Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken and Tortellini Soup

A Flavorful and Hearty Italian-Inspired Soup

This creamy tomato basil chicken and tortellini soup is like a warm hug in a bowl! Juicy chicken breast, stuffed tortellini pasta, and vegetables simmer in a rich tomato basil broth infused with cream. Ready in under 30 minutes, this easy soup makes a comforting Italian-inspired meal.

The combination of tender chicken, pillow-soft tortellini, and creamy tomato broth is irresistible. Fresh spinach and Parmesan cheese add nutrition and more bold flavor. Whether you're craving comfort food or an easy weeknight dinner, this chicken tortellini soup delivers.

Read on for the simple recipe steps and tips to make this vibrant, hearty soup at home. Buon appetito!

Ingredients

Here's what you'll need to make 4-6 servings of this yummy soup:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 5 cups chicken broth
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 3 Tbsp tomato paste
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 (9 oz) package tortellini pasta
• Fresh basil, Parmesan cheese

That's all you need for an easy homemade soup that tastes like it simmered all day. Let's get this soothing chicken tortellini soup started!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here's how quick and easy it is to make this hearty bowl of chicken tortellini soup:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot over medium heat, sauté the onion for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the garlic and sauté 1 minute more.

Simmer the Broth

Add the chicken broth, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and cream. Stir and bring to a simmer.

Cook the Chicken

Add the chicken breasts and simmer for 15 minutes until cooked through.

Shred the Chicken

Remove cooked chicken and shred with two forks. Return shredded chicken to the pot.

Add Spinach and Tortellini

Stir in fresh spinach and uncooked tortellini. Cook 5 minutes more.

Season and Serve

Season to taste with salt, pepper and fresh basil. Ladle into bowls and top with Parmesan cheese.

Ingredient Swaps

Try these easy ingredient swaps:

• Turkey breast or Italian sausage instead of chicken
• Kale, chard or escarole instead of spinach
• Orzo, farfalle or rotelle pasta instead of tortellini
• Parmesan rind for extra flavor
• Roasted garlic or garlic powder

Get creative with ingredients to make this hearty soup your own!

Recipe Tips

Follow these tips for best results:

• Use fresh tomatoes for optimal flavor.
• Cut the chicken and veggies to similar bite-size pieces.
• Hand shred or dice chicken for tender pieces.
• Add tortellini at the end so it doesn't overcook.
• Garnish bowls with extra basil and Parmesan.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy this chicken tortellini soup with:

• Warm garlic bread
• Bruschetta
• Caesar salad
• Wine poached pears

A chilled Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc wine would complement this cozy Italian soup perfectly.

Storing Leftovers

Here are some tips for delicious soup leftovers:

• Let soup cool completely before storing in the fridge.
• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Reheat gently over medium-low heat until warmed through.
• Add extra broth or water to thin, if needed.
• Garnish again with fresh basil and Parmesan before serving.

Enjoy this comforting tomato basil chicken and tortellini soup all week long with proper storage!

FAQs

What other pastas can I use?

Try orzo, farfalle, rotelle, small shells, orecchiette or other small shapes instead.

Do I need to thaw frozen spinach?

No, you can add frozen spinach straight to the simmering soup to thaw and wilt it.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken is a convenient shortcut in this soup.

Should I salt before simmering?

Go light on salt at first, then adjust to taste after simmering, as broth reduces.

Can I prep this soup ahead?

Yes! Fully prepare soup then refrigerate up to 5 days or freeze up to 3 months.

The Takeaway

This creamy tomato basil chicken and tortellini soup is an easy weeknight dinner option with bold Italian flavors. With juicy chicken, stuffed pasta, and simmered vegetables in a rich creamy tomato broth, it's incredibly satisfying. Best of all, it comes together quickly for a soul-warming meal everyone will request again and again!

Conclusion

Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken and Tortellini Soup delivers comforting Italian flavors in one hearty bowl. Juicy chicken breast, stuffed tortellini pasta, and vegetables simmer in a rich tomato and cream broth. Fresh spinach and Parmesan add nutrition and bold taste. Ready in under 30 minutes, this satisfying soup makes a quick yet flavorful dinner or lunch. With convenient make-ahead options for busy nights, this chicken tortellini recipe will become a staple!

FAQs

What pastas can I substitute for tortellini?

Try orzo, farfalle, rotelle, orecchiette or any other small pastas.

How should I store and reheat leftovers?

Refrigerate up to 5 days. Reheat gently over medium-low heat, adding broth as needed.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken works great in this recipe.

Do I need to thaw frozen spinach?

No, you can add frozen spinach straight to the simmering soup.

Can I prep the soup ahead of time?

Yes, prepare completely and refrigerate up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.