tortellini was created to use leftovers and make food last longer, adding to the historical and practical appeal of the soup.
What Makes Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe Special?
Chicken Tortellini Soup brings together two beloved elements of the culinary world: the heartiness of chicken soup and the comforting, rich flavor of cheese-filled tortellini. This marriage of rustic comfort food and refined Italian pasta creates a unique and delightful gastronomic experience.
It’s special due to its versatility – the base recipe can be easily modified with different vegetables, spices, and even types of tortellini to cater to various palates. Despite these potential variations, the soup consistently delivers a balanced, nutritious meal.
Moreover, its ability to be a satisfying one-pot meal makes it a practical choice for home cooks seeking convenience without compromising on taste or nutrition.

Ingredients List
Ingredients | Quantity |
Boiling Chicken Broth | 7 3/4 cups |
Stewed Tomatoes, cut up | 1 (14.5 ounce) can |
Frozen Chopped Spinach, thawed | 1 (10 ounce) package |
Grated Parmesan Cheese | 1/4 cup |
Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
Pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
Refrigerated Cheese Tortellini | 1 (9 ounce) package |
Cooked Chicken, cubed | 2 1/2 cups |
Ingredient Tips
- Chicken: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for lean protein. Bone-in pieces or rotisserie chicken can be used if you prefer a more robust flavor.
- Tortellini: Fresh tortellini is ideal for its tender, quick-cooking qualities. However, frozen or dried works well; adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Vegetables: Use fresh, crisp vegetables for optimal flavor. Consider adding your favorites, like bell peppers or zucchini, for a personalized touch.
- Broth: Homemade chicken broth delivers the best flavor and control over the salt content. But, in a pinch, good quality store-bought broth is a practical alternative.
- Spices: Fresh herbs bring bright, aromatic notes. Don’t shy away from experimenting with different herb combinations.
- Parmesan Rind: Toss a piece of Parmesan rind while the soup simmers. It will impart a delightful, umami-rich depth to the soup.
- Oil: A high-quality olive oil will enhance the overall flavor of the soup. It’s worth investing in a good one for sautéing the vegetables and chicken.
- Seasoning: Adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. Remember, you can always add more later but can’t remove it once added.
Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients?
- Keto: Replace tortellini with low-carb substitutes like zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. You may add more high-fat ingredients like cream or cheese to enhance the soup’s richness.
- Paleo: Use grain-free pasta alternatives made from almond flour or spiralized vegetables. Ensure your chicken broth is free from additives and sugars, and skip the dairy-based tortellini filling.
- Gluten-Free: Switch to gluten-free tortellini in most health food stores or supermarkets. Ensure your broth is gluten-free as well.
- Whole30: Substitute tortellini with vegetable spirals, like zucchini noodles. Again, verify your chicken broth is Whole30 compliant.
- Vegetarian: Replace chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers, and use cheese-filled tortellini and vegetable broth.
- Vegan: Like the vegetarian version, use vegan tortellini and add protein-rich ingredients like lentils or chickpeas.

Recipe Directions
- To prepare this delectable spinach tortellini soup, start by boiling 7 3/4 cups of chicken broth.
- Next, add a can of cut-up stewed tomatoes (14.5 oz) for a burst of tangy flavor. Incorporate a thawed package of frozen chopped spinach (10 oz) to infuse the soup with essential nutrients.
- Enhance the taste with 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese, 1/2 tsp of salt, and 1/4 tsp of pepper.
- Stir in a package of refrigerated cheese tortellini (9 oz) for a delightful pasta element.
- For added protein, include 2 1/2 cups of cubed cooked chicken.
- Let the soup simmer gently until the tortellini is tender, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly.
- Serve piping hot and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese for an extra indulgence.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings
Variations
- Italian Twist: Introduce Italian sausage or pancetta for a meatier flavor.
- Seafood Alternative: Substitute chicken with shrimp for a seafood variant.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to spice up your soup.
Add-ons
- Greens: Stir in kale or Swiss chard for an extra nutrient boost.
- Beans: Add cannellini beans for added texture and protein.
- Grains: Include cooked barley or quinoa for a hearty twist.
Toppings
- Cheese: A sprinkle of extra Parmesan or mozzarella enhances the soup’s creaminess.
- Herbs: Fresh basil, parsley, or chives provide a bright, fresh contrast.
- Crunch: Croutons or a slice of crusty bread are perfect soup companions for added crunch.
Scaling The Recipe
To Scale Up
- If you’re cooking for a larger group, double or triple the quantities. For instance, if the original recipe serves 4 and you want to feed 8, double the amount of each ingredient. Be aware that cooking times may increase slightly, especially when it takes to boil the broth. You’ll also need to ensure your pot is large enough to accommodate the larger volume.
To Scale Down
- If you’re cooking for fewer people, halve (or reduce as necessary) the quantities of each ingredient. If the recipe serves 4 and you’re cooking for 2, use half the amount of each ingredient. The cooking time should be about the same, but always check to make sure the tortellini is cooked through.
What Is Used For Garnishing?
- Cheese: A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a small dollop of ricotta can add a creamy, rich finish to the soup.
- Fresh Herbs: Chopped fresh herbs such as basil, parsley, or chives add not only a pop of color but also a fresh, aromatic note that complements the hearty soup.
- Cracked Pepper: A bit of freshly cracked black pepper on top can give a slight heat and enhance the soup’s overall flavor.
- Croutons: Homemade or store-bought croutons can add a delightful crunch, contrasting the soup’s soft texture.
- Drizzle of Olive Oil: A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil just before serving can enhance the soup’s richness and add a glossy finish.

