CrockPot Chicken Tortellini

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms your heart and fills your belly, then you’ve stumbled upon the right place! This CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is my go-to comfort food, especially on those chilly evenings when all I want is something hearty and delicious. The combination of tender chicken, rich marinara sauce, and melty tortellini makes it an instant family favorite. Plus, it’s so easy to prepare; you can set it and forget it!

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a meal that practically cooks itself. Just throw everything into the slow cooker and let it do its magic! Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a warm dinner after a long day, this dish has got you covered.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can have a comforting meal ready without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly Delight: Everyone loves cheese tortellini! This dish is sure to please picky eaters and make mealtime enjoyable for all.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for meal prep! Just pop everything in the slow cooker in the morning and come home to a warm dinner.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of spices with marinara sauce creates a deliciously rich flavor that will have everyone going back for seconds!
• Nourishing Ingredients: Made with wholesome ingredients like chicken and spinach, this recipe is as good for your body as it is for your taste buds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be pleasantly surprised by how simple and wholesome these ingredients are. Each one plays a special role in making this CrockPot Chicken Tortellini absolutely delightful!

For the Base

• 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

For the Creamy Finish

• 1 lb cheese tortellini
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 2 cups baby spinach
• ⅓ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative with different ingredients based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for a richer flavor.
• Add more veggies: Toss in additional vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, add more red chili flakes or even some sliced jalapeños!
• Go dairy-free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free cheese alternatives for a lighter version.

How to Make CrockPot Chicken Tortellini

Step 1: Prepare Your Slow Cooker

Start by spraying your slow cooker with olive oil. This helps prevent sticking and ensures everything comes out nice and smooth. It’s such an easy step but makes all the difference when serving!

Step 2: Arrange the Chicken

Next, place the chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of your slow cooker. This allows them to cook evenly in that lovely marinara sauce.

Step 3: Add Sauce and Spices

Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken along with garlic powder, onion granules, Italian seasoning mix, paprika, and red chili flakes. These flavors meld beautifully while cooking—such an aromatic delight!

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow

Cover your slow cooker and set it to LOW for about 4 hours. This low-and-slow method ensures that your chicken becomes tender enough to shred easily.

Step 5: Shred That Chicken!

After cooking, take two forks and shred the chicken right inside the pot. Mixing it back into that flavorful sauce means every bite will be packed with goodness!

Step 6: Add Tortellini & Cheese

Stir in the tortellini, mozzarella cheese, and heavy cream. Give it a good mix—this creamy addition really elevates the dish! Let it cook on LOW for another 30 minutes until everything is heated through.

Step 7: Stir in Spinach

Towards the end of cooking time, toss in those fresh baby spinach leaves. They wilt wonderfully right before serving while adding lovely color and nutrients!

Step 8: Finish with Parmesan

Finally, sprinkle in some grated Parmesan cheese before serving. Give everything one last stir, taste for seasoning adjustments if needed, then serve up this delicious meal that’s sure to bring smiles around the table.

Enjoy your CrockPot Chicken Tortellini with some crusty bread or a fresh salad on the side—it’s truly comfort food at its best!

Pro Tips for Making CrockPot Chicken Tortellini

Making this delicious dish is easy, but a few tips can enhance your experience even more!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh chicken and high-quality marinara sauce will significantly improve the flavor of your dish, making each bite taste wonderfully homemade.
• Don’t rush the cooking time: Allowing the chicken to cook on LOW for the full time ensures it becomes tender and easily shreddable. This way, you maintain the texture and taste that makes this dish so comforting.
• Adjust spice levels to your preference: Feel free to modify the amount of red chili flakes based on your heat tolerance. This allows you to customize the dish to suit your family’s tastes.
• Experiment with cheese: While mozzarella is delicious, trying out other varieties like provolone or fontina can add a unique twist to your tortellini dish, giving it a creamy depth that’s hard to resist.
• Make it ahead of time: This recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare everything in advance and let it cook while you’re busy with other activities. Just keep in mind that the tortellini should be added towards the end of cooking for optimal texture.

How to Serve CrockPot Chicken Tortellini

Serving this hearty CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is all about presentation and pairing. Here are some ideas to make your meal feel special!

Garnishes

• Fresh basil: A sprinkle of chopped fresh basil not only adds a pop of color but also brings a fragrant aroma that elevates the overall taste.
• Parmesan shavings: Top each serving with shaved Parmesan for an extra touch of richness and savory flavor that complements the dish beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of marinara sauce. It adds a satisfying crunch alongside your creamy tortellini.
• Caesar salad: A crisp Caesar salad balances out the richness of the tortellini with its refreshing greens and tangy dressing, making it an ideal companion.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition to your plate. They can be seasoned simply with olive oil, salt, and pepper for a delightful side.
• Steamed broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a nutritious contrast to the creamy dish while adding beautiful green color to your meal.

With these serving suggestions, your CrockPot Chicken Tortellini will not only taste wonderful but also look inviting on the dinner table. Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to whip up hearty servings that can be enjoyed throughout the week. Here’s how to store and make the most of your delicious dish.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover CrockPot Chicken Tortellini in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• If you notice excess liquid, feel free to drain some before storing.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months; just make sure to label with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen.
• Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if it seems too thick.
• Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.

FAQs

You might have a few questions about this delightful recipe. Here are some common inquiries:

Can I use other types of tortellini in my CrockPot Chicken Tortellini?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different flavors like spinach or mushroom tortellini. Just make sure they are cheese-filled for that creamy goodness.

How long does it take to prepare CrockPot Chicken Tortellini?

The total time for this recipe is approximately 4 hours and 50 minutes, including prep and cooking time. It’s perfect for busy days when you want a comforting meal ready when you get home!

Can I adjust the spice levels in CrockPot Chicken Tortellini?

Yes, you can easily modify the spice levels! If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce or omit the red chili flakes. For more heat, add additional spices as desired.

Is there a vegetarian version of CrockPot Chicken Tortellini?

You can definitely make a vegetarian version by replacing chicken with your favorite plant-based protein and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this CrockPot Chicken Tortellini! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on chilly nights. I encourage you to gather your loved ones and share this delightful dish together. Enjoy every comforting bite!