There’s nothing more comforting than coming home to the smell of a hearty, homemade soup simmering away in your kitchen. If you’re looking for a warm, creamy, and satisfying meal that practically cooks itself, then this Crockpot Chicken Tortellini Soup is just what you need.
Loaded with tender shredded chicken, cheesy tortellini, fresh vegetables, and a rich, savory broth, this soup is the perfect mix of convenience and comfort. Whether you’re serving it on a cold winter night or as a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe never fails to please.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover everything you need to make this soup perfectly every time—from exact ingredient measurements to professional cooking tips, freezer advice, and delicious variations.
⭐ Why You’ll Love This Soup
- 🕒 Effortless Slow Cooking: Just set it and forget it—perfect for busy schedules.
- 🧀 Cheesy Tortellini Goodness: Every bite is creamy, cheesy, and irresistible.
- 🐔 Protein-Packed: Hearty shredded chicken adds nutrition and satiety.
- 🌿 Fresh Vegetables: Carrots, celery, and optional spinach bring balance.
- 🧒 Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love it—no picky eater complaints.
- ❄️ Freezer-Friendly: Save leftovers for later with minimal effort.
🛒 Ingredients (with Measurements)
Here’s everything you’ll need for this Crockpot Chicken Tortellini Soup. Most ingredients are pantry staples, making it a go-to recipe on busy weeknights.
Main Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1.5 cups sliced carrots
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 2 cups refrigerated or frozen cheese tortellini
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 2 cups baby spinach (optional)
🥄 Optional Add-Ins & Toppings
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (for heat)
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
- Crusty garlic bread on the side
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
🥘 Step 1: Add Ingredients to the Crockpot
Place the chicken, chicken broth, carrots, celery, garlic, and seasonings (basil, oregano, thyme, salt, pepper) into your crockpot. Stir to combine and ensure the chicken is submerged.
🔥 Step 2: Slow Cook to Perfection
- Cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
🍗 Step 3: Shred the Chicken
Remove the chicken breasts/thighs, shred them using two forks, and return the meat to the crockpot. Stir well to combine.
🍝 Step 4: Add Tortellini
Add the tortellini to the soup. Set your crockpot to HIGH and cook for 20–30 minutes, or until the pasta is tender but not mushy.
🥛 Step 5: Stir in Cream and Spinach
Pour in the heavy cream and stir gently. If you’re using spinach, add it now and allow it to wilt for 5–10 minutes.
🥣 Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Sprinkle with parmesan cheese or chopped parsley if desired. Serve with toasted bread or a light salad.
🍽️ What to Serve With Chicken Tortellini Soup
This soup is rich and flavorful on its own, but here are some side pairings that make it a complete meal:
- Garlic knots or focaccia bread
- Caesar salad or spinach salad
- Oven-roasted green beans or broccoli
- A glass of chilled white wine or lemon-infused sparkling water
💡 Pro Cooking Tips
| Tip | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Use frozen chicken | No need to thaw—just increase cook time by 30 minutes |
| Add tortellini late | Prevents overcooked, mushy pasta |
| Stir cream in slowly | Prevents curdling |
| Use rotisserie chicken | Saves time, perfect for a 20-minute version |
| Boost flavor | Add a parmesan rind during cooking |
🔄 Variations & Customizations
You can easily make this recipe your own based on dietary needs or preferences.
🧀 Tortellini Variations:
- Use spinach & cheese tortellini for a veggie boost.
- Try mushroom or sausage-filled tortellini for different flavors.
🌿 Add More Veggies:
- Diced zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms work great.
- Add kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach.
🥥 Dairy-Free Option:
- Use coconut cream and plant-based tortellini for a creamy, lactose-free soup.
🔥 Make it Spicy:
- Add a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes.
🍗 Different Proteins:
- Try ground turkey, cooked sausage, or white beans for a vegetarian twist.
🧊 Storage & Leftovers
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze without the tortellini or cream for up to 2 months. Add those after reheating.
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add extra broth if the tortellini absorbed too much liquid.
❓ FAQs
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes! Add them straight from frozen during the final 30 minutes of cooking.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
Try half-and-half, whole milk, or unsweetened coconut cream for a lighter or dairy-free version.
How do I make this on the stove instead of a crockpot?
Use a large Dutch oven or soup pot. Simmer the chicken for 20–25 minutes, then follow the remaining steps.
Can I freeze the finished soup?
Yes, but for best texture, freeze before adding cream and tortellini. Add them fresh after thawing and reheating.
Is this soup healthy?
It’s a balanced, protein-rich meal with veggies. To lighten it, use reduced-fat dairy or skip the cream altogether.
🍲 Nutrition Info (Per Serving – Estimated)
- Calories: 410
- Protein: 29g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 690mg
Note: Nutrition will vary depending on exact ingredients used.
📌 Save & Share This Recipe!
If you loved this Creamy Crockpot Chicken Tortellini Soup, be sure to:
- Pin it to your favorite recipe board on Pinterest
- Share it with friends and family who love cozy meals
- Leave a comment with your personal twist or how it turned out!
🧡 Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Chicken Tortellini Soup is the definition of comfort food. It’s hearty, creamy, and incredibly satisfying—but also easy enough for even the busiest home cook. Whether you’re feeding your family, prepping for a potluck, or simply craving something warm and nourishing, this slow cooker recipe delivers every time.
Give it a try, and it just might become your new favorite soup.
