There’s just something about a bowl of soup on a chilly day, isn’t there? It’s like a warm hug from the inside out! And trust me, this Cozy Tortellini Soup with Chicken Broth? It’s the ULTIMATE comfort food. Seriously, this is my go-to recipe when I need something quick, easy, and totally satisfying.
I’m talking about a super simple weeknight meal that even the kids will gobble up. It’s packed with cheesy tortellini, tender chicken, and all sorts of yummy veggies, simmered in a rich chicken broth. My favorite part is how fast it comes together – you can have a steaming bowl of this goodness ready in under 40 minutes!
I remember one night, the weather was absolutely frightful, and everyone was feeling a bit under the weather (pun intended!). I whipped up a batch of this Cozy Tortellini Soup with Chicken Broth, and it was like magic. Seriously, the whole family perked up. It’s just pure, unadulterated comfort in a bowl, and I can’t wait for you to try it!
Why You’ll Love This Cozy Tortellini Soup with Chicken Broth
- Seriously, who has time to spend hours in the kitchen during the week? This soup is ready in under 40 minutes – from fridge to table!
- The combination of cheesy tortellini, savory chicken broth, and Italian seasoning? It’s like a warm hug for your taste buds!
- Even the pickiest eaters in my house love this soup. The little pasta shapes are just so fun!
- Don’t be afraid to get creative! Throw in your favorite veggies, swap the chicken for sausage, or add a little spice. It’s YOUR soup, after all!
Quick and Easy Weeknight Meal
Comforting and Savory Flavors
A Family-Friendly Soup Recipe
Customizable with Your Favorite Ingredients
Ingredients for Cozy Tortellini Soup with Chicken Broth
Alright, let’s gather our goodies! Here’s what you’ll need to make this amazing Cozy Tortellini Soup with Chicken Broth. Don’t worry, it’s all pretty easy to find. And hey, if you’re missing something, don’t stress! We’ll talk about swaps later. But for now, here’s the dream team:
- 1 lb cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen, whatever you prefer!)
- 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium is great, but regular works too)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken is a lifesaver!)
- 1/2 cup chopped carrots (diced small so they cook evenly)
- 1/2 cup chopped celery (again, diced!)
- 1/4 cup chopped onion (yep, diced!)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (or use the jarred stuff, I won’t tell!)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy!)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish – makes it look fancy!)
How to Make Cozy Tortellini Soup with Chicken Broth: Step-by-Step Instructions
Okay, ready to make some magic? Don’t worry, it’s easier than you think! Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a pot of delicious Cozy Tortellini Soup with Chicken Broth bubbling away in no time. Trust me, you got this!
Sauté the Vegetables
First, grab your favorite big pot (I use my Dutch oven, but any large pot will do!). Drizzle in the olive oil and set it over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, toss in the carrots, celery, and onion. We’re going to cook these until they’re nice and softened – about 5 minutes or so. Stir them occasionally to keep them from sticking. You’ll know they’re ready when the onion is translucent and the carrots are slightly tender.
Add Garlic and Chicken Broth
Now, add the minced garlic and cook for just one minute more. Careful, garlic burns easily! You’ll want to keep stirring so it doesn’t get bitter. Next, pour in the chicken broth. Give it a good stir to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot – that’s where all the flavor lives! Bring the broth to a simmer – that means tiny bubbles are gently rising to the surface. We don’t want a rolling boil here, just a nice, gentle simmer.
Season the Soup
Time to add some flavor! Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Now, here’s a little secret: taste the broth! Seriously, grab a spoon and give it a try. Does it need more salt? A little more pepper? This is your chance to make it perfect. Don’t be afraid to experiment! I usually add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick, but that’s totally optional.
Cook the Tortellini
Alright, the moment we’ve been waiting for! Add the tortellini to the simmering broth. Now, cooking time will depend on whether you’re using fresh or frozen tortellini, so check the package directions. You’ll want to cook them until they’re tender but not mushy. Nobody likes mushy tortellini! Give them a stir every now and then to keep them from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Add Chicken and Garnish
Almost there! Stir in the shredded chicken and heat it through – just a minute or two. And finally, the fun part: garnishing! Sprinkle the fresh parsley over the top. It adds a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor. And there you have it – a steaming pot of Cozy Tortellini Soup with Chicken Broth, ready to be devoured! Enjoy!
Tips for the Best Cozy Tortellini Soup with Chicken Broth
Okay, so you’ve got the basics down, but wanna take your Cozy Tortellini Soup with Chicken Broth to the NEXT LEVEL? Here are a few of my top tips for a truly amazing bowl!
Don’t Overcook the Tortellini
Seriously, this is SO important! Nobody wants mushy tortellini. Cook ’em until they’re just tender – al dente, as the Italians say. They should have a little bit of a bite to them. Check the package directions, and start tasting a minute or two BEFORE the recommended time. Trust me on this one!
Adjust Seasoning to Your Liking
I said it before, and I’ll say it again: taste, taste, TASTE! Every broth is different, so you might need more or less salt and pepper. Don’t be afraid to add a little extra Italian seasoning, too. It’s YOUR soup, so make it perfect for YOU! A tiny pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice warmth, too!
