“On a brisk evening, the kind that calls for comfort and connection, I found myself longing for a cozy, warm meal. That’s when I decided to embrace my slow cooker and whip up a batch of CrockPot Chicken Tortellini. This dish is a homemade hug in a bowl, featuring tender chicken simmered in rich marinara sauce and enveloped in creamy cheese tortellini. Not only is this recipe a breeze to prepare—perfect for those busy weeknights—but it also delivers delightful flavors that will please the entire family. As the tantalizing aromas fill your home, you’ll know that dinner is not just about food, but a moment of togetherness. Ready to discover how easy it is to create this heartwarming meal?” Why is CrockPot Chicken Tortellini a Must-Try? Convenience at its Finest: Just set it, forget it, and let the slow cooker work its magic. Family-Friendly Flavors: The combination of tender chicken and creamy cheese tortellini in marinara is sure to win over picky eaters. Nutritional Boost: Fresh baby spinach adds a healthy touch, making it a balanced meal. Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or proteins, ensuring everyone gets what they love. Perfect for Leftovers: Easily reheats for lunch or dinner, making it a smart weeknight choice. Comfort in a Bowl: This dish is the epitome of cozy; it’s more than just a meal, it’s a shared experience! Pair it with some garlic bread or a fresh green salad for an extra special touch. CrockPot Chicken Tortellini Ingredients For the Chicken • Olive oil spray – Prevents sticking; alternatively, you can use non-stick cooking spray. • 1 ½ lbs chicken breast – The main protein source; ensure pieces are of similar size for even cooking. For the Sauce • 2 cups marinara sauce – Provides flavor and moisture; homemade or store-bought both work wonderfully. • 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds savory depth; fresh garlic can be a delicious substitute. • 1 teaspoon onion granules – Enhances flavor; chopped fresh onion is also a fantastic option. • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning mix – A blend of herbs delivering the classic flavor profile. • ½ teaspoon paprika – Adds warmth and vivid color; consider using smoked paprika for a unique twist. • ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes – Introduces a hint of heat; adjust according to your spice preference. • 1 ½ cups chicken broth – Adds moisture and richness; vegetable broth is perfect for a vegetarian option. For the Tortellini • 1 lb cheese tortellini – The heart of the dish; frozen tortellini can go straight into the pot without thawing. • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded – Creates a creamy richness; substitute with your favorite melty cheese. • ½ cup heavy cream – Imparts luxurious richness; half-and-half can be used for a lighter version. • 2 cups baby spinach – Offers nutrition and vibrancy; feel free to swap for other leafy greens. • ⅓ cup Parmesan cheese, grated – Offers a finishing touch of flavor; nutritional yeast can be a great dairy-free substitute. This cozy CrockPot Chicken Tortellini dish is ready to become a beloved family favorite! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for CrockPot Chicken Tortellini Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker Spray the inside of your slow cooker with olive oil spray to prevent sticking. This will help ensure your CrockPot Chicken Tortellini comes out effortlessly clean. It’s essential to spread it evenly, as this small step makes a significant difference in the cooking process. Step 2: Arrange the Chicken Place the 1 ½ lbs of chicken breast in a single layer at the bottom of the slow cooker. This helps the chicken cook evenly. The chicken should be fresh, and it’s essential that the pieces are similar in size for uniform cooking, which takes about 4 hours on LOW. Step 3: Add the Sauce and Spices Pour in the 2 cups of marinara sauce and 1 ½ cups of chicken broth over the chicken. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion granules, and 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning mix evenly across the top. This layering ensures each piece of chicken is well-flavored and covered by the sauce. Step 4: Cook the Chicken Cover the slow cooker and set it to LOW for approximately 4 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is tender. The rich aroma of the marinara sauce will fill your kitchen, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Step 5: Shred the Chicken Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and return it to the sauce. This step is crucial as it helps infuse the shredded chicken with the delicious flavors of the marinara sauce, bringing your CrockPot Chicken Tortellini together. Step 6: Incorporate the Tortellini and Cheese Add 1 lb of cheese tortellini, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, and ½ cup of heavy cream into the mixture. Stir well to combine everything, ensuring the tortellini is evenly distributed. This addition transforms your dish into a creamy, comforting delight. Step 7: Cook Again Cover the slow cooker and cook the tortellini mixture on LOW for an additional 30 minutes. This allows the tortellini to become tender and soak up the delightful flavors. Keep an eye on it, as you want it to be hot and gooey but not overcooked! Step 8: Add Baby Spinach After 30 minutes, stir in the 2 cups of baby spinach. Cook for an extra 10 minutes until the spinach wilts. This adds a beautiful pop of color and nutrients to your CrockPot Chicken Tortellini, balancing the creamy texture with freshness. Step 9: Final Touches with Parmesan Right before serving, sprinkle in ⅓ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir to combine and taste for seasoning adjustments. The cheesy finish gives your dish that gourmet flair, ensuring every bowl is rich and satisfying. Expert Tips for CrockPot Chicken Tortellini Uniform Chicken Size: Ensure your chicken breasts are similar in size to guarantee even cooking throughout the dish, so no piece is left undercooked. Don’t Thaw Tortellini: You can add