CrockPot Chicken Tortellini

This CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is the perfect dish for those busy weeknights or cozy weekends. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s a meal that brings everyone together. Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is both satisfying and simple to prepare. The combination of tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and fresh spinach makes it a standout choice that will please even the pickiest eaters.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Simply toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work for you.
• Rich Flavor: The blend of marinara sauce and Italian spices creates a deliciously comforting dish.
• Versatile Ingredients: Perfect for using up leftover chicken or vegetables you have on hand.
• Creamy Texture: The addition of heavy cream and cheese gives this dish an indulgent richness.
• Kid-Friendly: With its cheesy goodness and tender pieces of chicken, it’s sure to be a hit with kids.

Tools and Preparation

To make this CrockPot Chicken Tortellini, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that streamline your cooking process.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Slow cooker
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Mixing spoon
• Meat thermometer

Why These Tools Matter

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking, perfect for busy days.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accurate ingredient amounts for consistent results.
• Measuring spoons: Helps in adding precise amounts of spices and seasonings.
• Mixing spoon: Essential for combining ingredients evenly for great flavor.

Ingredients

This CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is a cozy yet super easy meal that will please even the pickiest eaters!

Ingredients:
– Olive oil spray
– 1 1/2 lb chicken breast (about 4 medium breasts)
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion granules
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning mix
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes
– 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
– 1 lb cheese tortellini
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups baby spinach
– 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)

How to Make CrockPot Chicken Tortellini

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Spray your slow cooker with olive oil (or a non-stick cooking spray) to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Add the Chicken

Arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer on the bottom of the slow cooker.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

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

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Cook on LOW for 4 hours or until the chicken is cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 5: Shred the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.

Step 6: Add Remaining Ingredients

Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker. Add in the tortellini, shredded mozzarella cheese, and cream. Stir well to combine and ensure that all tortellini are covered by liquid.

Step 7: Cook Tortellini

Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for an additional 30 minutes until the tortellini are tender.

Step 8: Stir in Spinach

Stir in the baby spinach and continue to cook for another 10 minutes until wilted.

Step 9: Finish with Cheese

Finally, stir in grated Parmesan cheese, adjust seasoning to taste, and serve immediately.

How to Serve CrockPot Chicken Tortellini

Serving CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is a delightful experience that can be tailored to suit various tastes. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or enjoying a cozy night in, there are many ways to enhance this creamy dish.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Garlic Bread: A classic side that complements the flavors of tortellini perfectly. Simply spread butter and garlic on slices of bread, bake until golden, and enjoy.

Add a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with leafy greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and your favorite vinaigrette provides a refreshing balance to the creamy tortellini.

Serve with Steamed Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans: These vegetables add color and nutrients. Steam them lightly and season with olive oil and salt for an easy side.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh Basil or Parsley: Garnishing your dish with fresh herbs not only looks beautiful but also adds a burst of flavor.

Include Some Crusty Rolls

• Crusty Dinner Rolls: Soft rolls are perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce from the tortellini. Serve warm for the best experience.

Offer Extra Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese: Serve additional grated Parmesan cheese on the side so everyone can sprinkle as much as they like on their bowl of tortellini.

How to Perfect CrockPot Chicken Tortellini

To achieve the best results with your CrockPot Chicken Tortellini, consider these helpful tips that will elevate your dish.

• Bold seasoning choices: Don’t shy away from enhancing flavor. Adjust spices according to your preference for a more personalized taste.
• Bold broth selection: Using low-sodium chicken broth allows you to control the saltiness while still providing rich flavor.
• Bold cooking time adjustments: If you’re short on time, cooking on HIGH for 2 hours can also yield delicious results—just ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
• Bold ingredient freshness: Opt for fresh spinach instead of frozen for better texture and flavor in your dish.
• Bold cheese variety: Experiment with different cheeses like provolone or gouda mixed in with mozzarella for a unique twist.
• Bold serving temperature: Serve immediately after cooking for optimal creaminess; letting it sit too long may thicken the sauce excessively.

Best Side Dishes for CrockPot Chicken Tortellini

Enhancing your meal with side dishes can make it even more enjoyable. Here are some excellent options to serve alongside your CrockPot Chicken Tortellini.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting addition that pairs well with the rich tortellini sauce.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Simply toss asparagus spears in olive oil and roast until tender. The slight char adds depth to your meal.
3. Caprese Salad: Combine fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze for a bright contrast to the main dish.
4. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese provides crunch alongside the creamy pasta.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn is always a hit! Boil or grill it, then slather in butter for extra flavor.
6. Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): For a lighter option, spiralize zucchini as a base under the tortellini instead of traditional pasta.
7. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice and veggies serve as both a side and an eye-catching presentation piece.
8. Sweet Potato Fries: Baked sweet potato fries offer sweetness and crunch; simply season them with salt and paprika before baking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes when preparing CrockPot Chicken Tortellini. Here are some common pitfalls and how to dodge them.

• Skipping the seasoning – Not adding enough spices can result in bland flavors. Always season your ingredients well for a delicious meal.
• Overcooking the chicken – Cooking the chicken for too long can dry it out. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s perfectly cooked at 165°F.
• Neglecting to stir – Failing to mix the ingredients can lead to uneven cooking. Stir the tortellini and cheese into the sauce for even flavor distribution.
• Using frozen tortellini – Frozen tortellini may not cook evenly in the slow cooker. Opt for fresh tortellini for the best texture and taste.
• Not adjusting liquid levels – Insufficient or excessive liquid can affect consistency. Ensure that the chicken is submerged and adjust as needed based on your cooker’s size.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover CrockPot Chicken Tortellini in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing CrockPot Chicken Tortellini

• Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• This dish can be stored for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating CrockPot Chicken Tortellini

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the dish in an oven-safe container, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave – Transfer a serving to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop – Heat over medium-low heat in a saucepan, stirring regularly until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is CrockPot Chicken Tortellini?

CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is a comforting dish made with chicken, cheese-filled tortellini, marinara sauce, and spices, all slow-cooked together.

Can I customize my CrockPot Chicken Tortellini?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or switch up the cheese for variations.

How long does it take to cook CrockPot Chicken Tortellini?

It typically takes around 4 hours on LOW for the chicken and about 30 minutes more once you add the tortellini.

Can I use other proteins in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to substitute with turkey, lamb, or even beef for a different flavor profile while maintaining deliciousness.

Conclusion

This CrockPot Chicken Tortellini recipe offers comfort and ease, making it perfect for busy nights or cozy gatherings. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients according to your preferences. Give it a try today!