Instant Pot Chicken Tortellini Soup with Spinach

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Instant Pot Chicken Tortellini Soup with Spinach: Quick and Comforting

Introduction

Warm, hearty, and bursting with flavor, Instant Pot Chicken Tortellini Soup with Spinach is the ultimate weeknight comfort meal. Tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and fresh spinach come together in a savory broth, creating a dish that is both satisfying and nourishing. Using an Instant Pot allows you to develop deep flavors in a fraction of the time, making it perfect for busy families or anyone craving a cozy bowl of soup in under an hour.

This soup is not only delicious but also versatile. The cheesy tortellini adds indulgence, while lean chicken and fresh spinach provide protein and vitamins. It’s a balanced meal that combines convenience, comfort, and nutrition, making it ideal for a quick lunch, dinner, or even meal prep. The combination of herbs, vegetables, and pasta ensures each spoonful is flavorful, warming, and satisfying.

Whether served as a main course or paired with a fresh side salad or crusty bread, this Instant Pot Chicken Tortellini Soup is guaranteed to become a family favorite.

Background and Inspiration

Chicken tortellini soup is a modern twist on classic Italian soups, blending rich broths with filled pasta for extra heartiness. Traditionally, Italian soups incorporate fresh herbs, seasonal vegetables, and sometimes small pasta shapes for texture and substance. Using an Instant Pot allows home cooks to achieve restaurant-quality flavors quickly while infusing the broth with the essence of chicken, herbs, and vegetables.

The addition of spinach provides a pop of color and nutrition, while the cheesy tortellini adds a satisfying texture that pairs beautifully with the tender chicken. This soup is inspired by the Italian tradition of comfort soups but adapted for modern, busy kitchens.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and convenient: Ready in under 45 minutes using an Instant Pot.
  • Hearty and filling: Chicken, tortellini, and vegetables make it a complete meal.
  • Nutrient-rich: Spinach adds vitamins, iron, and color.
  • Family-friendly: Mild flavors appeal to all ages.
  • Customizable: Easily swap tortellini for other pasta shapes or add extra vegetables.

Ingredients & Equipment

For the Soup

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1 pound (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 package (9–12 oz / 250–340 g) refrigerated or frozen cheese tortellini
  • 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
  • Optional: crushed red pepper flakes for mild heat

Equipment

  • Instant Pot or electric pressure cooker
  • Wooden spoon
  • Ladle for serving
  • Knife and cutting board

Pro Tips:

  • Use frozen tortellini directly; no need to thaw.
  • Adjust spinach amount based on preference.
  • For extra flavor, sauté vegetables in the Instant Pot before pressure cooking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Heat olive oil and add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook 3–5 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Step 2: Add Chicken and Broth

Stir in chicken pieces, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Pour in chicken broth and mix well.

Step 3: Pressure Cook

Close the Instant Pot lid and seal the valve. Set to high pressure for 8 minutes. Once cooking is complete, perform a quick release carefully.

Step 4: Add Tortellini and Spinach

Switch back to sauté mode and add tortellini and spinach. Cook for 3–5 minutes until tortellini is tender and spinach is wilted.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Ladle into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan and optional crushed red pepper flakes.

Expert Tips & Troubleshooting

  • Soup too thick? Add extra chicken broth or water to reach desired consistency.
  • Tortellini overcooked? Add tortellini after pressure cooking to prevent mushiness.
  • Chicken dry? Cut into bite-sized pieces and cook just until done; pressure cooking ensures tenderness.
  • Flavor boost: Stir in fresh herbs like parsley or basil before serving.
  • Make-ahead tip: Prepare soup base in advance and cook tortellini and spinach when ready to serve.

Variations & Customizations

  • Vegetarian option: Use vegetable broth and replace chicken with beans or tofu.
  • Extra vegetables: Add zucchini, peas, or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
  • Cheesy twist: Stir in shredded mozzarella or Asiago cheese for richer flavor.
  • Spicy version: Add diced jalapeño or chili flakes to taste.
  • Pasta alternatives: Substitute tortellini with ravioli, mini shells, or farfalle.

Serving & Presentation Ideas

Serve Instant Pot Chicken Tortellini Soup in wide bowls with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a dash of freshly cracked black pepper. Pair with garlic bread, a crisp side salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

The vibrant colors of the spinach, carrots, and tortellini make the soup visually appealing, while the warm, aromatic broth fills the kitchen with comforting scents. It’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or a cozy solo lunch.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

  • Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze: Not recommended with tortellini; cook pasta fresh when reheating.
  • Reheat: Gently warm on the stovetop and add a splash of broth if needed.
  • Prep in advance: Chop vegetables and chicken in advance for faster assembly.

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but increase pressure cooking time slightly to ensure it’s fully cooked.

Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free tortellini or pasta alternatives.

Can I add more greens?
Absolutely. Kale, Swiss chard, or arugula work well in addition to spinach.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Chicken Tortellini Soup with Spinach is a comforting, flavorful, and nutritious meal that comes together quickly. Tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and vibrant spinach create a balanced and satisfying bowl that the whole family will love.

Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or cozy lunches, this soup offers convenience without sacrificing taste. Each spoonful is hearty, aromatic, and packed with wholesome ingredients, making it a go-to recipe for busy kitchens and hungry appetites alike.

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