CrockPot Chicken Tortellini Recipe

If you’ve been on the lookout for a comforting, hearty dish that practically cooks itself and delivers big on flavor, you’re going to fall head over heels for this CrockPot Chicken Tortellini. Imagine tender chicken breasts slow-cooked to perfection in a rich marinara sauce seasoned just right, then tossed with luscious cheese tortellini and a creamy mix of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. This is a dish that wraps up the cozy warmth of a home-cooked meal with minimal effort — perfect for weeknights or when you want to impress with little fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind this CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is in its simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a vital role, whether it’s bringing depth of flavor, creamy texture, or vibrant color to the dish.

• Olive oil spray: A quick spray to keep your slow cooker ready and prevent sticking without extra calories.
• 1 ½ lbs chicken breast: About 4 medium breasts provide tender, lean protein that shreds beautifully after slow cooking.
• 2 cups marinara sauce: Rich and tangy, it forms the flavorful base of the dish.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds aromatic depth without overpowering.
• 1 teaspoon onion granules: Mild sweetness that enhances the overall savory profile.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning mix: A classic blend that brings herbs like oregano and basil for an authentic Italian touch.
• ½ teaspoon paprika: Adds warmth and a subtle smoky flavor.
• ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes: A gentle kick of heat to lift the flavor just enough.
• 1 ½ cups chicken broth: Keeps the chicken moist and adds savory richness.
• 1 lb cheese tortellini: The star pasta, stuffed with creamy cheese, creating a wonderful contrast in textures.
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: Melts into gooey goodness that blends perfectly into the sauce.
• ½ cup heavy cream: Brings luscious creaminess that rounds out the acidity of the marinara.
• 2 cups baby spinach: Adds vibrant green color and a fresh, earthy bite at the end.
• ⅓ cup Parmesan cheese, grated: For a nutty, savory finish that ties every flavor together.

How to Make CrockPot Chicken Tortellini

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Start by giving your slow cooker a light spray with olive oil. This simple step not only prevents the casserole from sticking but also helps keep the flavors clean and easy to serve later.

Step 2: Layer the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a single, even layer at the bottom of the slow cooker. This ensures even cooking, allowing each piece to soak up all the delicious seasonings and sauce.

Step 3: Add the Sauces and Spices

Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken and sprinkle with garlic powder, onion granules, Italian seasoning, paprika, and red chili flakes. The combination of spices creates a vibrant base, packing the dish with layers of flavor.

Step 4: Slow Cook the Chicken

Cover the slow cooker and set it on LOW for about 4 hours. This slow and steady heat makes the chicken incredibly tender, perfect for shredding.

Step 5: Shred the Chicken

Once your chicken is cooked through, use two forks to shred it directly in the slow cooker. The meat will be juicy and ready to absorb more flavor as you combine with the sauce.

Step 6: Mix the Chicken Back Into the Sauce

Stir the shredded chicken back into the saucy mixture, getting every bite coated with the wonderful blend of herbs and spices.

Step 7: Add Tortellini, Cheese, and Cream

Next, toss in the cheese tortellini, shredded mozzarella, and heavy cream. Give everything a good stir so that the tortellini starts soaking up that creamy, cheesy goodness evenly.

Step 8: Continue Cooking

Return the slow cooker to LOW and cook for an additional 30 minutes. This gives the tortellini just the right amount of time to become tender yet maintain its shape.

Step 9: Incorporate Fresh Spinach

Stir in the baby spinach and let it cook for another 10 minutes. The spinach wilts perfectly, adding freshness and balancing the creaminess of the dish.

Step 10: Finish with Parmesan and Final Seasoning

Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top, give the whole dish a last stir, then taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. This brings all the ingredients together in perfect harmony.

How to Serve CrockPot Chicken Tortellini

Garnishes

Adding a few fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of chopped parsley on top just before serving brings color and a fresh herbal aroma that complements the cheesy richness beautifully.

Side Dishes

This dish is so hearty on its own, but pairing it with a crisp, lightly dressed green salad or some garlic bread can round out the meal for a complete Italian-inspired feast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the CrockPot Chicken Tortellini in individual ramekins topped with a little extra Parmesan and broil until golden and bubbly. It’s a great way to add a cozy, elegant touch for dinner guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover CrockPot Chicken Tortellini in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days without losing its tender texture or rich flavor.

Freezing

This dish freezes well, too. Freeze in portioned containers for up to 2 months, making it easy to enjoy your favorite CrockPot Chicken Tortellini anytime you’re craving a hearty, satisfying meal.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. If the sauce is a bit thick after refrigeration, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive its creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to increase the cooking time by at least an hour to ensure the chicken cooks through completely.

Is it possible to use fresh tortellini instead of frozen or refrigerated?

Absolutely! Fresh tortellini will cook even faster, so keep an eye on it and add it towards the last 20 to 25 minutes of cooking to avoid overcooking.

Can I make this recipe spicy?

Definitely. You can increase the red chili flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the marinara base for a spicier kick to your CrockPot Chicken Tortellini.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even full-fat coconut milk, but keep in mind this will slightly change the flavor and creaminess.

How do I keep the tortellini from getting mushy?

Adding the tortellini later in the cooking process, as instructed, helps keep it tender but firm. Overcooking is the main reason for mushy pasta, so timing is key.

Final Thoughts

I cannot recommend this CrockPot Chicken Tortellini enough for anyone craving a fuss-free, soul-warming dinner. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a big, warm hug at the end of the day, and the flavors only get better when you share it with friends or family. Trust me, once you try this, it will become a staple in your meal rotation season after season.

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