Cozy Tortellini Soup with Chicken Broth is the perfect bowl of comfort on a chilly day. It’s filled with tender cheese-filled tortellini that gently float in a warm, flavorful chicken broth. Added herbs and a few simple veggies make it feel homemade and just like a gentle hug in soup form.
I love making this soup when I want something quick but still filling and tasty. The chicken broth gives it a light but rich base that lets the tortellini shine. Sometimes I add a sprinkle of Parmesan on top or a dash of black pepper—small touches that make all the difference. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a little treat but is super easy to pull together.
My favorite way to enjoy this soup is with some crusty bread on the side for dipping. It’s great for lunch or a light dinner, and I find myself going back for seconds because it’s so soothing and easy to love. Whenever I make it, the simple flavors and warm broth remind me of home and chilly evenings spent curled up with a good book.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Broth: This is the base of your soup, giving it a warm and rich flavor. If you prefer, use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option. Homemade broth adds extra depth but store-bought works great too.
Cheese Tortellini: Fresh or frozen tortellini both cook quickly and add a lovely chewy texture with cheesy goodness inside. If you can’t find tortellini, ravioli or small pasta shapes like mini tortellini or even stuffed shells work well.
Chicken Breast: Cooked chicken adds protein and heartiness. Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or leftover cooked chicken. For plant-based options, try chickpeas or tofu cubes instead.
Carrots, Celery & Onion: These veggies form a classic flavor base giving the soup sweetness and texture. If you don’t have celery, just use more onion or skip it. Fresh is best but frozen diced veggies save time.
Italian Seasoning & Garlic: Herbs make the broth more flavorful without overwhelming it. Fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder works in a pinch. Feel free to add a bay leaf while simmering for more aroma.
How Do I Make the Soup So Flavorful Without Long Cooking?
Start by sautéing the onions, garlic, and vegetables in olive oil. This step wakes up their flavors and creates a delicious base. Here’s how:
- Heat olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
- Add chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for a few more minutes until veggies start to soften.
This quick sauté before adding broth helps layers of flavor build without needing hours of cooking. Then simmering with herbs lets everything blend nicely. Adding tortellini and chicken near the end keeps them tender and fresh tasting.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large soup pot – perfect for cooking all ingredients together without spilling.
- Wooden spoon – great for stirring vegetables and tortellini gently.
- Sharp knife – helps you chop onions, carrots, and celery quickly and safely.
- Cutting board – keeps your workspace clean and organized while prepping veggies.
- Ladle – makes serving the soup easy and neat.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for cooked sausage slices for a richer, spicier taste.
- Add fresh spinach or kale near the end for a boost of color and nutrients.
- Use sun-dried tomatoes to bring a tangy sweetness that pairs well with the herbs.
- Stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of pesto for extra richness and flavor.
How to Make Cozy Tortellini Soup with Chicken Broth?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 1 celery stalk, diced (optional for extra flavor)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 to 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or mix of basil, oregano, and thyme)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prepping the vegetables and chicken, plus about 20 minutes for cooking and simmering. Overall, you can have a warm, cozy bowl of tortellini soup ready in around 30 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Stir in the minced garlic, sliced carrots, and diced celery if using. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
2. Add Broth and Simmer:
Pour the chicken broth into the pot and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat to medium-low, and add the dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the soup simmer gently for 10-12 minutes until the carrots are tender.
3. Cook Tortellini and Add Chicken:
Stir in the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions (usually about 3-5 minutes) until tender. Add the shredded or chopped cooked chicken and heat through for 2-3 minutes. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
4. Serve and Garnish:
Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley. Add grated Parmesan on top if you’d like some extra cheesy flavor. Enjoy the soup hot, with crusty bread or a fresh side salad for a comforting meal.
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini for This Soup?
Yes! Frozen tortellini works perfectly. Just add it to the simmering broth and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes. No need to thaw beforehand.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the soup completely, then cool and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm gently on the stove to keep the tortellini tender and avoid overcooking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up.
Can I Substitute the Chicken with Something Else?
Sure! For a vegetarian option, omit the chicken and add extra vegetables or beans. You can also swap chicken for cooked sausage or tofu cubes for a different protein twist.
