CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is a cozy, comforting dish that sets the stage for family meals or busy weeknights. Imagine returning home after a long day to the warm, inviting aroma of savory chicken, hearty tortellini, and rich marinara sauce filling your kitchen. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it recipe that combines the goodness of chicken and pasta, making it an instant favorite, especially among kids. Plus, it’s loaded with gooey mozzarella and creamy details that make every bite delicious!
Why you’ll love this dish
This recipe truly excels in simplicity and flavor, which is why I think you’ll want to add it to your meal rotation. First off, it’s a one-pot wonder—minimal cleanup is always a win. But more importantly, it’s versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re entertaining friends at a casual dinner or feeding the family on a hectic weekday, CrockPot Chicken Tortellini delivers satisfaction every time.
“A crowd-pleaser at our family gatherings! Easy to make and absolutely delicious; everyone asks for seconds!” – Happy home cook
Step-by-step overview
Making CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is straightforward and rewarding. You’ll start by searing your chicken in the slow cooker, adding a medley of flavors with marinara and spices, and then layering in the tortellini and cream to create a rich, velvety dish. It’s like a warm hug on a plate!
Here’s what you need to gather.
What you’ll need
- Olive oil spray
- 1 ½ lbs chicken breast (about 4 medium breasts)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion granules
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning mix
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 lb cheese tortellini
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 cups baby spinach
- ⅓ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
You can easily substitute chicken with turkey or use vegetable broth for a lighter version.
Step-by-step instructions
- Start by spraying the slow cooker with olive oil. This helps prevent sticking.
- Place the chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom.
- Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken, followed by garlic powder, onion granules, Italian seasoning, paprika, and red chili flakes. Make sure everything is well coated!
- Cover and set your slow cooker to LOW for about 4 hours.
- After cooking, shred the chicken using two forks, mixing it back into the sauce.
- Stir in the tortellini, mozzarella cheese, and heavy cream. Mix thoroughly until combined.
- Cook on LOW for an additional 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Add the baby spinach and let it wilt for about 10 more minutes.
- Finally, sprinkle in the grated Parmesan, taste, and adjust any seasonings to your liking.
Best ways to enjoy it
This dish pairs beautifully with a light side salad or some garlic bread to soak up that rich sauce. If you want to keep it fresh, consider serving it alongside roasted veggies for a perfect balance of textures and flavors. A sprinkle of fresh herbs can really elevate the presentation, making it both eye-catching and appetizing.
Storage and reheating tips
Storing leftovers? Place them in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags. To reheat, defrost overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stove, stirring occasionally—this prevents the tortellini from getting too mushy.
Helpful cooking tips
Here are a few pointers to elevate your CrockPot Chicken Tortellini experience:
- Consider browning the chicken first in a skillet for a deeper flavor profile.
- If you love spice, try adding more red chili flakes or even a dash of hot sauce.
- Experiment by adding your favorite vegetables, like bell peppers or mushrooms, for extra nutrients.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Here are some delicious variations to try:
- Swap marinara for alfredo sauce for a creamy twist.
- Use spinach and ricotta tortellini for extra cheesy goodness.
- For a dietary swap, opt for whole wheat tortellini or gluten-free pasta.
Common questions
What is the prep time for this recipe?
Prep time is about 10-15 minutes, making it a quick option for busy days.
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Absolutely! There’s no need to thaw; just toss them in directly. They’ll cook perfectly in the slow cooker.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
You can lighten the dish by using skinless chicken breasts, low-fat cream, and reducing the amount of cheese.
With its creamy texture and delightful flavors, CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a family meal or simply savoring a cozy night in, this recipe promises to warm your heart and your home. Enjoy!
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CrockPot Chicken Tortellini
- Total Time: 255 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Paleo
Description
A cozy, comforting dish featuring chicken, tortellini, and marinara sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- Olive oil spray
- 1 ½ lbs chicken breast (about 4 medium breasts)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion granules
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning mix
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 lb cheese tortellini
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 cups baby spinach
- ⅓ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions
- Spray the slow cooker with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Place the chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom.
- Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken and add garlic powder, onion granules, Italian seasoning, paprika, and red chili flakes. Ensure everything is well coated.
- Cover and set the slow cooker to LOW for about 4 hours.
- After cooking, shred the chicken using two forks and mix it back into the sauce.
- Stir in the tortellini, mozzarella cheese, and heavy cream until combined.
- Cook on LOW for an additional 30 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Add the baby spinach and let it wilt for about 10 minutes.
- Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan, taste, and adjust seasonings as desired.
Notes
Pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread; can also add veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for more nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 240 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg