If you’re craving a cozy, comforting meal that comes together quickly and bursts with flavor, this Instant Pot Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe is your new best friend. It combines tender chunks of chicken, perfectly cooked cheese tortellini, and a vibrant mix of fresh vegetables all simmered in a savory broth. What makes this soup truly special is how effortlessly the Instant Pot brings all these flavors together while keeping the chicken juicy and the vegetables crisp. Whether you’re looking for a speedy weeknight dinner or a satisfying dish to warm you up on chilly days, this soup hits all the right notes with minimal fuss and maximum taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Instant Pot Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe is thoughtfully chosen to build layers of flavor and achieve the perfect balance between hearty and light. From the aromatic veggies to the creamy tortellini, every component plays a crucial role in making the soup as delicious as it is comforting.
- Olive oil: Adds a rich, fruity base for sautéing the vegetables and infuses the soup with mild Mediterranean flavor.
- Onion: Provides a sweet and savory foundation that enhances the overall depth of the broth.
- Celery: Offers a subtle crunch and fresh earthiness to contrast the tender chicken and soft tortellini.
- Carrots: Bring a natural sweetness and vibrant color to brighten up the soup visually and taste-wise.
- Garlic: Delivers aromatic warmth that makes the whole soup irresistibly savory.
- Italian seasoning: A perfect blend of herbs that infuses the dish with classic Italian flavors.
- Chicken breasts (or thighs): The heart of the soup, providing juicy, protein-packed pieces that soak up all the delicious broth.
- Chicken broth or stock: The flavorful liquid base that ties all the ingredients together in a savory harmony.
- Water: Balances the broth strength and ensures the soup isn’t too heavy.
- Refrigerated cheese tortellini: Adds comforting, cheesy pockets that soak up the broth, making every bite delightful.
- Heavy cream (optional): Adds a velvety richness and smooth texture that takes the soup to a whole new level of comfort.
- Salt & pepper: Essential for seasoning to bring out the full spectrum of flavors.
How to Make Instant Pot Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Before diving in, get all your vegetables chopped, garlic minced, and chicken ready to go. This quick prep will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable, so you can focus on the flavors unfolding in your Instant Pot.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetable Base
Start by heating olive oil in your Instant Pot on the sauté setting. Add the chopped onion and celery, cooking for about 5 minutes until they soften and develop a sweet aroma. This step builds a flavorful foundation that makes the soup so comforting and satisfying.
Step 3: Build the Soup with Broth and Chicken
Next, toss in the carrots, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and your chicken breasts. Pour in the chicken broth and water, then seal the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes to meld the flavors and cook the chicken to tender perfection.
Step 4: Natural and Quick Pressure Release
After cooking, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes. This gentle letdown helps keep the chicken juicy. Then, carefully switch to quick release for the remaining pressure before opening the lid. Your kitchen will be filled with irresistible soup aromas.
Step 5: Finish Cooking with Tortellini and Cream
Press the sauté button again and remove the chicken to shred or chop it while the cheese tortellini cooks in the broth—this only takes about 5 minutes. If you’re using heavy cream, stir it in now to create a luscious texture. Return the chicken to the pot and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. If you like, sprinkle in fresh parsley for a final flavor and color boost.
How to Serve Instant Pot Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or basil add a burst of brightness that complements the richness of this soup. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top creates an extra layer of indulgence. If you love a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes will awaken your taste buds beautifully.
Side Dishes
This soup shines as a full meal on its own, but pairing it with crusty garlic bread or warm focaccia makes the experience even more special. A simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or a crisp Caesar salad can provide refreshing contrast as well.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this Instant Pot Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe in rustic bread bowls for a charming, edible container that’s fun and cozy. For a crowd, offer individual bowls with a topping station featuring shredded cheese, herbs, and crunchy croutons to customize each serving.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the tortellini in the broth to prevent it from drying out, but beware that tortellini may absorb some liquid and soften further as it sits.
Freezing
This soup freezes well, but for best texture, freeze it before adding the tortellini or cream. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and cook the tortellini fresh before serving. The chicken and veggies retain their flavors perfectly through freezing.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat to keep the soup warm without overcooking the pasta. If the soup has thickened too much, add a splash of broth or water to loosen the consistency and bring back that perfect soup balance.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this soup?
Yes! You can use frozen chicken breasts or thighs directly in the Instant Pot. Just increase the cooking time by a few minutes to ensure the chicken cooks through properly.
What if I don’t have refrigerated tortellini?
Frozen tortellini is an excellent substitute and cooks in about the same amount of time. Avoid using dried tortellini, as it requires a longer cooking time and may not cook evenly in the Instant Pot.
Is the heavy cream necessary?
The cream is optional but highly recommended if you want a richer, more velvety soup. If you prefer a lighter version, you can skip it or substitute with half-and-half or coconut milk.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, swap the chicken for hearty vegetables like mushrooms or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Keep the tortellini cheese-filled or opt for vegan tortellini varieties.
How spicy is this soup?
This recipe is mild and family-friendly, but you can easily add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to kick up the heat to your liking.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a soup that feels like a warm hug on a busy day, and the Instant Pot Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe delivers exactly that every time. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavors that feel like home. I can’t recommend enough giving this recipe a try—once you do, it just might become your go-to comfort meal when you want something nourishing and effortless. Grab your Instant Pot, and let’s get cooking!
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Instant Pot Chicken Tortellini Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Instant Pot Chicken Tortellini Soup is a comforting and hearty meal perfect for busy weeknights. Combining tender chicken breasts, fresh vegetables, and cheesy tortellini, all cooked quickly under pressure, this soup offers rich flavors and a creamy texture with minimal effort. The use of the Instant Pot ensures the soup cooks quickly while melding the ingredients beautifully.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 large onion, chopped
- 3 sticks celery, chopped
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 dashes Italian seasoning
Protein and Liquids
- 3 large chicken breasts (or 6 thighs)
- 4 cups chicken broth or stock
- 2 cups water
Pasta and Finishing Touches
- 2 generous cups refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, or to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Gather and chop the onion, celery, carrots, and garlic, and have all other ingredients ready for use in the Instant Pot.
- Sauté Aromatics: Turn on the Instant Pot by pressing the sauté button. Add olive oil, onion, and celery to the pot and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
- Add Remaining Ingredients and Pressure Cook: Add carrots, garlic, Italian seasoning, whole chicken breasts, chicken broth, and water to the Instant Pot. Secure the lid and ensure the valve is set to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes.
- Release Pressure: After the cooking time finishes, allow the Instant Pot to release pressure naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release the remaining pressure carefully by turning the valve to venting. Remove the lid once it’s safe.
- Cook Tortellini and Finish Soup: Press the sauté button again. Remove the cooked chicken breasts to a bowl and add the tortellini and heavy cream (if using) to the pot. Cook the tortellini for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender. Meanwhile, shred or cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Then, add the shredded chicken back to the soup. Season with salt and pepper to taste and optionally stir in fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Using chicken thighs instead of breasts will yield a slightly richer flavor and more tender texture.
- Refrigerated cheese tortellini cooks quickly; avoid overcooking to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Heavy cream is optional but adds a lovely creaminess to the soup.
- Fresh parsley is a great garnish that adds freshness and color.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to personal preference and broth saltiness.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