Use High-Quality Chicken Broth
This is HUGE. The broth is the base of the whole soup, so you want it to be good! I usually opt for low-sodium chicken broth so I can control the salt myself. Homemade broth is amazing if you have it, but store-bought works just fine, too. Just try to find one that’s flavorful and not too watery. You’ll taste the difference, I promise!
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions for Your Cozy Tortellini Soup with Chicken Broth
Okay, so maybe you’re staring at the ingredient list and thinking, “Hmm, I don’t have *that*.” No worries! Here are a few easy swaps to keep your Cozy Tortellini Soup with Chicken Broth dreams alive!
Chicken Broth Substitutions
Out of chicken broth? No sweat! Vegetable broth works great, too – it’ll give you a slightly different flavor, but it’s still delicious. Or, you can even use chicken bouillon cubes or powder mixed with water. Just follow the package directions for the right ratio. Easy peasy!
Tortellini Variations
Cheese tortellini is my go-to, but feel free to experiment! Meat-filled tortellini adds a heartier flavor, and spinach tortellini gives you a boost of greens. Honestly, any kind of tortellini will work in this soup. Just use what you love!
Vegetable Additions
Want to sneak in some extra veggies? Go for it! Spinach and kale wilt right into the soup and add tons of nutrients. Diced zucchini is another great option – it cooks quickly and adds a nice, mild flavor. Get creative and use whatever you have on hand!
Serving Suggestions for Cozy Tortellini Soup with Chicken Broth
This Cozy Tortellini Soup with Chicken Broth is pretty amazing on its own, but if you wanna make it a *meal*, here are a couple of my favorite things to serve with it!
Bread and Salad
A hunk of crusty bread for dipping is ALWAYS a good idea, right? And a simple side salad adds a little freshness and crunch. Seriously, so good!
Parmesan Cheese
Oh, and don’t forget the Parmesan! A generous grating of fresh Parmesan cheese over the top? YES, please! It adds a salty, nutty flavor that just takes this soup to the next level.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cozy Tortellini Soup with Chicken Broth
Got questions? I’ve got answers! Here are a few of the most common things people ask me about this yummy Cozy Tortellini Soup with Chicken Broth. Hopefully, this clears things up!
Can I freeze Cozy Tortellini Soup with Chicken Broth?
Yep, you sure can! But here’s a little tip: the tortellini might get a *tiny* bit softer after freezing and thawing. Still totally edible, though! Just let it cool completely before popping it into freezer-safe containers. It will keep for 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it gently.
How long does Cozy Tortellini Soup with Chicken Broth last in the fridge?
This soup is usually devoured pretty quickly in my house, but if you have leftovers, they’ll keep in the fridge for 3-4 days. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner!
Can I make Cozy Tortellini Soup with Chicken Broth in a slow cooker?
You know, I haven’t tried it myself, but I bet you could! I’d sauté the veggies first, then toss everything (except the tortellini) into the slow cooker with the chicken broth. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, then add the tortellini during the last 30 minutes, or until they are tender. Let me know if you try it!
Is Cozy Tortellini Soup with Chicken Broth gluten-free?
Unfortunately, traditional tortellini isn’t gluten-free, but you *can* find gluten-free tortellini these days! Just look for it in the gluten-free section of your grocery store. Use that, and you’ve got yourself a delicious gluten-free soup!
Storage and Reheating Instructions for Cozy Tortellini Soup with Chicken Broth
Got leftovers of this amazing Cozy Tortellini Soup with Chicken Broth? Lucky you! Here’s how to keep it fresh and reheat it like a pro!
Storing Leftovers
Just let the soup cool down a bit, then pop it into an airtight container and stash it in the fridge. It’ll keep for about 3-4 days. Easy peasy!
Reheating Instructions
Wanna warm it up? You can gently reheat it on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Or, if you’re in a hurry, microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl for a few minutes, stirring every minute or so. Just watch it so it doesn’t explode!
Nutritional Information for Cozy Tortellini Soup with Chicken Broth
Okay, so everyone always asks about the nutritional info, right? Here’s the thing: this is a homemade recipe, and the exact nutrition facts can vary *a lot* depending on the brands you use, the size of your servings, and whether you sneak in an extra handful of tortellini (oops!). So, I can give you an estimate, but please remember that this is just a guide! I’m not a nutritionist, just a home cook sharing what works for me!
Disclaimer: Nutritional information is an estimate and varies based on ingredients and brands used. It is not provided as precise or professional nutritional advice.
Enjoy Your Cozy Tortellini Soup with Chicken Broth!
Alright, that’s it! Go make this soup! And hey, if you loved it, give it a rating and share it with your friends! Happy slurping!
Print
Disgustingly Easy Cozy Tortellini Soup: Ready in 40
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
Warm and comforting tortellini soup featuring chicken broth and savory flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 lb cheese tortellini
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup chopped carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add carrots, celery, and onion. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Add tortellini and cook according to package directions.
- Stir in shredded chicken and heat through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- You can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Add spinach or kale for extra nutrients.
- Adjust seasoning to your preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
