CrockPot Chicken Tortellini Recipe

There is something truly magical about a dish that combines hearty comfort with effortless preparation, and this CrockPot Chicken Tortellini Recipe does exactly that. Imagine tender, seasoned chicken slowly simmered in rich marinara, mingling with cheesy tortellini and fresh spinach, all brought together by a luscious cream and Parmesan finish. This meal feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for busy days when you want to come home to something both satisfying and homemade without the fuss. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll find it hard to go back to anything simpler for a cozy dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this CrockPot Chicken Tortellini Recipe plays an essential role, creating layers of flavor and texture while keeping the prep wonderfully straightforward. From the tender chicken to the creamy sauce, these staples come together in perfect harmony.

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein that becomes tender and juicy after hours in the CrockPot.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Adds a fragrant, herbaceous backbone to the dish without overpowering the flavors.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides a mellow garlic essence that infuses the chicken during cooking.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors while keeping everything balanced.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and warms up the overall profile.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Offers bright, fresh garlic notes that complement the powder and marinara.
• 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce: Brings rich tomato flavor and slight sweetness, forming the sauce’s foundation.
• 1 cup chicken broth: Keeps the dish moist and helps meld all the flavors during slow cooking.
• 1 (16 oz) package cheese tortellini: Delicious, pillowy pasta that absorbs the sauce and adds creamy cheese pockets.
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped: Adds vibrant color and a burst of fresh, mild earthiness.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Enriches the sauce, making it luxuriously creamy and smooth.
• 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese: Delivers a sharp, salty finish that perfectly complements the cream.
• Fresh basil, chopped, for garnish: Adds a refreshing herbal aroma and pretty green pop when serving.

How to Make CrockPot Chicken Tortellini Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Chicken Base

Start by placing the chicken breasts right in the CrockPot. This is where all the slow magic begins, allowing the chicken to soak up the seasoning and sauce flavors during the long, gentle cooking process.

Step 2: Season to Perfection

Sprinkle Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper evenly over the chicken. These spices create the classic flavor foundation that will fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.

Step 3: Add Aromatics and Sauce

Toss in the minced garlic, pour the marinara sauce over everything, and add chicken broth. This combination builds a rich, saucy bed for the chicken to slowly cook in, ensuring it stays moist and tender.

Step 4: Slow Cook the Chicken

Cover the CrockPot and set it to low. Let it cook for 4 to 5 hours until the chicken is tender enough to shred effortlessly—this slow cooking step guarantees that deep, comforting flavor.

Step 5: Shred and Return the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the CrockPot and shred it with two forks. Don’t skip this step, as shredding helps the chicken meld beautifully with the sauce when you put it back in.

Step 6: Add Tortellini and Spinach

Layer the cheese tortellini and chopped spinach on top of the shredded chicken in the CrockPot. These ingredients will cook through during the final stage, adding heartiness and a vibrant, fresh touch.

Step 7: Stir in Cream and Parmesan

Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the top. Stir gently to combine—this creamy addition will transform the sauce into a dreamy, velvety finish.

Step 8: Final Cooking

Cover and set the CrockPot to high for an additional 30 to 45 minutes, allowing the tortellini to become tender and the flavors to fully meld into a rich, luscious dish.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Before serving, sprinkle fresh chopped basil over the top for a pop of color and bright herbal fragrance that complements the creamy tomato sauce beautifully.

How to Serve CrockPot Chicken Tortellini Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh chopped basil is your go-to garnish for this dish, providing a fresh contrast to the creamy richness. For extra flair and texture, grated Parmesan or a drizzle of good olive oil also work wonders.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the creamy pasta. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread is also a lovely accompaniment to soak up every bit of sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, serve the CrockPot Chicken Tortellini Recipe in individual shallow bowls topped with basil leaves and a sprinkle of parmesan. You might also consider adding a light dusting of freshly cracked pepper or a few chili flakes for those who like a subtle kick.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to deepen, making reheated portions just as delightful as fresh ones.

Freezing

While freezing is possible, keep in mind that the texture of spinach and tortellini may change slightly after thawing. For best results, freeze the chicken and sauce without the tortellini, and add fresh pasta when reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You may want to add a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce and keep the tortellini tender.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but you should increase the cooking time by about an hour to ensure the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

What if I can’t find cheese tortellini?

Cream-filled ravioli or even small cheese-filled pasta shapes work as great substitutes, keeping that rich, cheesy element integral to this CrockPot Chicken Tortellini Recipe.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative, and use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan for a similar cheesy flavor.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini would be tasty additions. Add them in the last hour of cooking to keep them from becoming too soft.

How thick is the sauce in this recipe?

The sauce is creamy yet saucy enough to coat the tortellini and chicken beautifully, striking a perfect balance between richness and comfort-food appeal.

Final Thoughts

This CrockPot Chicken Tortellini Recipe is truly one of those comforting meals that feels both indulgent and effortless. It’s perfect for busy weekdays or a relaxed weekend dinner when you crave something hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Give it a go and watch it become a beloved staple in your recipe rotation—you’re going to love coming home to this creamy, flavorful bowl of deliciousness.

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