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Creamy Chicken Spinach Tortellini Soup Recipe

If you’re craving a cozy, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, then this Creamy Chicken Spinach Tortellini Soup Recipe is going to be your new go-to. I absolutely love how this soup combines tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and fresh spinach in a rich, creamy broth that’ll have you coming back for seconds (and thirds!). Whether it’s chilly outside or you just want something satisfying for dinner, this recipe really hits the spot.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Ultimate Comfort Food: Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with tender chicken and tortellini that warm you up instantly.
  • Easy Weeknight Dinner: Takes just about 35 minutes from start to finish, perfect for busy evenings.
  • Nutritious & Flavorful: Fresh spinach adds a wonderful pop of color and nutrients without overpowering the dish.
  • Versatile & Customizable: You can swap seasonings or add extra cheese to suit your family’s tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Creamy Chicken Spinach Tortellini Soup Recipe plays a simple but important role—from sautéed veggies laying the flavor foundation to the creamy finish that ties it all together. I’ll share a few tips so you get the most out of each component.

Flat lay of small white ceramic bowls with bright diced celery, finely diced white onion, and vivid diced orange carrots, a small white bowl holding golden yellow turmeric powder, fresh green thyme and oregano sprigs lying nearby, a neat pile of cooked shredded chicken with natural texture, a cluster of pale yellow uncooked cheese tortellini pasta, fresh baby spinach leaves roughly chopped arranged on a white plate, a small white bowl filled with smooth heavy cream, a small white bowl containing grated sharp cheddar cheese, a small white bowl with solid cubes of creamy butter, whole uncracked brown eggs beside a small white bowl of raw flour, all placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997 - Creamy Chicken Spinach Tortellini Soup, creamy chicken tortellini soup, spinach tortellini soup recipe, easy creamy chicken soup, comforting tortellini soup
  • Butter: I always use unsalted so I can control the saltiness myself.
  • Diced celery, onion, and carrots: These classic soup veggies add natural sweetness and texture.
  • Chicken broth: Use low-sodium if you can, that way you won’t oversalt the soup.
  • Flour: This thickens the broth just right—don’t skip it!
  • Thyme and oregano: These herbs bring a warm, earthy flavor. Fresh thyme works beautifully if you have it.
  • Turmeric (optional): I discovered turmeric’s subtle warmth and stunning golden color elevate this soup.
  • Cooked shredded or diced chicken: Leftover rotisserie chicken works wonders to save time.
  • Frozen cheese tortellini: No need to thaw, just toss it straight in.
  • Fresh baby spinach: Adds freshness and color—chop roughly to keep it rustic.
  • Heavy cream: This makes the soup luxuriously creamy—don’t skimp here!
  • Grated cheddar cheese (optional): I like stirring this in at the end for an extra cheesy punch.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I like to play around with this Creamy Chicken Spinach Tortellini Soup Recipe depending on what I have in my fridge or pantry. It’s super forgiving and flexible, so feel free to tailor it to your taste.

  • Use Italian seasoning instead of thyme and oregano: This combo adds a classic Mediterranean twist that my family adores.
  • Swap out heavy cream: If you want it lighter, half-and-half or coconut milk works, just keep in mind the flavor changes slightly.
  • Add more veggies: I’ve tossed in mushrooms or zucchini before, which adds extra texture and nutrients without overpowering.
  • Make it spicy: A pinch of red pepper flakes amps up the warmth and depth if you enjoy heat.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Spinach Tortellini Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Veggies to Build Flavor

Start by melting butter in a large pot over medium heat—I usually use my trusty Dutch oven for even heat distribution. Toss in the diced celery, onions, and carrots, cooking until the veggies become tender and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. This step is key! It softens the vegetables and develops that rich base flavor your soup needs.

Step 2: Thicken with Flour and Add Seasonings

Sprinkle the flour over your sautéed veggies and stir well to coat everything. This helps thicken the soup later on. Next, add your thyme, oregano, turmeric (if using), salt, and pepper along with the shredded chicken and chicken broth. Turn the heat up to high and bring the soup to a boil, letting it bubble for about 5 minutes while stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Cook the Tortellini

Add the frozen cheese tortellini to the soup—no thawing needed. It might stop the boil momentarily, but just give it a minute to reheat and bring back to a gentle boil. Then, reduce the heat to medium-high and simmer for 2 more minutes until the tortellini are tender but not mushy. This is where the magic happens—the cheese-filled pasta adds incredible texture and flavor!

Step 4: Finish with Spinach & Cream

Turn the heat to low and add the chopped fresh spinach and heavy cream. Stir gently to combine, letting the spinach wilt just enough without losing its vibrant color. This final touch makes the soup incredibly creamy and hearty. If you want, stir in some grated cheddar for a cheesy boost. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then keep warm until serving.