Can I Make The Soup In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?
Slow Cooker
- Add all ingredients except the tortellini into the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the tortellini during the last 15-30 minutes of cooking to prevent overcooking. This method allows the flavors to develop longer, resulting in an intensely flavorful soup.
Instant Pot
- Using the sauté setting, cook the chicken (if not pre-cooked), add all remaining ingredients except the tortellini—Seal, and set to manual high pressure for 7 minutes. Quick-release the pressure, add the tortellini, then seal and set to manual high pressure for another 3 minutes. This method is a great way to get a slow-cooked taste in a fraction of the time.
Can I Use Store Broth, Or Should I Make My Own?
Store-Bought Broth
- It’s a convenient option, especially when you’re short on time. Opt for a high-quality, low-sodium variety, as this allows you to control the saltiness of your soup better. Some brands offer organic or free-range chicken broth, which can provide a richer flavor.
Homemade Broth
- If you have the time, homemade broth often yields the best flavor. You can control the ingredients, omitting preservatives or excessive salt found in some commercial broths. Plus, it’s a great way to use chicken bones and vegetable scraps.
Can I Use Different Types Of Meat/Fish/Pasta/Vegetables For The Soup?
- Meat: Replace chicken with other meats like beef or pork. You could also use Italian sausage for a different flavor profile. If you want to make it seafood-based, shrimp or fish like cod or halibut could work well.
- Fish: As mentioned, shrimp, cod, or halibut can be excellent choices for a seafood soup variant. Adjust cooking times as necessary to prevent overcooking.
- Pasta: If you don’t have tortellini on hand, you could use other types of pasta like farfalle (bow-tie pasta), penne, or even orzo. This will change the soup’s character, as the tortellini’s filled nature is part of the original dish’s charm.
- Vegetables: Feel free to experiment with different veggies. Root vegetables like carrots and parsnips hold up well in soup. Bell peppers, zucchini, or kale can add color and nutrition. In terms of flavor enhancers, consider leeks or fennel for a twist.

Success Tips – Tips And Tricks For The Recipe
Sure! Making soup is an art, and knowing a few handy tips and tricks can help elevate your soup-making game.
Prepping Tips
- Plan Ahead: If you’re making your broth, do it a day ahead. The same applies if you’re using slow-cooking meats. This saves time on the cooking day and allows flavors to develop better.
- Chop Uniformly: Make sure your vegetables are all cut into similar sizes. This ensures they cook evenly and at the same rate.
- Defrost Properly: If you’re using frozen ingredients, like spinach, thaw them fully before adding them to the soup. This prevents a drop in the soup’s temperature and helps maintain an even cooking time.
Cooking Tips
- Sautéing: If your soup recipe calls for onions, garlic, or other vegetables, sauté them until tender. This process helps bring out their flavors and adds depth to the soup.
- Don’t Boil, Simmer: Boiling can make the soup cloudy and may toughen the meat. Keep your soup at a low simmer to slowly meld the flavors together.
- Timing is Key: Add ingredients in stages, starting with the ones that take the longest to cook, like meat and root vegetables. More delicate ingredients, like pasta and greens, should be added near the end to prevent overcooking.
- Season Gradually: Don’t dump all your salt in at the beginning. Add a little at a time as your soup cooks, and adjust as needed right before serving.
- Cool Before Storing: If you’re making soup for later, let it cool completely before storing it in the fridge or freezer. This prevents condensation from forming and keeps the soup fresh.

