Lemon Chicken Tortellini Soup

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s filled with tender chicken, fresh veggies, and delightful cheese tortellini. This Lemon Chicken Tortellini Soup is the perfect dish to warm you up on a chilly evening, combining zesty lemon with savory chicken broth for a symphony of flavors that will brighten your day. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy weekend indulgence, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings.

What Makes This Recipe Special

What sets this Lemon Chicken Tortellini Soup apart is its vibrant flavor profile. The combination of fresh lemon juice and zest not only elevates the taste but also adds a refreshing twist to the classic chicken soup. The use of tender chicken thighs or rotisserie chicken makes it a quick and easy meal without sacrificing flavor. Plus, the addition of fresh spinach and sweet corn provides a delightful texture and nutritional boost.

What You’ll Need

To create this delicious soup, gather the following ingredients:

• 12 oz. boneless skinless chicken thighs (or 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 8 oz. sliced mushrooms
• 1 cup carrots, sliced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons chicken bouillon
• 1 teaspoon each of dried parsley and salt
• 1/2 teaspoon each of dried thyme, dried oregano, and ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon each of pepper and red pepper flakes
• 2 bay leaves
• 9 cups low sodium chicken broth
• 1 (15.25 oz.) can sweet corn, rinsed and drained
• 12 oz. uncooked fresh cheese tortellini
• 4 cups loosely packed fresh spinach
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice plus more to taste
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional garnish)
• Lemon zest (optional)

Gear Up: What to Grab

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following tools on hand:

• A large pot or Dutch oven for cooking the soup
• A sharp knife for chopping vegetables
• A cutting board
• A wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
• A measuring cup and spoons for accurate ingredient measurements

Cooking Lemon Chicken Tortellini Soup: The Process

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In your large pot, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the chopped onion, sliced mushrooms, and carrots. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Chicken and Spices

If using raw chicken thighs, add them to the pot now. Sprinkle in the chicken bouillon, dried parsley, salt, thyme, oregano, cumin, pepper, red pepper flakes, and bay leaves. Stir everything together to coat the chicken and vegetables in the spices.

Step 3: Pour in the Broth

Pour in the low sodium chicken broth, ensuring the chicken is submerged. If you’re using shredded rotisserie chicken, wait until later to add it. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20 minutes.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

If you used raw chicken, after 20 minutes, remove the chicken thighs from the pot and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken back to the pot. If using rotisserie chicken, simply add it to the pot at this stage.

Step 5: Add the Tortellini and Corn

Stir in the uncooked cheese tortellini and sweet corn. Let it cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the tortellini are cooked through.

Step 6: Finish with Spinach and Lemon

Add the fresh spinach and lemon juice to the pot. Stir gently until the spinach has wilted. Taste and adjust seasoning with more lemon juice, salt, or pepper if needed.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the bay leaves before serving. Ladle the Lemon Chicken Tortellini Soup into bowls and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and lemon zest if desired. Enjoy the comforting warmth and zesty flavors!

Tailor It to Your Diet

This Lemon Chicken Tortellini Soup is quite versatile. Here are a few ways you can tailor it to your dietary preferences:

• For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with extra vegetables or beans and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free tortellini or omit the tortellini altogether and add more vegetables.
• If you want a creamier soup, stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream just before serving.

Troubles You Can Avoid

Avoid common pitfalls with these tips:

• Don’t overcook the tortellini; it should be tender but not mushy. Start checking a minute or two before the package instructions indicate.
• Ensure the vegetables are chopped evenly for uniform cooking.
• Adjust the lemon juice to your taste, adding a little at a time to avoid overpowering the soup.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

If you find yourself with leftovers (which is likely since this recipe makes a hearty batch), here’s how to handle them:

Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop. If the soup thickens too much, you can add a little extra broth or water to loosen it up.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen tortellini instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen tortellini. Just add them to the soup for a few extra minutes of cooking time until they are cooked through.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just be mindful that the tortellini may absorb some broth, so consider cooking them separately and adding them before serving if you plan to make it in advance.

What can I serve with this soup?

This Lemon Chicken Tortellini Soup pairs wonderfully with a crusty loaf of bread or a fresh side salad for a complete meal.

Is this soup kid-friendly?

Yes! The flavors are mild yet tasty, and kids typically enjoy the cheesy tortellini. You can adjust the spiciness by omitting the red pepper flakes.

Because You Liked This

If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also love:

• Cheesy Spinach Alfredo Tortellini
• Lemon Rosemary Chicken Soup
• Chicken Noodle Soup

Bring It Home

This Lemon Chicken Tortellini Soup is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl. The fresh flavors and comforting ingredients come together to create a dish that is both nourishing and satisfying. With its ease of preparation and versatility, this soup is bound to become a favorite in your household. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready for a delightful cooking experience. Enjoy!

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