CrockPot Chicken Tortellini Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting, no-fuss meal that can practically make itself while you focus on your day, then you absolutely need to try this CrockPot Chicken Tortellini. It’s the perfect marriage of tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and a rich, flavorful sauce that develops slowly and beautifully in your slow cooker. Every bite is cozy and packed with Italian-inspired goodness, making it an instant favorite on busy weeknights or relaxed weekends alike. This dish is a warm hug in a bowl that you’ll find yourself craving again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind CrockPot Chicken Tortellini lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each one works in harmony to create a dish that’s bursting with layers of flavor, texture, and color, without requiring hours of prep time.

• Olive oil spray: Helps to lightly coat the crockpot and prevent sticking without adding extra calories.
• 1 ½ lbs chicken breast: Provides lean protein and becomes delectably tender as it slow-cooks.
• 2 cups marinara sauce: Adds a robust and tangy tomato base that infuses the dish with Italian flair.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Gives a subtle but essential garlic underpinning that pairs perfectly with the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon onion granules: Adds sweet, savory undertones that deepen the flavor profile.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning mix: Brings in a classic herbaceous touch for that unmistakable Italian taste.
• ½ teaspoon paprika: Offers a mild smokiness and beautiful color to the sauce.
• ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes: Adds just the right amount of gentle heat to elevate the flavors.
• 1 ½ cups chicken broth: Keeps the dish moist and contributes to a rich, savory base.
• 1 lb cheese tortellini: The star pasta that makes this meal hearty and delightfully cheesy.
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: Melts into gooey goodness, creating a creamy texture throughout.
• ½ cup heavy cream: Adds luscious richness and softens the acidity of the tomato sauce.
• 2 cups baby spinach: Introduces a pop of green freshness and delicate earthiness.
• ⅓ cup Parmesan cheese, grated: Sprinkled on top for a nutty, salty finish that ties the dish together.

How to Make CrockPot Chicken Tortellini

Step 1: Prepare Your CrockPot

Start by spraying your slow cooker with olive oil spray to prevent the ingredients from sticking. This simple step ensures easy cleanup and keeps your chicken juicy and tender throughout the cooking process.

Step 2: Layer the Chicken and Seasonings

Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. Sprinkle garlic powder, onion granules, Italian seasoning, paprika, and red chili flakes evenly over the chicken. This seasoning mix is your flavor foundation, so don’t be shy; it really pumps up the deliciousness.

Step 3: Add the Sauces and Broth

Pour the marinara sauce and chicken broth over the seasoned chicken. These liquids will slowly mingle during cooking, creating a savory, aromatic sauce that infuses every piece of chicken with robust flavor.

Step 4: Slow Cook the Chicken

Cover the crockpot and let it cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or on high for about 2 to 3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and extremely tender. The slow cooking is what transforms the chicken into melt-in-your-mouth perfection.

Step 5: Add the Tortellini and Cream

Once the chicken is done, shred it gently with two forks right in the crockpot. Then stir in the uncooked cheese tortellini, shredded mozzarella, heavy cream, and baby spinach. Cover it back and cook for another 20 to 30 minutes on high until the tortellini is tender and the cheese has melted into a creamy sauce.

Step 6: Finish with Parmesan

Just before serving, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top and give everything one last gentle stir. This finishing touch adds a sharp, nutty layer that brightens and balances the richness beautifully.

How to Serve CrockPot Chicken Tortellini

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of fresh chopped basil or parsley adds a lovely burst of color and fresh herbal aroma that complements the dish perfectly. If you like a little extra zing, a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes on top gives it a gourmet touch.

Side Dishes

This hearty CrockPot Chicken Tortellini really shines on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, serve it with a crisp green salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette. Garlic bread or a crusty Italian loaf also pairs wonderfully, soaking up every last drop of that luscious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive presentation, serve the CrockPot Chicken Tortellini in individual small ramekins or deep bowls. Top each portion with a few parmesan crisps or a light scattering of toasted pine nuts for extra texture and a restaurant-style flair that will impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of CrockPot Chicken Tortellini keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually develop further overnight, making it ideal for next-day lunches or quick dinners.

Freezing

If you want to save some for even longer, this dish freezes nicely. Just portion it out into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing with the pasta if possible — you can always add fresh tortellini when reheating for best texture.

Reheating

For reheating, warm portions gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive its creamy consistency. Stir frequently to ensure even heating and avoid drying out any of the cheese or sauce.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just add extra cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked through before adding the tortellini and cheeses.

Is it possible to substitute the cheese tortellini?

Absolutely! You can swap the cheese tortellini for spinach tortellini, plain ravioli, or even small pasta shapes like gnocchi, but cooking times might vary slightly.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, skip the mozzarella, heavy cream, and Parmesan, or use plant-based cheese alternatives. The dish will still be rich thanks to the marinara and broth.

What if I dislike spicy food?

You can simply omit the red chili flakes for a milder dish without sacrificing any of the savory flavors.

How can I add more vegetables to the dish?

Feel free to toss in additional veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini along with the spinach during the last cooking stage for extra color and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

There’s truly nothing better than coming home to a warm, aromatic bowl of CrockPot Chicken Tortellini after a busy day. This recipe is a wonderful blend of comfort food that’s easy to prepare and hard to resist. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this hearty, cheesy delight with your loved ones as much as I do! Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become one of your go-to crockpot meals.

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