Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup with Herbs is more than a comforting fall meal, it’s a nostalgic experience rooted in my own story. My love for cooking began in my grandmother’s warm kitchen, filled with laughter, fresh herbs, and steaming bowls of soup during chilly autumn evenings. This dish takes me right back to those simple days when a single spoonful could warm the heart.
Now, after two decades cooking around the world, I bring those flavors to your kitchen through Fresh Leaf Rezepte. This creamy chicken tortellini soup with herbs has become a true reader favorite, creamy, loaded with tender chicken, pillowy cheese tortellini, and the unmistakable aroma of rosemary and thyme. It’s a bowl of joy for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays, and I’m here to show you exactly how to make it yours.
Let’s dive into everything from the ingredients and process, to success tips and fun variations, perfect for home cooks who crave seasonal comfort without the fuss.
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Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup with Herbs
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup with Herbs is a cozy, flavor-packed dish full of tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and fresh aromatic herbs. Perfect for fall nights or easy meal prep.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lb cooked shredded chicken (homemade or rotisserie)
- 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 9 oz cheese tortellini (refrigerated)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp dried basil
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tsp chopped fresh rosemary
- Optional: 1 cup baby spinach, freshly grated Parmesan (for serving)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 6–7 minutes until softened.
- Stir in garlic, thyme, basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 more minute.
- Add chicken broth and shredded chicken. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 10 minutes.
- Stir in cheese tortellini and cook for 5–7 minutes until tender.
- Lower heat and pour in heavy cream. Add rosemary and parsley. Simmer for 3 minutes without boiling.
- Optional: Add spinach just before serving and stir until wilted.
- Ladle into bowls, top with Parmesan, and serve hot.
Notes
Use rotisserie chicken to save time. Don’t boil after adding cream—simmer gently. Add fresh greens at the end to keep their color and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Comfort Food
What You’ll Need: Simple, Flavorful Ingredients
You don’t need anything fancy to make this Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup with Herbs. Just pantry staples, fresh produce, and a few aromatic herbs.
Basic Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lb cooked shredded chicken (homemade or rotisserie)
- 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 9 oz cheese tortellini (refrigerated)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp dried basil
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh Herbs to Finish
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tsp chopped fresh rosemary
Optional Add-ins
- 1 cup baby spinach
- Freshly grated Parmesan (for serving)
You might also love pairing this dish with a crispy side like Awesome Blossom Onion Bites for a full comfort spread.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup with Herbs
This recipe takes under 40 minutes start-to-finish. Here’s how to bring this delicious soup together with ease.
1. Build the Flavor Base
Heat olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 6–7 minutes until softened.
2. Add Garlic and Seasonings
Stir in minced garlic, thyme, basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook 1 more minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in Broth and Simmer
Add chicken broth and shredded chicken. Bring to a gentle boil. Reduce to medium-low and let it simmer uncovered for 10 minutes.
4. Add Tortellini
Stir in the cheese tortellini and cook for 5–7 minutes, or as directed on the package, until tender but not mushy.
5. Stir in Cream and Herbs
Lower the heat. Pour in heavy cream, fresh rosemary, and parsley. Simmer gently for another 3 minutes. Don’t let it boil!
6. Finish and Serve
Optional: Stir in spinach just before serving. Ladle into bowls and top with Parmesan and cracked black pepper.
This soup is just as satisfying as the comforting Chicken Broccoli Cheese Soup you already love, but with a rich, herb-kissed twist.
Tips for Success: Make It Foolproof
Here are my go-to kitchen tips to make this recipe easy, delicious, and customizable.
Cook Once, Eat Twice
Make a big batch and freeze half, just hold the tortellini until you reheat.
Shred Chicken Easily
Use rotisserie chicken for speed. Or, shred boneless chicken breasts after simmering them in broth for 15–20 minutes.
Watch the Cream
Don’t boil after adding cream, it can separate. Simmer gently for a velvety texture.
Add Greens at the End
Spinach, kale, or even Swiss chard wilt quickly and add nutrients. Add them during the last minute of cooking.
You could also pair this creamy dish with something bolder like the Spicy Ramen Lasagna for an unexpected comfort combo.
Variations to Make It Yours
This soup adapts well to all kinds of needs, gluten-free, vegetarian, or low-dairy. Here are a few suggestions:
Gluten-Free Version
- Use gluten-free tortellini (available at health stores and some supermarkets)
- Verify all pre-packaged broth and seasonings are labeled gluten-free
Dairy-Free Option
- Replace cream with full-fat coconut milk or oat-based cream alternatives
- Use dairy-free tortellini or add diced potatoes instead
Vegetarian Twist
- Replace chicken with cannellini beans or sautéed mushrooms
- Use vegetable broth and skip cheese toppings if vegan
Protein Boost
- Add chickpeas, white beans, or shredded turkey
- Or mix in cooked quinoa for a hearty bite
Love swapping ingredients? Check out the Dirty Martini Pasta for another inventive, flexible dish.
How to Store and Reheat Soup Properly
Soup leftovers are a dream on busy nights. Here’s how to store your creamy chicken tortellini soup with herbs without losing flavor.
In the Fridge
Let soup cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store for up to 4 days.
In the Freezer
Soup freezes well, but don’t add tortellini before freezing. Freeze the base only. When ready to serve, thaw overnight, reheat, and add fresh tortellini.
Reheating Tips
Reheat gently over medium-low heat on the stove. Add broth or a splash of water if it thickens too much. Avoid boiling once the cream is in.
You can prep this ahead for family meals just like the Popular Dinner Recipes featured on our site.
FAQs About Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup with Herbs
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Add all ingredients except tortellini and cream. Cook on low for 4–5 hours, stir in tortellini and cream in the last 20 minutes.
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Absolutely, just add it straight from frozen, increasing cooking time slightly.
Can I substitute the cream?
Yes. You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream.
Can I freeze this soup with tortellini in it?
Technically, yes, but tortellini tends to get mushy. For best texture, add them fresh when reheating.
Conclusion: A Bowl of Cozy Comfort You’ll Crave
There’s something magical about a creamy bowl of soup after a long day. Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup with Herbs checks every box: easy to make, deeply satisfying, endlessly adaptable, and brimming with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for the family, prepping meals ahead, or simply want to enjoy fall in a bowl, this recipe is for you.
So grab your ingredients, pull out a big pot, and let this cozy meal bring warmth and joy to your table, just like it does at mine.
Looking for more soul-soothing recipes? You’ll love the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole or try a seasonal side like the Pumpkin Hummus with Pita Chips to round out your meal.