Homestyle Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this exquisite Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup. Featuring tender chunks of chicken, garden-fresh carrots and celery, and savory spices all enveloped in a rich, creamy broth, this one-pot wonder promises a comforting and deeply satisfying meal for any occasion. It’s a delightful fusion of wholesome ingredients and creamy goodness, designed to warm you from the inside out.

A white Dutch oven of creamy soup with carrots, celery and tortellini pasta.

Embrace the Warmth: Why This Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup is a Family Favorite

There’s nothing quite like a hearty bowl of homemade soup to bring comfort and joy, especially on a chilly evening. Our Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup stands out as a true culinary embrace, combining the best of what a comforting meal should be: rich flavors, delightful textures, and effortless preparation. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience designed to gather your loved ones around the table, providing warmth and satisfaction with every spoonful. Imagine succulent chicken pieces, crisp-tender carrots and celery, and pillowy, cheese-filled tortellini, all swimming in a velvety, herb-infused broth. It’s a dish that feels both gourmet and incredibly approachable, making it an instant classic for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings. Its one-pot nature also means minimal cleanup, a bonus for any home cook looking to maximize enjoyment and minimize fuss.

Two bowls of creamy chicken tortellini soup on white fluted plates.

Hearty, Flavorful, and Effortlessly Delicious

For years, my Tuscan Tortellini Soup has been a cherished recipe in our home, a testament to the enduring appeal of tortellini in a savory broth. But sometimes, a craving for something richer, something with a creamy depth, takes hold. This Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup was born from that desire – to create a soup that is not only incredibly hearty and filling but also gloriously easy to prepare. It takes the beloved elements of a classic chicken noodle soup and elevates them with the luxurious addition of cream and delectable cheese tortellini, making it an unforgettably indulgent yet wholesome meal.

The secret to its profound flavor lies in the careful balance of fresh ingredients. Vibrant carrots and crisp celery provide a delightful sweetness and texture, while minced garlic infuses the broth with an aromatic warmth. The refrigerated tortellini cooks directly in the broth, absorbing all the savory goodness and becoming wonderfully tender. And for the chicken? You have options! Opt for the convenience of a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to dramatically cut down on prep time, or, for an extra layer of flavor and texture, pan-sear chicken tenderloins until golden brown before dicing them into perfect, juicy chunks. For more brilliant ideas on how to utilize a rotisserie chicken for speedy, satisfying meals, be sure to check out my collection of Easy Recipes to Make with a Rotisserie Chicken. This soup is a testament to how simple ingredients, thoughtfully combined, can create something truly extraordinary.

A ladle lifting tortellini soup out of a white dutch oven.

Essential Ingredients and Equipment for Your Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup

Crafting this delightful soup requires a straightforward list of ingredients and basic kitchen supplies. Each component plays a crucial role in building the layers of flavor and the comforting texture that define this dish. Below you’ll find everything you need to embark on your culinary journey (exact measurements and detailed instructions are provided in the comprehensive recipe card at the bottom of this page).

Key Ingredients:

  • Olive Oil: The foundation for sautéing your aromatic vegetables, adding a subtle richness.
  • Diced Yellow Onion: Provides a sweet and savory base flavor that deepens as it cooks.
  • Chopped Carrots: Adds natural sweetness, vibrant color, and essential nutrients.
  • Chopped Celery: Contributes a crisp texture and a classic aromatic flavor profile to the soup base.
  • Minced Garlic: An indispensable flavor booster, infusing the soup with its pungent and savory essence.
  • All-Purpose Flour: Acts as a thickening agent, creating the roux that gives the soup its creamy body.
  • Italian Seasoning: A blend of classic herbs like oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary, delivering an authentic Mediterranean touch.
  • Kosher Salt: Essential for seasoning, bringing out and balancing all the flavors.
  • Fresh Ground Black Pepper: Adds a hint of warmth and a peppery kick, enhancing the overall taste.
  • Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: The liquid base for the soup, providing savory chicken flavor while allowing you to control the salt content.
  • Cooked Diced Chicken: The star protein, offering tender bites. Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver, or use leftover cooked chicken breast/thighs.
  • Refrigerated Cheese Tortellini Pasta: These delicate pasta parcels, typically filled with a blend of cheeses, cook quickly and add a wonderful chewiness and cheesy burst to every bite.
  • Heavy Cream: The magic ingredient that transforms the broth into a luxuriously creamy and indulgent texture.
  • Chopped Fresh Parsley: An optional but highly recommended garnish, adding a fresh, herbaceous note and a pop of green color.

Necessary Supplies:

  • Large Pot or Dutch Oven: A heavy-bottomed pot is ideal for even heat distribution, preventing sticking, and ensuring all your ingredients cook perfectly together in one vessel.
Ingredients to make creamy chicken tortellini soup in small glass dishes on a white marble counter.

Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup

Creating this rich and comforting soup is a straightforward process, perfect for cooks of all skill levels. Follow these simple steps to bring a bowl of deliciousness to your table:

  • Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics. Begin by heating the olive oil in your large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the diced onion, chopped carrots, chopped celery, and minced garlic. Stir frequently and cook these vegetables until they are tender-crisp and the onion becomes translucent, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. This initial sautéing step is crucial for building the foundational flavors of your soup.
  • Step 2: Build the Roux and Season. Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the softened vegetables. Stir continuously for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste and evenly coat all the vegetables. This creates a roux that will thicken your soup. Immediately follow by stirring in the Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and fresh ground black pepper. Ensure the spices are well-distributed and fragrant.
Steps to make Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup.
  • Step 3: Introduce the Broth and Simmer. Gradually pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent any lumps from forming from the flour. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a steady simmer. Allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes, giving the flavors a chance to meld and the broth to slightly thicken.
  • Step 4: Add Chicken and Tortellini. Stir in the cooked diced chicken and the refrigerated cheese tortellini. Continue to simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the tortellini pasta is tender and cooked through, and the soup has reached your desired thickened consistency. The pasta will absorb some of the broth, contributing to the richness of the soup.
Steps to make creamy chicken tortellini soup.
  • Step 5: Finish with Cream. Remove the pot from the heat and gently stir in the heavy cream. Stir until the cream is fully incorporated, transforming the soup into its signature creamy texture. Avoid boiling the soup after adding cream to prevent separation.
  • Step 6: Taste and Serve. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt and pepper to suit your preference. Ladle the hot soup into bowls. For a beautiful presentation and a burst of fresh flavor, garnish each serving with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately with a side of crusty bread for dipping, or a light green salad to complement the richness. Enjoy your homemade, comforting masterpiece!
A white Dutch oven of creamy soup with carrots, celery and tortellini pasta.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Your Leftovers

This Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup is so delicious, you might not have many leftovers! But if you do, it stores beautifully, and with a few tips, you can enjoy its comforting flavors for days to come.

To store leftover tortellini soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to four days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat individual servings in a microwave-safe bowl, covered, for about 2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through. Alternatively, for larger portions, gently reheat the soup in a pot over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, until it’s piping hot. As creamy soups tend to thicken significantly upon cooling due to the flour and pasta, you might find adding a splash or two of extra chicken broth during reheating helps restore its original soupy consistency. However, many find the thickened, casserole-like texture of the reheated soup to be incredibly satisfying, almost like a rich pasta dish – a delightful bonus!

To freeze this creamy soup, first ensure it has cooled completely to room temperature. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe plastic container or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving a little headspace for expansion. When frozen correctly, it can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, it’s crucial to allow the soup to defrost in the refrigerator overnight. This slow thawing helps minimize any potential separation or graininess that can sometimes occur with cream-based soups after freezing. Once thawed, reheat it gently in a pot over low heat, stirring frequently, until warmed through. This careful reheating process will help maintain the soup’s smooth, creamy texture and delightful flavor.

A white Dutch oven of creamy soup with carrots, celery and tortellini pasta.

Explore More Hot and Hearty Soup Recipes

There truly is no better way to find solace and warmth on a cold day than with a steaming bowl of delicious soup. If you’ve loved this Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup, you’ll be delighted to explore my collection of Hot and Hearty Soup Recipes. Each recipe is crafted to be flavorful, filling, and perfect for a satisfying one-pot dinner that everyone in your family will absolutely adore. From robust chilis to other creamy concoctions, there’s a perfect soup for every palate and occasion.

I hope this Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup becomes a beloved staple in your kitchen, bringing warmth and smiles to your family. If you whip up a batch, please don’t forget to capture a picture and share it with me on Instagram @thebakermama so I can see your wonderful creation. And if you’re a Facebook user, I invite you to join my Friends of The BakerMama group. It’s a vibrant community where we connect, share culinary adventures, and celebrate all the fun and delicious recipes you create from my collection! 😍 I genuinely love witnessing the inspiring and creative ways you bring my ideas to life. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

xoxo,

Maegan's signature

Print Recipe

Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars (2 reviews)

  • Author: The BakerMama
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6-8 servings
Print Recipe

Description

Tender chunks of chicken, carrots, celery and spices make this Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup a comforting and satisfying one-pot meal.

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced (about 1 cup)
  • 1 cup chopped carrots
  • 1 cup chopped celery
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 3 cups cooked diced chicken
  • 1 (10 ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini pasta (about 3 cups)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • Chopped fresh parsley, for garnishing

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is heated, add in the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Stir and cook until the veggies soften, about 5 minutes.
  2. Stir in the flour, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until the veggies are evenly coated.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce it to a simmer.
  4. Add in the chicken and tortellini and cook for 10-15 minutes or until the tortellini is cooked through and the soup is starting to thicken.
  5. Stir in the heavy cream.
  6. Season to taste with more salt and pepper. Serve garnished with parsley, if desired.

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can’t wait to see what you’ve made!