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Craving a Hug in a Bowl? This Chicken and Spinach Tortellini Soup is Calling Your Name!
Imagine coming home on a chilly evening and being greeted by the warm, inviting aroma of a hearty soup. This Chicken and Spinach Tortellini Soup isn’t just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that’s both incredibly delicious and surprisingly easy to make. It’s the perfect way to naturally nourish your body and soul!
Why You’ll Love It
- It’s incredibly flavorful, combining the richness of chicken broth with the delightful chewiness of cheese tortellini and the earthy notes of spinach. The naturally delicious mix!
- It’s quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights. You can have a comforting bowl of soup on the table in under 30 minutes.
- It’s a naturally wholesome and nourishing meal, packed with protein, vitamins, and fiber.
- It’s naturally customizable to your liking. Feel free to swap out vegetables, add extra protein, or adjust the seasonings to suit your taste.
- It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even a cozy night in. Everyone will naturally love this soup!
What Makes This Recipe Unique?
This Chicken and Spinach Tortellini Soup stands out because it strikes the perfect balance between comfort food and healthy eating. Many tortellini soups are heavy and cream-based, but this version uses a flavorful chicken broth as its base, making it lighter and more naturally refreshing. The addition of shredded chicken provides a protein boost, while the spinach adds a dose of vitamins and minerals. It’s a naturally satisfying and guilt-free way to enjoy a classic soup.
Ingredient List
- 8 cups chicken broth: This forms the base of our soup and adds rich flavor.
- 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded: Adds protein and heartiness to the soup.
- 1 (9-ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini: These little pasta pockets add a delightful cheesy flavor and satisfying texture.
- 10 ounces fresh spinach, washed and roughly chopped: Provides essential vitamins and a vibrant green color.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Contributes a savory base note to the flavor profile.
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced: Adds sweetness and a pleasant texture.
- 2 celery stalks, diced: Enhances the savory flavor and provides aromatic depth.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for adding a pungent and aromatic flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for sautéing the vegetables.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: Adds a classic Italian flavor blend.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste: Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste: Adds a subtle kick.
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish (optional): Adds a salty and savory finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Naturally, make sure your pot is big enough to hold all the ingredients.
- Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened. The naturally sweet aroma will start to fill your kitchen!
- Add the minced garlic and dried Italian seasoning to the pot and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Add the cheese tortellini to the pot and cook according to the package directions, usually about 3-5 minutes, or until they are tender.
- Stir in the shredded chicken and spinach. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted and the chicken is heated through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Feel free to naturally adjust the seasoning to your liking.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy this naturally delicious soup!
Optional Toppings/Variations
Want to naturally take your Chicken and Spinach Tortellini Soup to the next level? Here are a few ideas:
- A dollop of pesto: Adds a burst of fresh, herbal flavor.
- A sprinkle of red pepper flakes: Adds a touch of heat.
- A squeeze of lemon juice: Brightens up the flavors.
- Chopped fresh parsley or basil: Adds a fresh, herbaceous element.
Expert Tips
- Don’t overcook the tortellini. They should be tender but still slightly firm to the bite. Naturally, nobody likes mushy tortellini!
- If you’re using frozen spinach, be sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the soup.
- For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth or bone broth. The naturally deep flavor makes a big difference.
- If you don’t have cooked chicken on hand, you can use rotisserie chicken or cook chicken breasts in the Instant Pot or slow cooker. Naturally, the easier, the better!
- This soup is naturally even better the next day, as the flavors have had time to meld together.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use frozen tortellini? Yes, you can use frozen tortellini. Cook them according to the package directions, adding a few extra minutes if needed. They’re naturally a great pantry staple to have on hand!
- Can I substitute the spinach for another green? Absolutely! Kale, Swiss chard, or even arugula would work well. Adjust cooking time as needed. Naturally, get creative!
- How long does this soup last in the refrigerator? This soup will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
- Can I freeze this soup? Yes, but the tortellini may become a bit soft after freezing. To minimize this, cook the tortellini al dente before adding them to the soup. Cool the soup completely before freezing.
- Can I make this soup vegetarian? Definitely! Simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add some white beans or chickpeas for extra protein. It’s naturally easy to adapt!
Variations and Customization Options
This recipe is naturally a blank canvas for your culinary creativity! Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Spicy Chicken Tortellini Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the soup for a little heat.
- Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end for a richer, creamier texture.
- Lemon Chicken Tortellini Soup: Add a squeeze of lemon juice and some lemon zest to brighten up the flavors.
- Vegetable-Packed Tortellini Soup: Add other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a naturally more nutritious soup.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken and Spinach Tortellini Soup is naturally delicious on its own as a complete meal. But here are a few ideas to enhance your dining experience:
Serve it with a side of crusty bread for dipping. A grilled cheese sandwich also makes a naturally comforting side.
Pair it with a simple green salad for a light and balanced meal. You could naturally sprinkle a vinaigrette to make it better.
Offer a selection of toppings, such as grated Parmesan cheese, pesto, and red pepper flakes, so everyone can customize their bowl. Naturally add toppings to make it better!
Ready for a Delicious Soup?
This Chicken and Spinach Tortellini Soup is a naturally comforting, easy, and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend lunch, this recipe is sure to please. So, grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy a warm and naturally nourishing bowl of soup! Share your photos with us and let us know how you naturally made it your own!
