Chicken Tortellini Soup with Fried Chicken Skin

This Chicken Tortellini Soup with Fried Chicken Skin is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings together tender tortellini, succulent rotisserie chicken, and a medley of fresh vegetables. Simmered to perfection in a rich chicken broth, this quick and easy recipe is ideal for busy weeknights.

The addition of creamy half-and-half adds a luscious texture, while crispy fried chicken skin provides a delightful crunch on top. Garnished with fresh parsley, this hearty soup is sure to warm your soul and satisfy your cravings!

Chicken Tortellini Soup with Fried Chicken Skin

Ingredients:

For the Soup:

4 cups chicken broth

8 oz mushrooms, sliced

2 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded

1 cup frozen peas

2 cups Swiss chard, chopped

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 package (9-12 oz) cheese tortellini

1 cup half-and-half

For the Topping:

Fried chicken skin (from the rotisserie chicken)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

Prepare the Base:

In a crockpot, combine the chicken broth, sliced mushrooms, shredded rotisserie chicken, frozen peas, chopped Swiss chard, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Simmer:

Set the crockpot on high and let the mixture simmer for about 4 hours. This will allow the flavors to meld and the vegetables to become tender.

Add Tortellini:

After 4 hours, stir in the cheese tortellini and let it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the tortellini are cooked through.

Creamy Finish:

Stir in the half-and-half and heat until warmed through, about 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serve:

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crispy fried chicken skin and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

Enjoy:

Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of this hearty chicken tortellini soup!

Tips:

Feel free to customize this soup by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs!

Notes:

Broth Options: For a richer flavor, consider using homemade chicken stock if you have it. Low-sodium chicken broth can help control the saltiness of the dish.

Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables such as carrots, celery, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them to the crockpot.

Tortellini Choice: Use fresh or frozen cheese tortellini. Cooking times may vary, so check the package instructions for the best results.

Rotisserie Chicken: Using rotisserie chicken saves time, but you can also poach chicken breasts or thighs if you prefer. Shred the cooked chicken before adding it to the soup.

Cream Alternatives: For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half with milk or a non-dairy alternative like almond milk or coconut milk. Keep in mind this may alter the creaminess.

Storage: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The tortellini may absorb some liquid, so add a bit of broth when reheating if needed.

Freezing: While this soup can be frozen, the texture of the tortellini may change upon thawing. Consider freezing the soup without the tortellini and adding them fresh when you reheat.

Garnishing: Customize your toppings by adding grated Parmesan cheese, a drizzle of olive oil, or even crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 6 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use homemade chicken stock instead of broth?

Absolutely! Homemade chicken stock will add even more flavor and richness to the soup.

Just make sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly.

What if I don’t have Swiss chard?

If you don’t have Swiss chard, you can substitute it with other leafy greens like spinach, kale, or even collard greens.

Just adjust the cooking time if needed, as some greens may cook faster.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the soup in advance. It will taste even better the next day as the flavors meld.

Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

You may need to add a bit of broth when reheating, as the tortellini can absorb liquid.

Can I freeze this soup?

While the soup can be frozen, the texture of the tortellini may change after thawing.

It’s best to freeze the soup base without the tortellini, then add fresh tortellini when you reheat it.

How do I ensure the tortellini is cooked properly?

Follow the package instructions for cooking times, usually around 3-5 minutes for fresh tortellini.

Add them to the soup during the last few minutes of cooking to avoid overcooking.

Can I use uncooked chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?

Yes, you can use uncooked chicken. Just dice it and sauté it in the pot before adding the broth and other ingredients.

Make sure it is cooked through before adding the tortellini.

What if I want a thicker soup?

If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a slurry of cornstarch and water or blend a portion of the soup to create a creamier texture.

Alternatively, reduce the amount of broth used.

Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes, frozen tortellini works well in this soup.

Just add them directly to the pot without thawing; they may require a minute or two longer to cook.

What should I do if I don’t have Italian seasoning?

If you don’t have Italian seasoning, you can create your own blend using dried herbs like basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary.

Adjust the amounts to taste, starting with 1/2 teaspoon of each herb.