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Pro Tips for Making Creamy Chicken Spinach Tortellini Soup Recipe

  • Don’t Overcook the Tortellini: They can get mushy fast, so keep an eye and simmer just until tender.
  • Use Rotisserie Chicken: I love using leftover rotisserie for flavor and to save time—shred it finely for even bites.
  • Fresh Herbs Boost Flavor: If you have fresh thyme, double the amount and add at the end for a bright, fresh note.
  • Avoid Separating Cream: Always add heavy cream off the heat or on very low to keep soup velvety—no curdling here!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Spinach Tortellini Soup Recipe

A white pot with green handles is filled with a creamy yellow soup that has visible herbs sprinkled throughout. The soup contains three main layers of ingredients: chopped dark green leafy vegetables scattered evenly, small orange carrot pieces spread across the surface, and light-colored tortellini pasta floating gently. The soup has a smooth texture with bits of herbs and spices, creating a rich, comforting look. The pot sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Creamy Chicken Spinach Tortellini Soup, creamy chicken tortellini soup, spinach tortellini soup recipe, easy creamy chicken soup, comforting tortellini soup

Garnishes

I like to top my bowls with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan, a few cracks of black pepper, and sometimes a drizzle of good olive oil. The cheese adds a salty punch that perfectly complements the creamy broth, and the olive oil adds a slight richness. Fresh chopped parsley or basil can brighten the flavors wonderfully, too.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with a crunchy slice of crusty bread or garlic breadsticks. I also love serving it alongside a simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. It’s a balanced, hearty meal that feels indulgent without being heavy.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve served this soup in mini bread bowls—just hollow out small round loaves and ladle the soup inside. It’s such a fun and cozy presentation that makes guests feel extra special. Garnish with edible flowers or fresh herb sprigs for a pretty touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After cooling the soup, I store it in airtight containers in the fridge. It keeps beautifully for up to 5 days, making it an easy lunch or dinner option throughout the week. Just give it a good stir when reheating because the cream may settle a bit.

Freezing

This soup freezes well for 2-3 months. I suggest freezing it without the fresh spinach and cream if possible, adding those fresh when you reheat to keep that bright taste and creamy texture. If you don’t, the soup might separate slightly but still tastes great.

Reheating

Reheat soup gently over low-medium heat on the stove, stirring often. If it’s too thick after cooling or freezing, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up. Add fresh spinach and cream at this stage if you held them back. Microwaving also works fine—heat in 1-minute bursts, stirring in between.

FAQs

  1. Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken for this soup?

    Absolutely! Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is one of my favorite time-savers, and it adds plenty of flavor. Just shred or dice it before adding to the soup in step 2.

  2. What if I don’t have heavy cream—can I substitute it?

    You can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, but keep in mind the soup won’t be as rich and creamy. Coconut milk is another option for a dairy-free twist, but it may change the flavor profile slightly.

  3. Is there a way to make this soup vegetarian?

    Yes! Swap out the chicken broth for vegetable broth, omit the chicken, and add extra cheese tortellini or beans for protein. You can also add more veggies like mushrooms or zucchini.

  4. How do I prevent the soup from separating when adding cream?

    To keep the soup silky, add the cream at the end off the heat or over very low heat, stirring gently. Avoid boiling once the cream is in the pot.

  5. Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?

    You can sauté the veggies and chicken first, then combine all ingredients except spinach, cream, and tortellini in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 3-4 hours, then stir in spinach, cream, and tortellini during the last 15 minutes.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken Spinach Tortellini Soup Recipe has become a staple in my home because it’s so comforting and easy to make, yet impressive enough to share with guests. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a special treat but doesn’t ask for hours in the kitchen. I hope you enjoy making it as much as my family and I do—warm bowls of this soup always bring smiles around our table. Grab your pot, and let’s get cooking!

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Creamy Chicken Spinach Tortellini Soup Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.5 from 147 reviews
  • Author: Lisa
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Creamy Chicken Spinach Tortellini Soup is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for chilly days. Combining tender shredded chicken, cheesy tortellini, fresh spinach, and a creamy broth infused with aromatic herbs, this soup offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Easy to prepare with common ingredients, it makes a satisfying meal for lunch or dinner.


Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • 1 cup diced celery
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 1 cup diced carrots
  • 2 cups fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped

Broth and Seasonings

  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon flour
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon cracked pepper

Proteins and Dairy

  • 2 cups cooked shredded or diced chicken
  • 12 ounces frozen cheese tortellini
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Sauté Vegetables: Over medium heat, melt butter in a large pot or Dutch oven. Add diced celery, onions, and carrots, then sauté until the vegetables are tender and aromatic, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Add Flour: Sprinkle the flour evenly over the sautéed vegetables and stir well to coat them. This helps thicken the soup later.
  3. Add Seasonings and Broth: Stir in thyme, oregano, turmeric (if using), salt, and cracked pepper. Add the shredded chicken along with the chicken broth and water. Increase heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil. Allow it to boil for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to blend flavors.
  4. Cook Tortellini: Add the frozen cheese tortellini to the boiling soup. The boiling will temporarily stop, so bring it back to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-high and gently boil for 2 minutes until the tortellini are tender but firm.
  5. Finish Soup: Lower the heat to keep the soup warm. Stir in the roughly chopped fresh spinach and heavy cream, mixing until the spinach wilts slightly and the soup is creamy. Optionally, sprinkle with grated cheddar cheese before serving for extra richness.

Notes

  • Turmeric adds a beautiful yellow color and a subtle earthy flavor; it is optional and can be omitted if unavailable or undesired.
  • Fresh thyme can be used instead of dried; if so, increase the quantity to 2 teaspoons for better flavor.
  • Italian seasoning can substitute thyme and oregano combined; use 2 teaspoons in total.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • Reheat individual servings in the microwave or on the stovetop.
  • This soup freezes well for 2-3 months; thaw and reheat thoroughly before serving.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 1.5 cups)
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 700mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

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