1. Prepare the Vegetables:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
2. Build the Soup Base:
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaf, thyme, and oregano. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
3. Add the Chicken and Tortellini:
- Stir in the shredded chicken and bring the soup back to a gentle simmer.
- Add the tortellini to the pot and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 5-7 minutes for fresh tortellini, or 8-10 minutes for frozen, until they are tender and cooked through.
- If using baby spinach, stir it in during the last 2 minutes of cooking, allowing it to wilt into the soup.
4. Season and Serve:
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.
- Remove the bay leaf and discard it.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips for Perfection
- Broth Quality: Use the best quality chicken broth you can find. Homemade broth is always preferred, but a good low-sodium store-bought version works well too.
- Chicken Tips: Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds a rich, roasted flavor to the soup. You can also use leftover cooked chicken.
- Tortellini Options: Cheese tortellini are classic, but feel free to experiment with different fillings like spinach and ricotta or meat-filled tortellini.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, peas, or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
Conclusion
This chicken tortellini soup is the ultimate comfort dish, combining the hominess of chicken soup with the indulgence of cheese-filled tortellini. It’s perfect for a family dinner, a cozy night in, or even as a make-ahead meal that gets better as it sits. The rich broth, tender chicken, and hearty tortellini create a satisfying meal that will warm you from the inside out. So grab a bowl, snuggle up, and enjoy this delightful twist on a classic favorite.
Experiment with different herbs and spices to make this recipe your own. Happy cooking!