Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables begin to soften.
Stir in the minced garlic and dried thyme. Continue to sauté for another minute or until the garlic becomes fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the vegetables to become tender.
Add the refrigerated cheese tortellini to the simmering broth. Cook according to the package instructions, typically for about 4-6 minutes or until the tortellini float to the surface and are cooked through.
Stir in the shredded rotisserie chicken. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, ensuring the chicken is heated through.
Grate the zest from the lemon and squeeze its juice into the soup. This adds a refreshing citrusy flavor to the soup. Adjust the amount of lemon juice to your taste.
Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Remember that the rotisserie chicken and cheese tortellini can add some saltiness, so be cautious not to over-salt.
Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired for an extra burst of flavor and color.
Serve your Lemon Chicken Tortellini Soup hot, and savor the delightful combination of flavors. It's comforting, zesty, and perfect for a satisfying meal.
This easy-to-make soup is a crowd-pleaser and can be ready in under 30 minutes. It's a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of rotisserie chicken and the zing of lemon in a comforting bowl of goodness.