High-Protein Chicken Tortellini Soup

There’s a chill in the air, and that can only mean one thing: it’s soup season! This Chicken Tortellini Soup is not only a comforting bowl of joy—packed with protein (a whopping 22 grams per serving)—but it’s also a feast for the senses. Picture the aroma of sautéed garlic mingling with bell peppers and the warmth of spices wrapping around luscious cheese tortellini. It’s the perfect antidote for those brisk days when cozying up at home sounds just right.

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Why This Chicken Tortellini Soup is a Weeknight Hero

If you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that’s ready in no time, this Chicken Tortellini Soup hits the sweet spot. It marries wholesome ingredients with unbeatable flavor, keeping your family happy and nourished. Plus, the beauty of this recipe is its flexibility—the infallible method means it’s hard to go wrong, making it ideal for novice cooks and seasoned kitchen pros alike.

What You’ll Need

To whip up this delightful soup, here’s your ingredient lineup:

• 1 Tablespoon avocado oil
• 2 medium bell peppers, diced (about 2 cups)
• 1 cup diced onion
• 1 Tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 Tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 12 ounces frozen corn
• 1 14.5 ounce can diced fire-roasted tomatoes, not drained
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups diced cooked chicken breast
• 1 1/2 cups cottage cheese, blended
• 18 ounces refrigerated cheese tortellini

Let’s Cook

Ready to take on this delicious recipe? Here’s your step-by-step guide:

1. In a Dutch oven, heat the oil.
2. Add the peppers, onions, and garlic, and sauté until the onions begin to soften on medium-high heat.
3. Sprinkle the spices on the veggies, stir well, and sauté for another 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the frozen corn and fire-roasted tomatoes, stir well, and mix everything thoroughly.
5. Pour in the broth and chicken, allowing the soup to come to a low boil.
6. Let the soup cook for 5 minutes, giving flavors a chance to meld.
7. Add 1/4 to 1/3 cup of the hot broth from the soup to the blended cottage cheese and whisk vigorously to combine smoothly.
8. Pour the cottage cheese mixture slowly into the soup, stirring constantly until it’s incorporated completely.
9. Add the tortellini and allow it to cook for 5 minutes until tender.
10. Serve with a squeeze of lime juice and shredded cheese on top.
11. Storage Tip: Refrigerate the cooled soup in an airtight container for 3-4 days, or freeze the soup base (excluding tortellini) for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave when desired. For best results, blend the cottage cheese until smooth and allow it to reach room temperature before adding it to the soup for seamless incorporation.

Nutrition Breakdown

This comforting Chicken Tortellini Soup not only satisfies but also nourishes. Each serving contains approximately 400 calories, 22 grams of protein, 45 grams of carbohydrates, 15 grams of fat, and 5 grams of fiber. Get the benefits of veggies, protein-packed chicken, and nutrient-rich cottage cheese—all in one delightful bowl. Enjoying this soup not only warms your hands; it fortifies your body, making it a top choice for health-conscious families.

Perfect Pairings

Serve this rich soup with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad to complete the meal. It’s also perfect for those cozy nights in, a robust option when gathering with loved ones during chilly evenings, or as a delightful addition to your fall or winter dinner table.

How to Store It Right

Storing this delicious soup is straightforward. Refrigerate cooled soup in an airtight container for 3-4 days or freeze the soup base (without tortellini) for up to 3 months. For reheating, simply warm it on the stovetop for an even and gentle heat, or zap it in the microwave until heated through. An excellent tip for maintaining freshness: let it cool completely before sealing it to avoid moisture build-up.

Pro Tips

1. For extra creaminess, stir in a splash of heavy cream just before serving for a gourmet touch.
2. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley sprinkled on top boost flavor and add a pop of color.
3. If you enjoy a kick, sprinkle some extra cayenne or red pepper flakes when serving.
4. Make it vegetarian by swapping out chicken for chickpeas and using vegetable broth instead!
5. Think about texture: ensure not to overcook the tortellini; they should be al dente for the best bite.

Flavor Experiments

Feeling adventurous? Try these fun variations:

1. Seasonal Twist: Add roasted butternut squash in the fall for a sweet and savory balance.
2. Gourmet Variation: Just before serving, toss in some baby spinach or arugula for an added layer of sophistication.
3. Playful Option: Swap the cheese tortellini for mini ravioli and mix in a dollop of pesto for an herby twist.

Learn from My Mistakes

Here are a few common hiccups to avoid:

1. Overcooking Tortellini: They should stay firm and tender. Follow package instructions for cooking times to avoid mushiness.
2. Flavor Flatness: Neglecting to season properly can lead to blandness. Always taste and adjust seasoning as you go.
3. Cottage Cheese Clumps: Blend it thoroughly and ensure it’s at room temperature to seamlessly incorporate into the soup.
4. Too Thick: If the soup becomes too thick while storing, simply add a bit more chicken broth when reheating to get that perfect consistency.
5. Unbalanced Taste: If the soup tastes off, a squeeze of lemon or lime juice can brighten the flavors instantly.

What to Do with Leftovers

1. Tortellini Bake: Pour leftover soup in a baking dish, top with cheese and breadcrumbs, and bake until bubbly for a new dish.
2. Soup Pot Pie: Use it as a filling for a cozy pot pie topped with your favorite flaky crust.
3. Savory Breakfast: Transform it into a breakfast bowl by adding a poached egg on top and serving it with toast.

Curious Cooks Ask

Can you freeze Chicken Tortellini Soup? Absolutely! Just freeze the soup base (without tortellini) in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

How long does it take to make? This cozy soup comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Can I use fresh tortellini instead? Definitely! If you’re using fresh tortellini, adjust the cooking time as they usually cook faster.

What can I add for extra protein? Adding beans, chickpeas, or more chicken is a great way to boost the protein content in this already protein-packed meal.

Now, grab those ingredients and get cooking! Your cozy meal awaits!