If you are searching for a cozy, comforting, and utterly delicious way to warm up any day, this Instant Pot Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe is a total game-changer. It combines tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and delicate cheese tortellini all simmered together in a flavorful broth that comes together faster than you’d expect. It’s simple, rich, and perfect for family dinners or when you want to impress friends with minimal fuss but maximum satisfaction.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this soup plays a star role, creating layers of flavor and texture that make this Instant Pot Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe unforgettable. From the fresh vegetables to the tender chicken and creamy touch at the end, these essentials work in harmony to deliver that comforting bowl you’ll want to dive into again and again.
- Olive oil: A splash of quality olive oil adds the perfect base for sautéing and brings subtle richness.
- Onion: Chopped onion provides sweetness and depth, forming a foundation for the broth.
- Celery: Adds fresh, crisp texture and a slight earthy flavor that balances the soup.
- Carrots: Sliced carrots bring natural sweetness and vibrant color to your bowl.
- Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the soup with aromatic warmth that’s hard to resist.
- Italian seasoning: A dash fills the soup with familiar herbaceous notes that make every spoonful sing.
- Chicken breasts: Tender chicken is the heart of the soup, offering protein and juicy flavor.
- Chicken broth or stock: The flavorful liquid base that pulls all the ingredients together.
- Water: Lightens the broth slightly and helps with perfect cooking pressure in the Instant Pot.
- Cheese tortellini: Refrigerated tortellini swells beautifully, adding a delightful soft bite to the hearty soup.
- Heavy cream (optional): Adds luscious creaminess that gently rounds off the flavors.
- Salt & pepper: Essential for balancing and enhancing every element in the soup.
How to Make Instant Pot Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by chopping your onions, celery, and carrots, and mincing the garlic. Having everything ready beforehand saves time and lets you enjoy the cooking process without scrambling. This prep is the invitation to the comforting meal ahead.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Hit that sauté button on your Instant Pot and warm up the olive oil. Toss in the onions and celery, cooking them for about 5 minutes while stirring occasionally until they soften and release their natural sweetness. This step unlocks a world of flavor, setting the tone for your soup.
Step 3: Add Remaining Ingredients and Pressure Cook
Next, add the carrots, garlic, Italian seasoning, chicken, chicken broth, and water straight into the pot. Secure the lid and make sure the pressure valve is set to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. This method tenderizes the chicken and cooks the veggies to just the right tenderness while marrying all those lovely flavors.
Step 4: Release Pressure and Prep for Tortellini
Once cooking is done, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, then carefully perform a quick release for any remaining pressure. When safe, open the lid. Your kitchen is already smelling incredible — almost ready for the final touches!
Step 5: Add Tortellini and Finish Soup
Switch the Instant Pot back to sauté, then remove the chicken to shred or chop it while you add the cheese tortellini (and heavy cream if you’re going for that extra creamy vibe). Cook the tortellini for about 5 minutes until tender. Finally, return the chicken to the pot, give everything a good stir, and season with salt, pepper, and even fresh parsley if you like. This step brings the soup into its irresistible final form.
How to Serve Instant Pot Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or basil are perfect to sprinkle on top, adding a pop of color and brightness. You can also grate some Parmesan cheese over the bowl for a salty, umami boost that makes each bite feel even more special.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs fantastically with crusty garlic bread or a simple side salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. The bread is great for dipping, while the salad offers a crisp contrast, helping balance the richness of the soup.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out mini bread bowls or individual ramekins topped with a swirl of cream and a sprinkle of herbs. It turns dinner into a delightful experience, perfect for impressing guests without extra fuss.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 3 days, and the flavors often deepen overnight, making the next bowl just as satisfying as the first.
Freezing
This soup freezes beautifully, too! Simply cool completely and transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags. Keep in mind the tortellini may soften a bit after freezing, so you might want to slightly undercook it if you plan to freeze your soup.
Reheating
Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of broth or water. Avoid reheating in the microwave in a rush to preserve the textures and flavors.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs add extra juiciness and flavor, and they cook perfectly in this Instant Pot Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe. Just use the same cooking time for tender results.
Is it necessary to use fresh tortellini?
Fresh refrigerated tortellini is ideal for quick cooking and great texture, but you can use frozen if needed. Just add a minute or two to the cooking time and keep an eye on the texture.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes! Simply omit the heavy cream or substitute it with a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream to keep the soup creamy without dairy.
How spicy is this soup?
This recipe is mild and family-friendly, but you can easily add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to bring some heat if you want to spice things up.
Can I prep this soup in advance?
You can chop your veggies and measure out ingredients ahead of time. The actual cooking is very quick in the Instant Pot, making it a convenient dish for busy days.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so incredibly satisfying about a bowl of homemade soup that warms both body and soul, and this Instant Pot Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe hits that mark every single time. Whether you’re feeding family or craving a solo comfort meal, it’s easy to make, nourishing, and packed with flavors you’ll want on repeat. Go ahead and try it — your kitchen and taste buds will thank you!
