If you’re craving a comforting bowl that feels like a warm hug from the inside, this Pesto Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. It perfectly balances tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, vibrant baby spinach, and hearty white beans in a fragrant basil pesto-infused broth. Each spoonful bursts with layers of flavor and texture, making it an irresistible meal that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying to eat. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing recipe, this soup will quickly become one of your go-to favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this Pesto Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe right starts with a handful of fresh, straightforward ingredients. Each component plays an essential role in building the perfect harmony of taste, texture, and color — from the creamy pesto to the tender chicken and the pop of greens.
- 2 Tablespoons salted butter: Adds a rich, velvety base for sautéing your aromatics and deepening the flavor.
- 1 onion (diced): Brings natural sweetness and depth to the broth.
- 2 garlic cloves (minced): Gives your soup an irresistible fragrant kick.
- 8 cups low sodium chicken broth: The hearty foundation that carries all your flavors together.
- 3 Tablespoons BUITONI Pesto with Basil: The star ingredient that infuses the soup with bright, herbal notes and creamy texture.
- 1 package BUITONI Herb Chicken Tortellini: Tender, cheese-stuffed tortellini that doubles the protein and heartiness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavor.
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (cooked and cubed): Protein-packed, juicy, and tender, elevating the soup to a full meal.
- 2 cups baby spinach: Adds freshness, color, and a mild earthy bite.
- 2 cans white beans (14.5 ounces each): For extra creaminess, fiber, and a satisfying texture contrast.
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces): Offers a subtle acidity and brightness to balance the richness.
- Grated parmesan for garnish: The finishing touch that adds a salty, umami-packed lift to every bite.
How to Make Pesto Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the aromatics
Start by melting the butter in a large Dutch oven or stockpot over medium-high heat. Toss in the diced onion and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until it’s soft and just beginning to turn translucent. Then add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until the kitchen smells utterly heavenly and the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
Step 2: Build the broth base
Pour in the chicken broth, then stir in the pesto and diced tomatoes. The pesto will melt right into the broth, coloring it a lovely green hue and imparting rich, herbal flavor that’s irresistible.
Step 3: Cook the tortellini
Bring the soup to a boil, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Slowly stir in the tortellini to ensure none stick to the bottom. These little pillows of cheesy goodness will soak up some of that flavorful broth as they cook.
Step 4: Season with salt and pepper
Now’s the time to taste and season the soup with salt and pepper. This little step lets you control the balance and make it just right to suit your palate.
Step 5: Simmer the tortellini to al dente perfection
Let the soup simmer for approximately 7 minutes or until the tortellini is tender yet still has a slight bite. Overcooked pasta tends to be mushy, so keep an eye on it.
Step 6: Add chicken, spinach, and beans
Stir in your pre-cooked cubed chicken, baby spinach, and drained white beans. These ingredients add heartiness, a burst of color, and wonderful texture contrast to the soup.
Step 7: Simmer until spinach wilts
Give everything a good stir and let it simmer just until the spinach softens and wilts nicely, about 2 to 3 minutes. This keeps the greens tender but not soggy.
Step 8: Garnish and serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle generous amounts of grated parmesan cheese on top. The salty, nutty parmesan adds a perfect finishing touch that complements the pesto beautifully.
Step 9: Enjoy!
Grab a spoon, dig in, and savor every cozy bite of this delicious Pesto Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe. It’s comfort food elevated to something truly special.
How to Serve Pesto Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A little extra parmesan never hurts, and fresh basil leaves can add a pretty pop of green and boost the herbal notes. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can also add exciting layers of flavor.
Side Dishes
This soup is a satisfying main dish but pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, garlic knots, or a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette. These sides add texture contrast and a chance to soak up any leftover broth.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the soup in rustic bread bowls for an eye-catching presentation that doubles as an edible vessel. For a fancy touch, place a few tortellini on a spoon garnished with parmesan and basil as an appetizer taste before serving bowls to guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer your soup to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors will actually meld and deepen overnight, making leftovers even better the next day.
Freezing
This soup freezes well without losing its charm. Make sure to leave out the spinach when freezing, adding fresh greens when reheating to preserve their texture. Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Reheating
Thaw overnight in the fridge or gently reheat on the stovetop over medium heat. Add fresh spinach during reheating if you froze your soup without it, and stir in some extra parmesan to brighten the flavors up again.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that adds flavor and saves time without sacrificing deliciousness.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
You can omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Adding extra beans or mushrooms will keep the soup hearty and satisfying.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can sauté the aromatics separately, then add everything except tortellini and spinach to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, then add tortellini and spinach in the last 30 minutes.
What type of pesto works best?
Fresh, high-quality basil pesto like BUITONI adds authentic flavor. You can substitute homemade pesto if you prefer, but avoid jarred variants with preservatives that can affect taste.
Can I substitute the tortellini with another pasta?
Sure! Cheese ravioli or small filled pastas work great, and even small shapes like orecchiette or shells will pair nicely in the soup.
Final Thoughts
This Pesto Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe is the kind of meal that makes you feel instantly cozy and satisfied while impressing family and friends with its vibrant flavors. Easy to prepare, wonderfully versatile, and absolutely delicious, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. So grab your ingredients, dive in, and treat yourself to a bowl of pure comfort!
