Chicken Soup with Tortellini

Chicken Soup with Tortellini is the perfect comfort food for chilly days. This quick and easy soup features tender shredded chicken, soft tortellini, and sweet peas, all swimming in a flavorful, warm broth. It’s a hearty, satisfying meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this soup will soon become a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 package tortellini
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
4. Add the shredded chicken, frozen peas, and tortellini to the pot.
5. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the tortellini is tender and heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4

Variations

• Add Vegetables: You can add extra vegetables like carrots, celery, or spinach to the soup for more nutrition and flavor.
• Different Pasta: If you prefer, you can use other types of pasta, such as elbow macaroni or small shells, in place of the tortellini.
• Spicy Version: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños.
• Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half for a creamy twist on this classic soup.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: While this soup can be frozen, the tortellini may become a bit soft once thawed. It’s best to freeze just the broth and chicken mixture and add fresh tortellini when reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat the soup in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can add a little extra broth or water if the soup has thickened too much.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
   Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. Just shred it and add it to the soup for extra flavor and convenience.
2. Can I use homemade chicken broth?
   Absolutely! Homemade chicken broth will add even more flavor to the soup.
3. Can I use fresh tortellini instead of frozen?
   Yes, you can use fresh tortellini, but adjust the cooking time as fresh pasta usually cooks a bit faster than frozen.
4. What kind of tortellini should I use?
   You can use any type of tortellini you prefer, such as cheese-filled, meat-filled, or vegetable tortellini, depending on your taste.
5. Can I make this soup in advance?
   Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.
6. Can I add more protein to this soup?
   Yes, you can add more chicken, or even cooked turkey, sausage, or bacon, for an extra protein boost.
7. Is this soup gluten-free?
   This soup is not gluten-free as it contains tortellini, which is typically made with wheat. You can substitute gluten-free tortellini or use a different type of gluten-free pasta.
8. How can I make this soup vegetarian?
   To make the soup vegetarian, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and omit the chicken. You can add other protein sources like beans or tofu.
9. Can I use canned peas instead of frozen?
   Yes, you can use canned peas, but be sure to drain and rinse them before adding them to the soup.
10. Can I freeze this soup?
    While the soup can be frozen, the tortellini may lose some texture upon thawing. It’s best to freeze the soup without the tortellini and add fresh tortellini when reheating.

Conclusion

Chicken Soup with Tortellini is a heartwarming, easy-to-make dish that combines comforting ingredients in one pot. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal to enjoy with loved ones, this soup offers a perfect balance of flavor and nutrition. With a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your cooking rotation. Add in your favorite vegetables or switch up the pasta to make it your own!

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