Chicken Spinach Tortellini Soup: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Chicken Spinach Tortellini Soup: just the name conjures up images of cozy nights, comforting warmth, and a bowl brimming with deliciousness, doesn’t it? Imagine tender, cheese-filled tortellini swimming in a savory chicken broth, studded with vibrant spinach and succulent pieces of chicken. This isn’t just soup; it’s a hug in a bowl, and I’m so excited to share my version with you!

While the exact origins of tortellini soup are debated, its Italian roots are undeniable. Tortellini, those delightful little pasta rings, are said to have originated in the Emilia region of Italy, and their addition to a hearty broth is a testament to the Italian tradition of simple, flavorful cooking. Adding chicken and spinach elevates this classic into a complete and nourishing meal.

But what makes Chicken Spinach Tortellini Soup so universally loved? It’s the perfect combination of textures and tastes. The soft, yielding tortellini, the slightly chewy chicken, and the tender spinach create a symphony in your mouth. The broth, infused with chicken and herbs, provides a comforting and savory base that ties everything together. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient! This recipe is quick enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve to guests. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and I know you’ll absolutely adore it!

Ingredients:

• For the Soup:
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
• 9 ounces refrigerated cheese tortellini
• 5 ounces fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Preparing the Chicken and Aromatics

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Make sure the pot is large enough to hold all the soup ingredients comfortably.
2. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the pot and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Don’t overcrowd the pot; if necessary, cook the chicken in batches to ensure proper browning. Overcrowding will steam the chicken instead of browning it.
3. Remove the cooked chicken from the pot and set aside. This prevents the chicken from becoming overcooked and dry while the rest of the soup simmers.
4. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. The onions should become translucent and slightly golden.
5. Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. Stir constantly during this step.

Building the Soup Base

1. Pour the chicken broth into the pot with the onions and garlic. Scrape the bottom of the pot to loosen any browned bits (fond), which will add flavor to the soup.
2. Add the undrained diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
3. Bring the soup to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This step is crucial for developing a rich and flavorful broth.

Adding the Tortellini and Spinach

1. Add the cooked chicken back to the pot. Stir to combine.
2. Add the cheese tortellini to the soup. Cook according to the package directions, usually about 3-5 minutes, or until the tortellini are tender and float to the surface. Be careful not to overcook the tortellini, as they can become mushy.
3. Stir in the fresh spinach. Cook until the spinach is wilted, about 1-2 minutes. The spinach will quickly wilt from the heat of the soup.

Finishing Touches and Serving

1. If desired, stir in the heavy cream for extra richness. This step is optional, but it adds a lovely creamy texture to the soup.
2. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning to your liking.
3. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips and Variations

• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soup for a little heat.
• Add Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the soup, such as carrots, celery, or zucchini. Add them along with the onions and garlic.
• Use Different Protein: Instead of chicken, you can use Italian sausage or ground turkey. Brown the sausage or turkey in the pot before adding the onions and garlic.
• Use Frozen Spinach: If you don’t have fresh spinach, you can use frozen spinach. Thaw and squeeze out the excess water before adding it to the soup.
• Make it Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add more vegetables to make it a heartier vegetarian soup.
• Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Freezing: This soup can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Note that the tortellini may become slightly softer after freezing and thawing.
• Broth Options: While chicken broth is recommended, vegetable broth can be substituted for a vegetarian option or to lighten the flavor. You can also use a combination of chicken and vegetable broth.
• Tortellini Types: Feel free to experiment with different types of tortellini. Cheese tortellini is a classic choice, but you can also use meat-filled tortellini or spinach and ricotta tortellini.
• Herb Variations: While Italian seasoning is a convenient option, you can also use fresh herbs such as basil, oregano, and thyme. Add the fresh herbs towards the end of the cooking process to preserve their flavor.
• Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end can brighten up the flavors of the soup. Start with a small amount and add more to taste.
• Cream Cheese: For an even creamier soup, stir in a tablespoon or two of cream cheese along with the heavy cream. Make sure the cream cheese is softened before adding it to the soup to prevent clumping.
• Parmesan Rind: Adding a Parmesan rind to the soup while it simmers can add a depth of flavor. Remove the rind before serving.

Detailed Ingredient Notes

• Chicken: I prefer using chicken breasts for this recipe because they are lean and cook quickly. However, you can also use chicken thighs, which will result in a richer flavor. If using chicken thighs, you may need to cook them for a longer period of time. Make sure to cut the chicken into uniform bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
• Onion: Yellow onion is my go-to for this soup, but you can also use white onion or even shallots. The onion adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the soup.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is always best, but you can also use jarred minced garlic if you’re short on time. Garlic adds a pungent and aromatic flavor to the soup.
• Chicken Broth: I recommend using low-sodium chicken broth so you can control the amount of salt in the soup. You can also use homemade chicken broth for an even richer flavor.
• Diced Tomatoes: I prefer using canned diced tomatoes because they are convenient and readily available. However, you can also use fresh diced tomatoes if you have them on hand. If using fresh tomatoes, you may want to peel and seed them first.
• Italian Seasoning: Italian seasoning is a blend of dried herbs that typically includes oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary, and marjoram. You can find it in most grocery stores. If you don’t have Italian seasoning, you can make your own blend by combining equal parts of each of the individual herbs.
• Tortellini: Refrigerated cheese tortellini is the most common type of tortellini used in this soup. However, you can also use frozen tortellini or dried tortellini. If using frozen tortellini, you may need to cook it for a longer period of time. If using dried tortellini, be sure to cook it according to the package directions.
• Spinach: Fresh spinach is best for this recipe, but you can also use frozen spinach. If using frozen spinach, be sure to thaw it and squeeze out the excess water before adding it to the soup.
• Heavy Cream: Heavy cream adds richness and creaminess to the soup. However, you can also use half-and-half or milk if you prefer a lighter soup.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan cheese is a classic topping for this soup. It adds a salty and savory flavor. You can also use other types of cheese, such as Romano or Asiago.

Troubleshooting

• Soup is too thick: Add more chicken broth to thin it out.
• Soup is too thin: Simmer the soup uncovered for a longer period of time to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
• Soup is bland: Add more salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, or Parmesan cheese. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten up the flavors.
• Tortellini are mushy: Be careful not to overcook the

Conclusion:

This Chicken Spinach Tortellini Soup isn’t just another soup recipe; it’s a hug in a bowl, a quick weeknight dinner solution, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser all rolled into one. The creamy broth, tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and cheesy tortellini create a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out, perfect for chilly evenings or when you just need a little comfort food. But what truly makes this soup a must-try is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different types of tortellini – cheese, meat, or even vegetable-filled options will work beautifully. If you’re looking to add a little extra protein, consider incorporating some shredded rotisserie chicken or even some cooked Italian sausage. For a vegetarian twist, simply omit the chicken and add a can of drained and rinsed cannellini beans for added heartiness. Serving suggestions are endless! A crusty loaf of bread, perfect for dipping into the creamy broth, is always a welcome addition. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a swirl of pesto on top elevate the soup to restaurant-quality status. For a lighter meal, pair it with a simple side salad. And if you’re feeling fancy, a drizzle of truffle oil adds a touch of luxury. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this recipe your own. Add your favorite vegetables, adjust the seasonings to your liking, and experiment with different toppings. The possibilities are truly endless! I know you’re going to love this Chicken Spinach Tortellini Soup as much as I do. It’s a recipe that I find myself making again and again, and it’s always a hit with my family and friends. It’s quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying – what more could you ask for? So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece. I promise you won’t be disappointed. This soup is not only delicious but also incredibly rewarding to make. The aroma that fills your kitchen as it simmers is simply divine. I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you do, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you make any modifications? What were your favorite toppings? What did your family think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below! Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me to continue creating recipes that you’ll love. Don’t forget to rate the recipe and share it with your friends and family. Let’s spread the love and warmth of this amazing Chicken Spinach Tortellini Soup far and wide! Happy cooking! I can’t wait to hear all about your soup-making adventures. This is one recipe that is sure to become a staple in your household, just like it has in mine. Enjoy!

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