If you are looking for a comforting, hearty, and flavor-packed meal, this Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe is about to become your favorite go-to! Imagine tender shredded chicken, cheesy tortellini, and vibrant greens swimming in a luscious broth that’s been enriched with fire-roasted tomatoes and a hint of parmesan. It’s the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and just a touch of spice—ideal for cooler days or whenever you need a warm hug in a bowl. This soup is as simple as it is satisfying, and once you make it, you’ll want to share it with everyone you know.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up view inside a gray pot shows a chunky tomato sauce with visible pieces of soft, cooked diced red tomatoes and translucent onions mixed together. In the center, a light brown square bouillon cube is placed on top of the sauce. A wooden spoon with some sauce on it rests inside the pot on the right side. The pot is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun and magic behind this Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe. Each one is essential, contributing to the rich depth of flavor, inviting textures, and beautiful colors that make this soup truly special.

Olive oil: The base for sautéing, bringing gentle fruitiness and a smooth texture to your soup.
Sweet onion, diced: Adds natural sweetness and a mellow depth when cooked down.
Garlic cloves, minced: Brings a fragrant, savory punch that elevates every bite.
Kosher salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance and balance all flavors.
Tomato paste: Concentrated tomato flavor that adds richness and anchors the broth.
Fire roasted diced tomatoes: Provides a smoky depth and vibrant acidity for brightness.
Cooked, shredded chicken: Protein-packed and tender, making the soup hearty and filling.
Parmesan rind: A subtle umami bomb that enriches the broth’s complexity during simmering.
Chicken stock: The flavorful liquid base that ties everything together perfectly.
Heavy cream: Adds creaminess and softens the acidity for a luscious mouthfeel.
Chopped/shredded kale or spinach: Fresh greens that boost nutrition and bring lovely color.
Cheese tortellini: Pillowy pasta pockets stuffed with cheesy goodness, the true heart of this soup.
Parmesan cheese (for topping): A final sprinkle to add sharp, savory notes and a delightful texture.
Crushed red pepper (for topping): A little kick of heat to awaken your taste buds and brighten the flavors.

How to Make Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Start by heating olive oil in a large stockpot over medium-low heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and a generous pinch of kosher salt and pepper. Stir regularly as the onions soften and become translucent, which takes about 5 to 6 minutes. This step is crucial because it creates a flavor foundation that will make your soup irresistible.

Step 2: Build the Tomato Base

Next, stir in the tomato paste and allow it to cook for a few minutes; this develops a deeper color and a rich, concentrated flavor. Pour in the fire roasted diced tomatoes, shredded chicken, parmesan rind, and 4 cups of chicken stock. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer, covering the pot. Let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes so all those flavors have time to meld beautifully.

Step 3: Add Cream, Greens, and Tortellini

After simmering, stir in the heavy cream for that silky texture we all love. Then add the kale or spinach, letting it wilt perfectly into the broth. Finally, add the cheese tortellini and cook for about 5 minutes until the pasta is tender and cooked through. At this point, feel free to add the remaining cup of chicken stock if you prefer a thinner soup; remember, the tortellini will absorb some liquid as the soup sits.

Step 4: Final Taste and Seasoning

Now comes the moment to taste your soup. Adjust with more salt and pepper if needed, balancing the flavors to your perfect spot. This personal touch makes all the difference and truly customizes the Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe to your liking.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and top generously with parmesan cheese and crushed red pepper for a spicy, cheesy finish. Each spoonful will feel like a warm embrace, packed with flavor and comforting goodness.

How to Serve Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe

A close-up view of a gray pot filled with a creamy orange broth soup featuring several pale, folded tortellini floating on the surface. Dark greens of kale are scattered evenly throughout the soup, adding contrast to the light pasta and broth. Small pieces of light brown meat and bits of tomatoes appear mixed in, giving texture and variety to the soup. The broth looks smooth with a slight oily sheen and specks of black pepper dotting the surface. The pot sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Freshly grated parmesan and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes are the classic garnishes that enhance every bite with a bit of sharpness and heat. You can also add chopped fresh basil or parsley for a refreshing herbal note and a pop of color.

Side Dishes

Pair your soup with crusty bread or garlic knots to mop up every last bit of broth. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup beautifully, keeping the meal balanced and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out sourdough bread bowls. This not only looks impressive but also adds an edible vessel bursting with flavor. Another idea is to drizzle a bit of pesto swirl on top for added color and a fresh herby punch that pairs perfectly with the creamy soup.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store in an airtight container, but remember to keep the cooked tortellini separate if you plan to reheat, to avoid sogginess.

Freezing

Freezing is possible, but since tortellini can become mushy when frozen and reheated, it’s best to freeze the soup base without it. When ready to enjoy, thaw the soup and cook fresh tortellini to add in at serving time.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stove over low to medium heat. Add the tortellini just before serving so they stay tender but not overcooked. This method preserves the texture and flavor of the soup beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken for this soup?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds extra flavor, making the Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe even more convenient without sacrificing taste.

Is it possible to use a different pasta instead of tortellini?

Yes, but cheese tortellini is ideal for its creamy filling that complements the broth. If you prefer, try small stuffed pastas like ravioli or even mini meatballs for a different twist.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

You can! Substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock for a delicious vegetarian version of the Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe.

How spicy is the soup with crushed red pepper?

The crushed red pepper adds just a gentle warmth that brightens the soup without overpowering it. You can adjust the amount or omit it based on your spice preference.

What kind of greens work best in the soup?

Kale and spinach both work wonderfully. Kale holds up well to cooking and adds texture, while spinach wilts quickly and offers a softer bite. Choose based on your texture preference or what you have on hand.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe is one of those rare dishes that feels like a special occasion yet comes together with surprisingly simple ingredients and steps. Its creamy, hearty, and vibrant flavors are perfect for cozy evenings or anytime you crave a comforting meal. Give it a try—you’ll quickly see why it’s become such a beloved recipe around my kitchen and, hopefully, yours too!