Whip up a hearty Instant Pot Chicken Tortellini Soup that combines tender chicken, creamy broth, and cheesy tortellini. This quick and easy one-pot recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting meal during colder months. Packed with wholesome vegetables and seasoned to perfection, this soup delivers flavor and nourishment in every bite. Customize with your favorite ingredients for a versatile dish that suits your preferences. Ideal for family dinners or meal prep, this Instant Pot soup is a time-saving option that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Ingredients

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
3 large chicken breasts (or 6 thighs)
4 cups chicken broth or stock
2 cups water
2 generous cups refrigerated cheese tortellini
1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
Salt & pepper, to taste

Instructions

Preparation

Chop all vegetables and prep the chicken.

Sauté Vegetables

Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode.
Heat olive oil, then add the chopped onion and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until softened.

Build the Base

Stir in the carrots, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning.
Add the chicken, chicken broth, and water to the pot.

Pressure Cook

Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to “sealing.”
Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes.
Once the timer ends, let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.

Final Steps

Open the lid and press the sauté button again.
Carefully remove the chicken and set aside. Add the tortellini to the soup base. If using, stir in the heavy cream.
While the tortellini cooks (about 5 minutes), shred or chop the chicken.
Return the chicken to the pot and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Convenient: The Instant Pot cuts down on cooking time while delivering bold flavors.
Family-Friendly: Cheese-filled tortellini and creamy broth make this soup a crowd-pleaser.
One-Pot Meal: Minimal cleanup with a complete meal in one pot.

Tips

Tortellini Timing: Add tortellini right before serving to prevent overcooking.
Creamy or Light: Skip the heavy cream for a lighter option or add more for extra richness.
Shredding Chicken: Use two forks or a stand mixer for quick shredding.

Variations and Substitutions

Protein Options: Swap chicken for turkey, sausage, or even shrimp.
Vegetables: Add spinach or kale during the last step for added nutrients.
Tortellini: Substitute with ravioli or your favorite pasta.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes! Increase the pressure cook time to 12 minutes.

Can this soup be made dairy-free?
Yes, simply omit the cream and use dairy-free tortellini.

How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Add a splash of broth when reheating.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a crusty loaf of garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.