Chicken Sausage Tortellini Soup: A Hearty, Healthy Comfort Dish

When you’re craving something comforting yet not overly heavy, Chicken Sausage Tortellini Soup hits the sweet spot.

It combines the hearty satisfaction of Italian tortellini with the light, savory flavor of chicken sausage, all bathed in a flavorful broth packed with vegetables and herbs.

This dish is more than just soup, it’s a complete meal in a bowl. It satisfies your hunger, nourishes your body, and warms your soul.

Whether you’re cooking for your family, prepping meals for the week, or looking to impress guests with minimal effort, this recipe has you covered.

Key Takeaway

• Chicken Sausage Tortellini Soup offers the warmth of comfort food with healthier ingredients and balanced macros.
• The recipe is flexible, easy to adapt for dietary preferences like gluten-free, dairy-free, low-carb, or vegetarian.
• It keeps well in the fridge for 3–4 days and tastes even better the next day. Just store the tortellini separately to avoid mushiness.

Why Chicken Sausage? A Healthier Protein Choice

Chicken sausage is a great alternative to traditional pork or beef sausage. It’s leaner, lower in saturated fat, and often contains fewer calories per serving. (1)

Yet, it still offers that savory, spiced flavor that makes sausage so delicious.

Many brands offer chicken sausage in flavors like garlic, herb, spinach & feta, or Italian-style, making them perfect for soup dishes like this.

If you’re watching your cholesterol or fat intake, opting for chicken sausage over traditional options is a smart and tasty swap.

Tortellini: The Pasta That Brings Comfort

Tortellini, a ring-shaped pasta typically stuffed with cheese, meat, or spinach, is a comfort food staple.

In soup, it provides chewiness and richness, soaking up the flavor of the broth while maintaining its soft, pillow-like bite.

For a health boost, you can opt for whole wheat tortellini or those stuffed with spinach and ricotta. Some grocery stores even carry gluten-free or vegan versions.

Health Benefits of Chicken Sausage Tortellini Soup

Chicken Sausage Tortellini Soup isn’t just a flavorful and comforting meal, it’s also packed with nutritional value.

Thanks to its smart ingredient combination, this dish offers several key health benefits that make it a wholesome choice for your diet.

Lean Protein

Chicken sausage is a much leaner protein source compared to traditional pork or beef sausage.

It contains significantly less saturated fat, making it a heart-smart and waistline-friendly alternative.

In addition to being low in fat, chicken sausage provides all essential amino acids, the building blocks your body needs for:

• Muscle growth and repair
• Immune function support
• Enzyme and hormone production
• Sustained energy levels

Including lean proteins like chicken sausage in your meals helps maintain muscle mass, especially important as we age or pursue an active lifestyle.

Vegetable-Powered Nutrition

This soup includes a nutrient-dense mix of vegetables: onions, carrots, spinach, and tomatoes.

Each contributes unique vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall wellness:

• Onions and carrots provide dietary fiber and compounds like quercetin and beta-carotene, which have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
• Spinach is loaded with vitamin K, iron, and folate, all vital for blood health and bone strength.
• Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to reduced risks of heart disease and certain cancers.

Together, these vegetables enhance the soup’s nutritional value while contributing depth of flavor and satisfying texture.

Filling and Satisfying

One of the best things about Chicken Sausage Tortellini Soup is how filling it is, thanks to the trio of:

• Lean protein (from chicken sausage)
• Fiber (from vegetables)
• Complex carbohydrates (from tortellini)

This combination helps:

• Slow down digestion
• Regulate blood sugar levels
• Prolong the feeling of fullness
• Curb unnecessary snacking

If you’re aiming for weight control or simply want to avoid afternoon hunger crashes, this soup can keep you satisfied for hours without overloading on calories.

Heart-Friendly

Many store-bought soups are loaded with salt and fatty meats.

This recipe, however, uses low-sodium chicken broth and lean chicken sausage, making it much gentler on your heart and blood pressure.

Here’s why it’s a heart-healthy choice:

• Low saturated fat reduces the risk of arterial plaque buildup.
• Low sodium helps maintain healthy blood pressure and fluid balance.
• Antioxidant-rich vegetables combat inflammation, a key factor in cardiovascular disease.

For even better heart health, choose chicken sausage that’s nitrate-free and minimally processed.

Ingredients: What You’ll Need

Here’s a simple, customizable ingredient list for Chicken Sausage Tortellini Soup:

Base Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2–3 chicken sausage links, sliced (Italian-style works best)
• 2 medium carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Additions:

• 1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
• 2 cups fresh spinach or kale
• Optional: red pepper flakes, parmesan, basil

Step-by-Step: How to Make Chicken Sausage Tortellini Soup

Credit by The Mediterranean Dish

Saute Aromatics and Sausage

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions and saute for 3-4 minutes until soft. (2)

Stir in garlic and cook another minute. Then, add the sliced chicken sausage and cook until lightly browned.

