What veggies work best in Chicken Tortellini Soup?

As a busy home cook, I reach for veggies that soften quickly. Spinach, kale, mushrooms, and zucchini brighten the soup without overpowering the broth. They add color, nutrition, and texture to Chicken Tortellini Soup. If you have picky eaters, I dice veggies small for easier swallowing. This trick helps my family enjoy every spoonful.

What is the secret ingredient that can elevate soup (without overpowering)?

My secret ingredient is a tiny whisper of lemon zest. It lifts the herbal notes without turning the soup sour or bitter. Add it at the end for a bright, fresh finish. Another trick is a parmesan rind simmered briefly to deepen flavor. I stash this hint for a consistently fresh finish.

How can I keep tortellini from getting mushy in Chicken Tortellini Soup?

I cook tortellini to al dente, about 6–8 minutes, not mushy. Stir in bowls at serving time if possible to preserve texture. If you must reheat, I remove tortellini and rewarm the broth first. Alternatively, I cook tortellini separately and add portions as guests serve. This keeps the pasta joyful and the soup cozy.

Can I freeze Chicken Tortellini Soup, and how does tortellini hold up?

Yes, you can freeze Chicken Tortellini Soup with a caveat. Tortellini tends to soften after freezing, so freeze it separate if possible. Freeze the broth and chicken together, then add tortellini fresh when reheating. Or freeze tortellini in a separate bag and add at the end. Label frozen portions for easy reheating later.

Chicken Tortellini Soup: 5 Quick, Cozy, Ultimate Win.

Name: Chicken Tortellini Soup: 5 Quick, Cozy, Ultimate Win.
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 medium carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, sliced; 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning; ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 6 cups chicken broth; 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed; 9 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Description

Chicken Tortellini Soup is a cozy weeknight staple featuring tender chicken, cheese-filled tortellini, and a flavorful herby broth that comes together in about 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
6 cups chicken broth
2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
9 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until softened.
Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute.
Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
Add shredded chicken and tortellini. Simmer for 6–8 minutes, or until tortellini is tender and cooked through.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

Optional vegetables: spinach, kale, mushrooms, or zucchini can be stirred in for extra color and nutrition.
To keep tortellini from becoming mushy, cook it just until al dente and avoid over-simmering; you can also cook tortellini separately and add to bowls at serving time.
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free tortellini. For a dairy-free option, use a plant-based cheese tortellini.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
Calories: Approximately 320 kcal
Sugar: ~5 g
Sodium: ~800 mg
Fat: ~7 g
Saturated Fat: ~2 g
Unsaturated Fat: ~5 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: ~40 g
Fiber: ~3 g
Protein: ~25 g
Cholesterol: ~60 mg

Keywords: Chicken Tortellini Soup, tortellini soup, chicken soup, Italian-inspired soup, weeknight dinner, cheese tortellini, hearty soup, comfort food