Nutritional Values
Discover the power-packed goodness of soups! Our soup’s nutritional values provide a delicious and healthy way to nourish your body with essential nutrients. Embrace the warmth and flavor while fueling yourself with vital vitamins and minerals.
What Are The Total Calories In The Soup?
A one-cup serving of chicken tortellini soup might range between 150-300 calories. This count considers the calories from the chicken broth, cooked chicken, cheese tortellini, parmesan cheese, and the vegetables used.
Dietary Restrictions Of The Soup
- Gluten: Traditional tortellini pasta is made with wheat, which contains gluten. Those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease should choose gluten-free alternatives or use a different type of pasta.
- Dairy: Parmesan cheese is a key ingredient in this soup, which is unsuitable for those with lactose intolerance or following a dairy-free diet. You can omit the cheese or use a lactose-free or vegan cheese substitute.
- Meat: This soup is unsuitable for vegetarians or vegans due to the use of chicken and chicken broth. For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with additional vegetables or beans, and use a vegetable broth. For a vegan version, also replace or omit the cheese.
- Low Sodium: Store-bought broths and canned tomatoes often contain high sodium levels. Those on low-sodium diets should look for low-sodium or unsalted versions of these ingredients or make their own at home.
- Low Carb/Keto/Paleo: Tortellini pasta is high in carbs, making it unsuitable for low-carb, keto, or paleo diets. For a more compliant soup, replace the pasta with low-carb veggies or meat, ensuring all other ingredients align with your specific diet.
Health Benefits Of The Soup
- Hydration: Soups, being largely liquid, are a great way to stay hydrated, especially if you struggle to consume enough water during the day. The broth in the soup helps replenish fluids and electrolytes in the body.
- Nutrient-Rich: Soup can be packed with various vegetables, lean meats, and legumes, all of which contribute valuable nutrients. The cooking process can also make some nutrients easier to absorb.
- Weight Management: Soup can be a part of a weight management diet as it is generally low in calories and high in volume, which can help you feel full and satisfied without over-consuming calories.
- Digestive Health: Many soups include dietary fiber (especially those loaded with vegetables, legumes, or whole grains), which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut.
- Immune Support: Chicken soup, in particular, has been hailed as a home remedy for colds and flu. While it’s not a cure-all, the hot broth can help soothe a sore throat, and the steam may relieve congestion.
- Comforting: Soup can also have psychological benefits. It’s often associated with warmth, comfort, and home, making it physically nourishing and emotionally soothing.
Nutrition Table

How Can I Make The Soup Lower In Sodium?
- Use Homemade Broth: Store-bought broth often contains high amounts of sodium. By making your own, you can control the amount of salt added.
- Choose Low-Sodium or No-Salt-Added Products: Opt for low-sodium or no-salt-added versions if you can’t make your broth. The same goes for canned ingredients like tomatoes.
- Reduce Salt in the Recipe: Start using half the salt recommended and adjust to taste. Often, we can use less salt than recipes suggest without sacrificing flavor.
- Add Flavor with Herbs and Spices: Fresh or dried herbs, garlic, onions, and spices can boost the flavor of your soup without adding sodium.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables typically have less sodium than their canned counterparts.
- Rinse Canned Ingredients: If you must use canned vegetables, drain and rinse them under cold water to remove some of the sodium.
How Can I Make The Soup Lower In Sugar?
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables are often lower in sugar than canned versions, which can sometimes be packed in a sugary liquid. Similarly, choose fresh or frozen fruits over canned ones for fruit-based soups.
- Check Labels: If you’re using store-bought broth, canned tomatoes, or any other pre-packaged ingredients, read the nutrition labels. Some of these products can contain added sugars. Opt for no-sugar-added varieties whenever possible.
- Skip Sweet Toppings: Some soups might call for a drizzle of honey, a sprinkling of brown sugar, or a dollop of yogurt as a finishing touch. Keep these to a minimum, or find alternatives that don’t add extra sugar.
- Control Sweet Vegetables: Certain vegetables, like carrots, sweet potatoes, and onions, can add natural sugars to your soup. While these are generally healthier than added sugars, keep them in moderation if you’re watching your sugar intake.

How To Serve The Soup At Its Best?
- Bowl Selection: Choose deep bowls to keep the soup hot for longer and to make it easier to eat. Pre-warming the bowls in a low oven or with hot water can also help keep the soup hot.
- Garnish: A sprinkle of extra-grated Parmesan cheese, a pinch of freshly cracked black pepper, and a touch of fresh herbs like basil or parsley on top can elevate the soup’s presentation and add a fresh flavor contrast.
- Accompaniments: Serve the soup with a slice of crusty bread or a bread roll on the side, perfect for dipping. A side salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the warmth of the soup and make it a complete meal.
- Serving Size: Plan for about one cup per person as a starter. 1.5 to 2 cups per person is a good estimate if the soup is the main course.
- Temperature: Soup should be served hot but not scorching. Letting the soup cool for a couple of minutes before serving is a good idea to avoid burning your mouth.
- Reheating: If you’re serving leftovers, reheat only the amount you plan to serve to prevent the soup from becoming overcooked.
Perfect Side Dishes To Complement Soup Recipe
- Crusty Bread: A classic side, fresh crusty bread like a baguette or a sourdough loaf is perfect for soaking up the soup. For an extra touch of flavor, consider garlic bread or cheesy bread.
- Side Salad: A refreshing green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the warmth and richness of the soup. Try mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette for a light, refreshing side.
- Grilled Vegetables: If you’re serving the soup as a main course, a side of grilled or roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus can add color and variety to the meal.
- Cheese Board: For a more sophisticated side, try a small cheese board with various cheeses, some olives, and some grapes. The cheese pairs well with the soup, and the variety adds interest to the meal.
- Quinoa Salad: A quinoa salad with mixed vegetables and a light dressing can add protein and make the meal even more nutritious.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers or Tomatoes: These could add a filling, savory element that pairs well with the soup.

How Long Can We Store The Soup?
- Refrigerator: Once cooled, the soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Be sure to use airtight containers to prevent contamination or absorption of other flavors from the refrigerator.
- Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the soup. If you plan to freeze the soup, it may be best to do so before adding the tortellini and cheese. You can then add these when you reheat the soup. Properly stored, the soup can last for about 4-6 months in the freezer.
- Reheating: When ready to serve, if refrigerated, heat the soup over medium heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, until hot. If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can I Make The Soup In Advance?
Yes, you certainly can prepare Chicken Tortellini Soup in advance! This soup is a great make-ahead dish, and it can taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Cooking Pasta: If you’re making the soup in advance, consider cooking the tortellini separately and adding it when ready to serve. This way, the pasta won’t soak up too much broth and become overly soft.
- Adding Cheese: Similarly, add the Parmesan cheese just before serving to prevent it from becoming gritty during storage.
- Storing Properly: Once the soup is cooked, let it cool down before refrigerating or freezing it in airtight containers. This will help maintain the best flavor and prevent the growth of bacteria.
- Reheating: When ready to serve, reheat the soup over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add the cooked tortellini and Parmesan cheese, and let them heat through.
What Can We Do With Leftovers?
- Pasta Bake: Transfer the leftover soup to a baking dish, top with a bit more cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden for a comforting pasta bake. Remember to remove as much broth as possible to prevent a soggy bake.
- Stuffed Peppers: Drain the soup to separate the tortellini and chicken from the broth. Use this mixture to stuff bell peppers, top with cheese, and bake until tender.
- Chicken Salad: Drain the soup to get the chicken pieces. Combine with mayo, celery, and other ingredients to make a quick chicken salad.
- Stir-fry: Add the drained tortellini and chicken to a stir-fry. Mix with veggies and a sauce for a quick, flavorful meal.
- Frittata: Combine the drained tortellini and chicken with beaten eggs, pour into a skillet, and cook until set for a hearty frittata.
- Reheat: Reheat the soup and enjoy it again! The flavors often deepen, making the soup even more delicious the next day.

Special Tools/Equipment Needed
- Large Pot or Soup Pot
- Wooden Spoon or Ladle
- Can Opener (if using canned stewed tomatoes)
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Knife and Cutting Board (for cutting up tomatoes if using whole tomatoes)
- Grater (for grating Parmesan cheese, if not pre-grated)
- Stove or Cooktop
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Fresh Spinach Instead Of Frozen?
Absolutely! You can use fresh spinach instead of frozen. Chop the fresh spinach and add it to the soup during the last few minutes of cooking to prevent it from overcooking.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this soup vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omitting the chicken. Additionally, you can use cheese-filled or vegetable-filled tortellini.
How Can I Make The Soup Creamier?
For a creamier texture, you can add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half to the soup after it has finished cooking. Stir it gently to avoid curdling.
Can I Prepare This Soup In Advance For A Party?
Definitely! This soup is a great option for parties and gatherings. You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently on the stovetop before serving; it’ll be just as delicious!
What Can I Serve With Chicken Tortellini Soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread, garlic breadsticks, or a simple side salad. It’s also delightful with a sprinkle of extra-grated Parmesan cheese on top. Enjoy the soup with your favorite accompaniment for a satisfying meal.
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