This chicken tortellini soup is a warm embrace on a chilly day. Bursting with flavors from tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and soft tortellini, it’s a bowl of comfort that will leave you satisfied. Easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners, this soup is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. Let’s dive into this delightful 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 bell peppers, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately:
– Calories: 320
– Protein: 25g
– Carbohydrates: 40g
– Fat: 10g
– Fiber: 3g
This nutritional information is based on a single serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and garlic, sauté until fragrant.
- Add diced carrots, celery, and bell peppers; cook for about 5 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Add the shredded chicken and dried oregano; mix well.
- Reduce heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once the tortellini is cooked, remove from heat.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker option. Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version, and feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables, such as spinach or zucchini, to customize the soup to your liking.
Serving and Pairings
This chicken tortellini soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side salad. Consider serving it with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months; just remember to leave out the tortellini if freezing, as it can become mushy.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the vegetables can make them mushy.
- Not seasoning adequately can lead to bland soup.
- Using low-quality broth affects the overall flavor.
- Adding tortellini too early can result in overcooked pasta.
- Neglecting to taste while cooking can lead to imbalances in flavor.
- Skipping the fresh herbs can diminish freshness.
- Not allowing the soup to simmer can prevent flavors from developing.
Helpful Tips
- Use homemade broth for richer flavor.
- Cook tortellini separately if preparing ahead.
- Experiment with different types of tortellini for variety.
- For a creamier soup, add a splash of heavy cream before serving.
- Fresh herbs elevate the dish; consider using basil or thyme.
FAQs
Can I use frozen tortellini in this soup?
Yes, you can use frozen tortellini. Just add them to the soup and cook according to the package instructions, usually a few minutes longer than fresh tortellini.
How can I make this soup gluten-free?
To make this soup gluten-free, use gluten-free tortellini and ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free as well.
Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the soup in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve. Just remember that the tortellini may absorb broth over time.
What can I add for extra flavor?
For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or zest, and don’t hesitate to incorporate some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Is this soup suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This soup stores well and can be portioned into containers for easy meal prep throughout the week.
Conclusion
This chicken tortellini soup recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will warm your heart and satisfy your hunger. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s a perfect dish to enjoy with family or friends. Give it a try, and you’ll find it becoming a staple in your home!
Chicken Tortellini Soup
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 bell peppers diced
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and garlic, sauté until fragrant.
- Add diced carrots, celery, and bell peppers; cook for about 5 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Add the shredded chicken and dried oregano; mix well.
- Reduce heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once the tortellini is cooked, remove from heat.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
