CrockPot Chicken Tortellini

CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of marinara sauce, tender chicken, and cheesy tortellini. Made in a slow cooker, this recipe allows you to prepare a warm and comforting meal with minimal effort. Simply throw in the ingredients and let the CrockPot do all the work. It’s perfect for busy days when you want a homemade dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

There are many reasons to love this CrockPot Chicken Tortellini recipe. First, it is incredibly easy to make. You don’t need to spend a lot of time pre-cooking or chopping. Just add the ingredients to your slow cooker, set it, and forget it! Second, it is a one-pot meal, which means less mess to clean up afterward. Moreover, the flavors blend beautifully over the slow cooking time, making every bite delicious. Lastly, it’s very versatile. You can adjust the ingredients according to your preferences and dietary needs. Whether you are feeding a family or just yourself, this dish is sure to please everyone.

HOW TO MAKE CrockPot Chicken Tortellini

Making this dish is simple. Follow the easy steps to create a tasty meal that everyone will love. Gather your ingredients, and you will be on your way to enjoying a comforting bowl of Chicken Tortellini.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

For this recipe, you will need:

• A CrockPot (slow cooker)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• A cutting board
• A sharp knife
• Forks (for shredding chicken)
• A mixing spoon
• Serving bowls

Ingredients 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

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

1. Spray the slow cooker with olive oil. This helps to stop the food from sticking.
2. Arrange chicken breasts in a single layer. Place the chicken at the bottom of the CrockPot.
3. Pour marinara sauce and spices over the chicken. Make sure to cover the chicken well with sauce and spices for great flavor.
4. Cover and set the slow cooker to LOW for about 4 hours. This will cook the chicken slowly, making it tender.
5. Shred the cooked chicken with forks. After 4 hours, the chicken should be very tender. Use forks to pull it apart into shreds.
6. Return shredded chicken to the cooker and mix with the sauce. Make sure everything is well combined.
7. Add tortellini, mozzarella, and heavy cream, stirring well. The tortellini will soak up all the flavors as it cooks.
8. Cook on LOW for another 30 minutes. This allows the tortellini to become soft and delicious.
9. Stir in spinach and cook for 10 more minutes. The spinach will wilt nicely and add a healthy touch.
10. Add Parmesan cheese, taste, and adjust seasoning. Mix in the cheese, and make sure it tastes just right for you.

 

 

HOW TO SERVE CrockPot Chicken Tortellini

Serve your CrockPot Chicken Tortellini hot. You can ladle the dish into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs for added flavor. This dish pairs well with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. Enjoy!

STORAGE & FREEZING : CrockPot Chicken Tortellini

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Make sure to consume them within 3-4 days for the best taste. If you want to freeze the dish, let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the microwave or on the stove.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

You can serve CrockPot Chicken Tortellini with a variety of sides. Some popular choices include:

• Garlic bread for a crunchy side.
• A fresh, crisp salad to balance the richness of the dish.
• Steamed vegetables for added nutrition.
• A simple fruit salad for a light and refreshing dessert option.

VARIATIONS

Feel free to change the recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some ideas:

• Use a different type of pasta, like penne or rotini, if you can’t find tortellini.
• Substitute chicken with turkey or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian option.
• Add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, to increase the nutritional value.
• Use different cheeses, like cheddar or a blend of your favorites.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just add an extra hour of cooking time.
2. Is this recipe healthy? It can be part of a balanced diet. You can add more vegetables and reduce the cheese if you are looking for a lighter option.
3. Can I make it dairy-free? Yes, use dairy-free cheese and a non-dairy cream substitute.
4. How can I make it spicier? Add more red chili flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR CrockPot Chicken Tortellini

To make your cooking even easier, you can prepare some ingredients ahead of time. Chop the chicken and mix the spices together. You can also prepare the marinara sauce in advance if you are using a special homemade recipe. Store everything in the fridge, so it’s ready to go when you want to make the dish. This will save you time and help you enjoy a home-cooked meal even on busy days.

Print