CrockPot Chicken Tortellini Recipe

If you have been searching for a dish that is both comforting and effortless, let me introduce you to the savory magic of CrockPot Chicken Tortellini. This recipe brings together tender chicken, creamy cheese tortellini, and a luscious marinara sauce, all slow-cooked to perfection, filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day, and best of all, it requires minimal hands-on time so you can let your CrockPot work its charm while you relax or tackle your to-do list.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple ingredients come together to create an incredibly rich and savory flavor profile. Each component plays its part, from the aromatic Italian herbs to the creamy cheeses that add velvety texture and depth to the dish.

• Olive oil spray: Prevents sticking in your slow cooker and adds a light hint of fruity richness.
• 1 ½ lbs chicken breast (about 4 medium breasts): The lean protein base, which becomes tender and shreddable after slow cooking.
• 2 cups marinara sauce: This tomato-based sauce infuses the chicken with vibrant flavor and a touch of sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a warm, savory undertone without overpowering the dish.
• 1 teaspoon onion granules: Enhances the aroma and depth of flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning mix: A fragrant blend of herbs that gives the dish an authentic Italian vibe.
• ½ teaspoon paprika: Adds mild smokiness and subtle color.
• ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes: Offers a slight kick, perfectly balancing the creaminess.
• 1 ½ cups chicken broth: Keeps everything moist and helps meld the flavors together.
• 1 lb cheese tortellini: The star pasta, with pockets of creamy cheese that soak up the sauce beautifully.
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: Melts into gooey pockets of lusciousness throughout the dish.
• ½ cup heavy cream: Provides a silky finish and rich mouthfeel.
• 2 cups baby spinach: Adds a fresh, green contrast, plus a boost of nutrients.
• ⅓ cup Parmesan cheese, grated: The perfect finishing touch with its sharp, nutty flavor.

How to Make CrockPot Chicken Tortellini

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker Base

Begin by spraying your slow cooker with olive oil spray to keep everything from sticking later on. Place the chicken breasts in a single layer for even cooking. Pour over the marinara sauce and sprinkle with garlic powder, onion granules, Italian seasoning, paprika, and red chili flakes. These spices will create a beautiful depth of flavor that infuses the chicken as it slowly cooks.

Step 2: Slow Cook the Chicken

Cover the crockpot and set it to LOW. Let the chicken cook gently for about 4 hours, allowing it to become irresistibly tender. This low-and-slow cooking method breaks down the meat fibers, ensuring every bite is juicy and perfect for shredding.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken and Mix

Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken right in the crockpot. This step transforms the dish into a cozy, unified mixture. Stir the shredded chicken well into the sauce, making sure it’s evenly coated for each mouthful.

Step 4: Add Tortellini and Creamy Cheeses

Next, add the cheese tortellini, shredded mozzarella, and heavy cream to the crockpot. Give everything a thorough stir to combine the creamy and cheesy elements with the savory sauce. Continue cooking on LOW for another 30 minutes, which lets the tortellini cook through perfectly, soaking up all those fantastic flavors.

Step 5: Incorporate Spinach and Finish

Stir in the baby spinach and cook for an additional 10 minutes. The spinach wilts gently, adding a fresh touch and colorful vibrancy to your dish. Finally, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed—this cheese adds that signature salty punch and complexity.

How to Serve CrockPot Chicken Tortellini

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh basil or chopped parsley makes a gorgeous garnish, bringing a burst of freshness and a pop of color to your CrockPot Chicken Tortellini. A few red pepper flakes on top can also add a nice hint of heat if you love a little spice.

Side Dishes

This hearty dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides like garlic bread or a crisp green salad to balance its creamy richness. Roasted vegetables or a light Caesar salad also complement the Italian-inspired flavors magnificently.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your CrockPot Chicken Tortellini in individual bowls dusted with extra Parmesan and pepper. For a dinner party, lay it out in a rustic casserole dish and invite guests to serve themselves, creating an inviting family-style meal atmosphere that everyone will enjoy.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover CrockPot Chicken Tortellini stores wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors even deepen as it rests, making for an easy and tasty next-day meal.

Freezing

You can freeze leftovers by placing them in a freezer-safe container. For best texture, freeze without the added spinach, and stir it in fresh when reheating. The dish will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat your CrockPot Chicken Tortellini gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if it seems too thick. Stir occasionally to evenly warm the tortellini and prevent sticking.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe?

Yes, but it’s best to increase the cooking time by an hour or so to ensure the chicken cooks through completely and becomes tender enough to shred.

Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely. Substitute the mozzarella and Parmesan with dairy-free cheese alternatives, and use coconut cream or another non-dairy heavy cream substitute to keep it creamy without dairy.

Can I use store-bought cooked chicken instead of raw?

While using cooked chicken can save time, adding it at the beginning of the cooking process won’t work as well. Instead, add cooked shredded chicken during the last 30 minutes of cooking to warm it through without drying it out.

What type of tortellini works best for this recipe?

Cheese-filled tortellini is the classic choice here, as it complements the creamy sauce beautifully. However, meat or spinach-filled tortellini can also be used, depending on your preference.

Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?

Yes! Use the sauté function to brown the chicken and then pressure cook for about 12 minutes, followed by quick release. Add the tortellini and cheese at the end, cooking on sauté until warmed through.

Final Thoughts

This CrockPot Chicken Tortellini recipe is an absolute treasure for anyone who loves hearty, cheesy comfort food without the fuss. Once you try it, you’ll wonder how this cozy, flavorful dish ever escaped your dinner rotation. So dust off your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to a bowl of pure, slow-cooked happiness—you deserve it!

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