Introduction
Creamy Chicken Alfredo Tortellini Soup is the ultimate comfort food in a bowl. With tender chunks of chicken, soft tortellini, and a rich, creamy alfredo-style broth, this soup is a cozy and satisfying meal that brings together the best flavors of both soup and pasta. It’s an ideal dish for chilly nights or anytime you’re craving something hearty and comforting. The creaminess of the alfredo sauce pairs perfectly with the savory chicken and tender tortellini, creating a soup that feels indulgent yet comforting. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and will quickly become a family favorite.
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Creamy Chicken Alfredo Tortellini Soup – Rich, Comforting, and Satisfying
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Creamy Chicken Alfredo Tortellini Soup combines tender chicken, cheese-filled tortellini, and a rich, creamy Alfredo-style broth for a comforting, hearty meal perfect for cooler weather.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups half-and-half or heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 (9-ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove chicken from the pot and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth, half-and-half (or cream), and milk. Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Add the tortellini to the pot and cook according to package instructions (usually about 3–5 minutes), until tender and heated through.
- Return the cooked chicken to the pot. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and butter until the cheese has melted and the soup becomes creamy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- For a lighter version, you can substitute the half-and-half with skim milk or use a reduced-fat cream cheese in place of some of the cream.
- Feel free to add in vegetables like spinach, peas, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
- If you don’t have cheese tortellini, regular pasta can be substituted, but the cooking time may vary.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This soup is a creamy, flavorful, and satisfying meal that combines the richness of alfredo sauce with the heartiness of chicken and tortellini. It’s a one-pot wonder, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy the meal. The combination of creamy broth, tender chicken, and soft tortellini makes every spoonful feel indulgent, and the dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a comforting meal in no time.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Ingredients Breakdown
For the Soup Base:
- Chicken Breast: Tender, juicy chicken breast is cooked and diced into bite-sized pieces for a filling soup.
- Onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the soup.
- Garlic: Enhances the savory base of the soup and adds aromatic depth.
- Chicken Broth: Provides a rich, savory base for the soup.
- Heavy Cream: Makes the soup rich and creamy, creating the signature alfredo texture.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty, savory flavor to the soup and enhances the creaminess.
- Butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the aromatics for the soup.
- Salt and Pepper: For seasoning and enhancing the flavors of the soup.
For the Tortellini:
- Cheese Tortellini: These soft, stuffed pasta pillows cook quickly and add texture and flavor to the soup.
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh Parsley: Adds a burst of color and freshness to finish off the soup.
- Extra Parmesan: For a cheesy topping.
Directions
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Cook the Chicken:
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat and add a tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add the chicken breast and cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside to cool slightly. Once cooled, dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
- In the same pot, add a little more butter if needed, and sauté the chopped onion for 3-4 minutes, or until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
3. Make the Soup Base:
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the soup is smooth and heated through.
4. Cook the Tortellini:
- Add the cheese tortellini to the soup and cook according to the package instructions, typically 3-5 minutes, until the tortellini are tender and cooked through.
5. Combine the Chicken:
- Add the cooked chicken back into the soup and stir to combine. Let everything cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
6. Adjust Seasoning:
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
7. Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy!
Equipment needed :
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
Servings and timing
This recipe serves approximately 4-6 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, cooking time is 20-25 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or milk if the soup thickens too much. It can also be reheated in the microwave.
Variations and Customizations
Protein Swap: You can easily swap the chicken for cooked sausage, ground turkey, or even shrimp for a different twist.
Veggies: Add in some vegetables like spinach, kale, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tortellini or another gluten-free pasta in place of regular tortellini.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the soup a little heat.
Creamier Soup: For an even creamier soup, add a bit more heavy cream or mix in some cream cheese.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
Approximate values per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 470 kcal |
| Protein | 27 g |
| Carbohydrates | 35 g |
| Fat | 26 g |
| Saturated Fat | 14 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
| Sodium | 900 mg |
Expert Tips & Customizations
Creaminess Control: Adjust the richness of the soup by adding more or less heavy cream, depending on your preference.
Add Vegetables: For more color and nutrients, add fresh spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the soup up to the point where you add the tortellini, then store it in the fridge. Add the tortellini when you’re ready to cook.
FAQs
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup base ahead of time, but add the tortellini and chicken just before serving to keep the pasta from becoming mushy.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, feel free to substitute with other small pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or even small shells.
Can I freeze this soup?
While the soup can be frozen, the cream and tortellini may change texture upon reheating. If freezing, omit the tortellini and add it when reheating.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, you can use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken for a quicker version of this soup.
How can I make it dairy-free?
Use a dairy-free cream alternative and a plant-based cheese for the soup base.
Conclusion
Creamy Chicken Alfredo Tortellini Soup is a deliciously rich and comforting dish that brings together all the flavors of a classic alfredo pasta dish with the warmth and heartiness of a soup. It’s an easy-to-make, satisfying meal that will leave everyone at the table full and content. Whether you’re feeding a family or entertaining guests, this soup is sure to impress with its creamy texture, tender chicken, and flavorful tortellini.
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