Ret Soup
Introduction
Experience the warmth and comfort of a bowl of Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup. This delightful dish brings together tender chicken, rich vegetables, and cheesy tortellini in a velvety broth, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. With the Instant Pot, you can whip up this comforting soup in no time, turning busy weeknights into moments of culinary delight.
Ingredients
500g chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
1 tablespoon olive oil (15ml)
150g onion, diced
150g carrots, sliced
100g celery, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (2g)
1/2 teaspoon salt (3g)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper (1g)
1 liter chicken broth (1000ml)
1 can evaporated milk (354ml)
250g cheese tortellini
100g fresh spinach
50g grated Parmesan cheese
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
This Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup is not only easy to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser for family dinners. Serve it hot and savor the delicious blend of flavors with each comforting spoonful. Enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Sauté Vegetables
Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once heated, add 150g diced onion, 150g sliced carrots, and 100g sliced celery. Sauté for about 3 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
Step 2: Add Garlic
Add 2 cloves minced garlic to the pot and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add 500g chicken breasts, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1 liter of chicken broth to the Instant Pot. Stir to combine all ingredients.
Step 4: Pressure Cook
Seal the lid on the Instant Pot. Cook on manual high pressure for 10 minutes. When finished, perform a quick release of pressure.
Step 5: Shred Chicken
Once the pressure is released, remove the chicken breasts from the pot. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and return it to the pot.
Step 6: Add Tortellini and Milk
Set the Instant Pot back to sauté mode. Add 1 can of evaporated milk and 250g cheese tortellini. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the tortellini is tender.
Step 7: Add Spinach and Parmesan
Stir in 100g fresh spinach and 50g grated Parmesan cheese, allowing the spinach to wilt slightly in the heat. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 8: Serve
Serve the soup hot and enjoy the creamy deliciousness in every bite.
Notes
Storage
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
This soup can be frozen, but the texture of the tortellini may change upon reheating. It is best to freeze the soup without the tortellini and add fresh tortellini when reheating.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use rotisserie chicken as a time-saver. Substitute evaporated milk with heavy cream for a richer soup.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Adjusting Creaminess
For a creamier texture, you can add more evaporated milk or a splash of cream just before serving.
Storage Instructions
To store leftover creamy chicken tortellini soup, allow it to cool to room temperature. Transfer the soup to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When reheating, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen, and heat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. Note that the tortellini may become softer upon reheating, so it is best consumed fresh.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the creamy chicken tortellini soup with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping. A fresh green salad drizzled with vinaigrette makes a great accompaniment. For an added touch, garnish the soup with extra grated Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs like parsley or basil, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a mild kick. This soup can also be enjoyed as a main dish or served as a hearty starter.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of creamy chicken tortellini soup (1/6 of the recipe) contains approximately:
– Calories: 410
– Protein: 34g
– Fat: 17g
– Carbohydrates: 36g
– Fiber: 2g
– Sugar: 3g
The nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes. This soup is a good source of protein and contains essential vitamins and minerals from the vegetables and spinach.
Ingredient Substitutions
– Chicken: Substitute chicken breasts with shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked turkey for a faster option.
– Olive Oil: Use butter or avocado oil instead of olive oil for different flavor profiles.
– Vegetables: Swap carrots, celery, or onion with other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or frozen mixed vegetables.
– Chicken Broth: Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version or homemade broth for enhanced flavor.
– Evaporated Milk: Heavy cream or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk can be used instead of evaporated milk for a creamier texture.
– Tortellini: Substitute with mini ravioli or any pasta of your choice. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free tortellini or pasta.
– Spinach: Kale or Swiss chard can replace fresh spinach for a different texture and flavor.
Cook Techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing is a cooking method that involves cooking food quickly in a small amount of oil over relatively high heat. In this recipe, the vegetables are sautéed first to enhance their flavors and add depth to the soup.
Pressure Cooking
Pressure cooking uses steam pressure to cook food quickly. In this recipe, the chicken and broth are cooked at high pressure to ensure the chicken becomes tender and infused with flavors in just 10 minutes.
Shredding
Shredding involves pulling apart cooked meat into smaller, more manageable pieces. After cooking, the chicken breasts are shredded using two forks to easily incorporate them back into the soup.
Simmering
Simmering is cooking food gently just below boiling point. After adding tortellini and evaporated milk, the soup is simmered to allow the pasta to cook through without becoming mushy.
Stirring in Greens
Stirring in fresh greens towards the end of cooking preserves their color and nutrients. In this recipe, spinach is added last to wilt slightly and maintain its vibrant color and texture.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just increase the cooking time to 12-15 minutes, and ensure they are cooked through before shredding.
Can I substitute the tortellini with another pasta?
Yes, you can use other types of pasta, but cooking times may vary. Make sure to adjust accordingly to avoid overcooking.
How can I make this soup healthier?
You can use low-fat evaporated milk and add more vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, to increase the nutritional value.
Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, this soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread, a side salad, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Conclusion
This Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, nutritious vegetables, and cheesy tortellini in a rich, creamy broth. Whether enjoyed on a chilly night or served at a cozy family gathering, it promises comfort and satisfaction in every spoonful. Quick to prepare and full of flavor, it’s an excellent choice for busy weeknights or whenever you crave something hearty and delicious.
Spinach and Mushroom Tortellini Soup
Add sautéed mushrooms to the original recipe for an earthier flavor. The combination of spinach and mushrooms creates a rich and satisfying soup that’s perfect for mushroom lovers.
Chicken and Broccoli Tortellini Soup
Incorporate chopped broccoli florets into the original recipe for added nutrition and crunch. This version brings a delightful texture and taste, making the soup even more hearty.
Tomato Basil Tortellini Soup
Replace the evaporated milk with crushed tomatoes and add fresh basil for a bright, tangy twist. This will give the soup a refreshing flavor and a beautiful red color.
Italian Sausage and Kale Tortellini Soup
Swap out the chicken for Italian sausage and add kale instead of spinach. The sausage adds a spicy kick, while the kale contributes additional nutrients.
Cheesy Broccoli and Chicken Tortellini Soup
Incorporate a handful of shredded cheddar cheese into the original recipe to elevate the cheesy flavor even further, making it a real treat for cheese lovers.