Add Vegetables and Broth

Add carrots and celery, and saute for a couple of minutes. Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes (with juice).

Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.

Simmer to Develop Flavor

Once boiling, reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

Add Tortellini

Add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions, usually 5–7 minutes. If using frozen tortellini, extend cook time slightly.

Finish with Greens

Stir in fresh spinach or kale and cook for another 2–3 minutes until wilted.

Serve

Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh basil or grated parmesan, and enjoy while hot.

Customizations and Variations

One of the greatest things about Chicken Sausage Tortellini Soup is how easy it is to customize.

Whether you’re following a specific diet, craving different flavors, or just using what you have in the fridge, here are expanded ways to tailor the recipe to your liking:

Creamy Version

If you’re in the mood for something ultra-cozy and indulgent, transform your soup into a creamy delight.

How to do it:

Stir in ½ to 1 cup of heavy cream, half-and-half, or coconut milk at the end of cooking. Let it simmer gently for 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly and absorb the flavor.

Optional extras:

• A handful of shredded parmesan or mozzarella for extra richness
• A dash of nutmeg for subtle warmth (especially good in creamy soups)

Tip

: If you want a lower-fat creamy version, try using unsweetened almond milk with a bit of cornstarch or cream cheese for texture.

Spicy Kick

Craving a little heat? Spice it up to balance the creamy tortellini and savory sausage.

How to do it:

• Use spicy chicken sausage ( jalapeno or Cajun-style)
• Add ½ teaspoon to 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne
• Stir in a chopped chipotle pepper in adobo for smoky heat

Optional toppings

:

A drizzle of chili oil, hot sauce, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika just before serving can add a flavorful edge.

Low-Carb/Keto

Watching your carbs? You can still enjoy a comforting bowl of soup without the tortellini.

How to do it:

Replace tortellini with:

• Zucchini noodles (zoodles)
• Cauliflower gnocchi (lightly sauteed before adding)
• Shirataki noodles (no-carb option, rinse well before using)
• Diced turnips or radishes for a potato-like texture

These substitutes provide body and bite without spiking carbs, making the soup perfect for low-carb, diabetic, or keto lifestyles.

Dairy-Free

Whether you’re lactose intolerant or eating plant-based, this soup can be made dairy-free with a few simple swaps.

How to do it:

• Use dairy-free tortellini (available at many specialty or plant-based grocers)
• Omit cheese toppings like parmesan or mozzarella
• Choose plant-based milk alternatives (like coconut milk or oat milk) if making a creamy version
• Pick vegan chicken sausage for a fully plant-based version

Flavor boost tip

: Add a splash of lemon juice or a spoonful of nutritional yeast at the end for umami depth.

Vegetable-Packed

Turn this soup into a veggie powerhouse by adding more produce, it’s a great way to use up leftovers or frozen veggies.

Great additions include:

• Zucchini (diced or spiralized)
• Mushrooms (sliced button, cremini, or shiitake)
• Peas or edamame for protein and sweetness
• Bell peppers (for crunch and vitamin C)
• Corn, green beans, or cabbage for texture

How to do it:

Add hardy veggies like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini early in the simmering process. Softer ones like peas and spinach can go in during the last few minutes.

This not only boosts nutritional content but also adds layers of texture and flavor that make every bite more exciting.

Conclusion

Chicken Sausage Tortellini Soup is more than just a seasonal favorite, it’s a go-to meal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or when you just need something cozy and nutritious.

With a flavorful broth, satisfying pasta, lean protein, and vibrant veggies, it checks all the boxes.

Whether you’re watching your diet or just want something comforting, this soup delivers comfort without the guilt. The best part? It’s easy to make, customizable, and absolutely delicious.

So grab a big pot, your favorite chicken sausage, and let this wholesome soup bring the kitchen and your stomach some serious joy.

FAQ

Can I freeze Chicken Sausage Tortellini Soup?

Yes, but for best results, freeze the soup without the tortellini. Add fresh tortellini when reheating to avoid mushy pasta.

What’s the best type of chicken sausage to use?

Italian-style chicken sausage (mild or spicy) works best. Look for varieties without nitrates and with low sodium for a healthier option.

How long does it last in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, the soup lasts 3–4 days. For best texture, store the tortellini separately if making ahead.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Absolutely! Use plant-based sausage or skip it entirely. You can add chickpeas or white beans for protein.

Is this soup good for weight loss?

Yes, especially if you control the tortellini portion or substitute it with a low-carb alternative like zucchini noodles. Chicken sausage is leaner than pork, making it a better protein choice.

What can I serve with this soup?

Serve it with crusty whole-grain bread, a simple side salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, but tortellini gives the best texture and richness. If substituting, use short pasta like rotini or orecchiette, and consider adding extra cheese or protein for balance.

References 

• https://www.themediterraneandish.com/tortellini-soup/
• https://sweetsavoryandsteph.com/tortellini-soup-with-chicken-sausage-and-spinach/

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