CrockPot Chicken Tortellini

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for a simple yet satisfying meal that is perfect for busy nights, this CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is a must-try! The recipe combines comforting chicken, creamy cheese, and tender tortellini in a deliciously seasoned sauce, all made in the slow cooker. It's ideal for those who want to enjoy a flavorful dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it's a one-pot wonder, meaning cleanup is a breeze.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Olive oil spray

• 1 ½ lb 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

Directions

1. Spray your slow cooker with olive oil or non-stick cooking spray.

2. Place the chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of the slow cooker.

3. Add the marinara sauce, garlic powder, onion granules, Italian seasoning, paprika, red chili flakes, and chicken broth. Ensure the chicken is completely submerged in the liquid.

4. Cover and cook on LOW for 4 hours or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

5. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.

6. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker. Add the tortellini, shredded mozzarella cheese, and heavy cream. Stir well to combine, making sure the tortellini are fully covered by the liquid.

7. Cover and cook on LOW for 30 minutes or until the tortellini are tender.

8. Stir in the baby spinach and continue cooking for an additional 10 minutes until wilted.

9. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, adjust seasoning to taste, and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Prep time: 5 minutes

• Cook time: 4 hours 40 minutes (4 hours on LOW for chicken, 30 minutes for tortellini, and 10 minutes for spinach)

• Total time: 4 hours 45 minutes

• Servings: 6

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version of this dish.

• Different Pasta: If you don’t have tortellini, feel free to use any other type of pasta like penne, rigatoni, or farfalle.

• Spicy Kick: Add more red chili flakes or even a dash of hot sauce for a spicier flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the leftovers in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also reheat in the microwave, stirring every 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

How do I know when the chicken is done in the slow cooker?

To ensure your chicken is fully cooked, check the internal temperature using a meat thermometer. It should reach 165°F.

Can I use frozen chicken breast for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but you may need to increase the cooking time slightly. Make sure the chicken reaches 165°F before serving.

Can I use a different kind of pasta?

Absolutely! If you don’t have tortellini, try another pasta like penne or rigatoni. Just keep an eye on the cook time.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it when ready to serve.

Can I use low-fat or fat-free cream for this recipe?

You can use low-fat cream or even a dairy-free alternative, but the texture and richness may be different.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.

What can I serve this with?

This dish is quite hearty on its own, but you could serve it with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stove or in the microwave.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is not gluten-free, as it contains tortellini. To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta.

How do I adjust the recipe for more servings?

To increase the recipe for more servings, simply multiply the ingredients and adjust the slow cooking time if needed. Make sure the slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the extra servings.

Conclusion

CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is a perfect meal for busy nights or when you’re craving something warm and comforting. It’s easy to prepare, full of flavor, and can be adapted to suit your preferences. Whether you're feeding a family or enjoying leftovers, this dish will surely be a hit every time.