Chicken Tortellini Soup

First, be sure to buy a plain rotisserie chicken. Check the packaging. Don’t be like me and accidentally pick up a BBQ seasoned chicken, and have to go back to the store for the one you actually wanted.

Place the rotisserie chicken in a large heavy-bottomed pot and pour in the carton of chicken broth. Cover the pot and simmer until the chicken is thoroughly heated and begins to fall apart (approximately 30 minutes, since the rotisserie chicken is already cooked).

Using a slotted spoon, remove the chicken from the broth, set it on a cutting board and allow it to cool some (until you can chop it without burning yourself). Strain the chicken broth to remove any kibbles and bits and return it to the pot. If needed, add a cup or two of water to create more broth. (This may be necessary if your broth simmers too long and/or reduces too quickly.)

Over medium heat, bring the broth back to a simmer. Add the onion, garlic, tomatoes (juice and all) and the seasonings. If you like a little spice, throw in that pinch of red pepper flakes.

While that simmers, de-bone the chicken and chop it into bite-size pieces. If you’re feeding a crowd, use all of the chopped chicken. If you’re not, use half the chicken and save the rest for chicken salad tomorrow night. Return the chopped chicken to the pot. Add the spinach and tortellini. Simmer for an additional 15 minutes. Taste to see if it needs additional salt and pepper. I also like to taste one of the tortellini to make sure they’re done. If you like your soup on the thicker side, combine 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and whisk until smooth; then stir it into the soup.

To serve, spoon into bowls and top with chopped parsley and grated parmesan cheese. A great loaf of crusty bread is the perfect side to this soup.

Substitutions:
– This soup can be made with beef broth and ground beef.
– You can use cheese, spinach, or meat tortellini—your choice.
– Mini-ravioli can be substituted for the tortellini.
– The tomatoes can be omitted for a clear broth (great for colds).
– Substitute the pasta of your choosing for the tortellini.
– Substitute browned Italian sausage for chicken or beef.
– Use fresh spinach, kale or other favorite greens instead of frozen.