There’s nothing more comforting than a warm bowl of creamy soup on a chilly day, and this Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup delivers that perfect cozy feeling in every single bite. It combines tender shredded chicken, cheese-filled tortellini, hearty vegetables, and a velvety broth that feels rich, soothing, and incredibly satisfying. Every spoonful brings together creamy texture, savory herbs, and soft pasta pillows that melt into the broth.
The magic of this soup lies in its simplicity. With everyday ingredients and just one pot, you can create a meal that feels restaurant-worthy but incredibly easy to prepare at home. Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting friends, or craving a comforting weeknight dinner, this soup fills your kitchen with warmth and your bowls with hearty, creamy goodness.
If you love cozy, comforting meals that bring instant satisfaction, this Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup will quickly become one of your cold-weather favorites. It’s creamy, hearty, and guaranteed to hit the spot.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup
- Loaded with cheese-filled tortellini that add richness and texture.
- Creamy, velvety broth packed with savory flavor.
- Simple ingredients and minimal prep — perfect for busy nights.
- One-pot recipe that cooks quickly and reheats beautifully.
- Warm, cozy, and incredibly comforting.
- Family-friendly and picky-eater approved.
- Customizable with vegetables, herbs, or protein variations.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
This soup transforms basic staples like chicken, broth, and tortellini into a creamy, dreamy bowl of comfort. The tortellini softens into the broth, the chicken absorbs the savory flavors, and the cream creates a silky finish that brings the whole dish together. It’s filling, satisfying, and incredibly flavorful without requiring complicated techniques.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal, a cozy winter soup, or a crowd-pleasing dish for guests, this recipe works every time. It tastes indulgent yet homemade, and the leftovers are even better the next day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 4 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Creamy Finish
- 2 cups refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan or Italian blend cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour (optional, for extra thickness)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley
- Extra Parmesan
- Cracked black pepper
How to Make Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Step 2: Add the Chicken and Broth
Add shredded chicken, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well so the flavors blend.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes. This helps the flavors develop and the vegetables soften.
Step 4: Add the Tortellini
Add cheese tortellini to the pot and cook according to package directions, usually 4–6 minutes, until tender.
Step 5: Make It Creamy
Lower the heat. Stir in heavy cream and butter. Add flour only if you want a thicker broth. Mix until smooth.
Step 6: Add Spinach and Cheese
Add spinach and shredded Parmesan. Stir until the cheese melts and the spinach wilts into the creamy broth.
Step 7: Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls. Top with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan, and black pepper. Serve warm with garlic bread or a fresh salad.
Tips for the Best Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup
Use fresh tortellini
It cooks faster and has better texture.
Add the tortellini last
Overcooking them makes them mushy.
Shred your own cheese
Freshly grated cheese melts smoother than pre-shredded.
Simmer gently after adding cream
Boiling it can cause separation.
Add spinach at the very end
This keeps it bright, green, and tender.
Taste and adjust seasoning
Broths vary, so adjust salt as needed.
Make it richer
Add more Parmesan, a splash of cream, or a pat of butter.
Make it lighter
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Variations & Substitutions
- Sausage Tortellini Soup: Add cooked Italian sausage.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with mushrooms and use vegetable broth.
- Spicy Variation: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
- Low-Carb Option: Swap tortellini for zucchini noodles.
- Extra Veggies: Add mushrooms, peas, or butternut squash cubes.
- Herb Lover’s Version: Add basil, rosemary, or fresh thyme.
- Extra Creamy: Add a small block of cream cheese for richness.
What to Serve With Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup
- Crusty artisan bread
- Garlic knots or garlic toast
- Parmesan breadsticks
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Simple green salad with vinaigrette
This soup pairs beautifully with anything warm, buttery, and carb-friendly.
Storage & Reheating Tips
To Store
Refrigerate in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
To Freeze
Freeze before adding tortellini and cream for the best texture. Add them only after reheating.
To Reheat
Warm gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Add a splash of broth or cream if needed. Avoid boiling after adding dairy.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use raw chicken?
Yes, add raw chicken breasts or thighs, cook until tender, then shred.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, add everything except cream, cheese, spinach, and tortellini. Add these in the last 20–30 minutes.
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, but cook a few minutes longer.
Can I make it thicker?
Add more cheese or a flour slurry.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Use coconut milk and dairy-free cheese alternatives.
Does it taste good the next day?
Yes, although the tortellini may soften. Add extra broth when reheating.
Can I add bacon?
Yes, crispy bacon is delicious on top.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely — it saves time.
Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the soup will be slightly thinner.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a large pot and double everything.