frozen tortellini directly to the slow cooker without thawing—just remember to increase cooking time by about 10-15 minutes for perfect texture. Customize Spice Levels: Adjust the heat by adding more red chili flakes or even a dash of hot sauce before serving, catering to your family’s taste preferences. Flavor Enhancements: For a flavor boost, consider adding sun-dried tomatoes or fresh herbs like basil as a topping; these can elevate your CrockPot Chicken Tortellini experience! Store Safely: Leftovers can be placed in an airtight container and refrigerated for up to 3 days, or portioned and frozen for longer storage, providing a quick meal option later. What to Serve with Slow Cooker Chicken Tortellini in Marinara Sauce Pair your delicious meal with delightful sides and drinks that enhance the comforting flavors of your slow-cooked masterpiece! Garlic Bread: The classic pairing is a must! Its crispy exterior and buttery, garlicky inside are perfect for soaking up the rich marinara sauce. Fresh Green Salad: A vibrant mix of greens and veggies adds a refreshing crunch. Toss in a zesty vinaigrette to brighten up the palate. Roasted Vegetables: For a hearty side, serve roasted seasonal veggies. Their caramelized edges and tender centers create a deliciously complementary texture and flavor. Cheesy Breadsticks: Soft, warm breadsticks smothered in cheese provide an extra touch of indulgence, perfect for dipping and enjoying alongside. Grilled Chicken Salad: Lighten up the meal with a grilled chicken salad featuring a citrus-based dressing. This pairs beautifully with the creamy tortellini for a balanced dinner. Light Italian White Wine: A chilled bottle of Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc enhances the meal. Its crisp, fruity notes will complement the rich flavors beautifully. Italian Tiramisu: End your dinner on a sweet note with a classic tiramisu. Its creamy layers of coffee and cocoa will leave everyone asking for seconds! Lemon Sorbet: If you’re looking for something lighter, a refreshing lemon sorbet serves as a delightful palate cleanser between bites, perfect after a rich meal. Make Ahead Options CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is a meal prep dream that can save you time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the chicken and sauce mix up to 24 hours in advance by placing the chicken breasts, marinara sauce, broth, and spices in the slow cooker (just don’t add the tortellini or cheese yet). Store the container in the refrigerator, ensuring everything is well-covered to maintain freshness. On the day you wish to serve, simply pour the entire mix into the slow cooker, set it to LOW, and cook for about 4 hours. Then add the tortellini, cheeses, and spinach as directed, and enjoy the same comforting flavors without the last-minute rush! How to Store and Freeze CrockPot Chicken Tortellini Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Label each bag with the date for easy tracking. Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to maintain creaminess. Serving Suggestions: When ready to serve, garnish with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs for a delightful finishing touch! CrockPot Chicken Tortellini Variations Feel free to customize this comforting dish with delightful twists and substitutions that will excite your taste buds! Vegetarian: Swap out chicken for mushrooms or plant-based protein and use vegetable broth for a hearty vegetarian alternative. This switch doesn’t compromise on flavor and keeps it comforting! Extra Veggies: Throw in baby carrots or diced bell peppers along with the chicken for a vibrant boost of color and nutrition. These additions bring a satisfying crunch to each bite. Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh herbs like basil or parsley before serving for a fresh, aromatic touch. A sprinkle can elevate the flavor and add a pop of freshness to your cozy bowl. Creamy Spin: For an even creamier texture, add a dollop of crème fraîche or sour cream just before serving. This little indulgence makes the dish irresistibly rich! Spice it Up: Increase the heat by adding more red chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the marinara. This variation brings warmth and excitement for spice lovers. Savory Twist: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes into the marinara for deeper, richer flavors. They complement the sauce beautifully, creating a burst of savory goodness. Cheesy Delight: Swap mozzarella cheese for fontina or gouda to introduce a new flavor profile and creaminess. Each cheese brings its own unique twist to the dish. Protein Boost: Add cooked Italian sausage or shredded rotisserie chicken for an extra flavor kick and protein boost. You’ll find a delightful medley of tastes and textures in every spoonful. These variations keep the heartwarming tradition of CrockPot Chicken Tortellini alive while letting you express your culinary creativity! If you’re looking for other comforting recipes, try pairing this dish with One Pot Chicken Dumpling Soup or explore the flavors of Caribbean Chicken Rice. Enjoy your culinary adventure! CrockPot Chicken Tortellini Recipe FAQs What type of chicken should I use? Absolutely! I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts as they cook evenly and become tender in the slow cooker. Ensure they are of similar size for consistent cooking, which should take about 4 hours on LOW. How should I store leftovers? Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to let it cool completely before sealing. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Can I freeze CrockPot Chicken Tortellini? Very! To freeze, portion out the dish into airtight containers or freezer bags, ensuring you remove as much air as possible. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just label each bag with the date for easy tracking. What if my tortellini is overcooked? If you notice your tortellini is mushy, it might be a sign it was cooked too long. For next time, try checking for doneness after the first 30 minutes to prevent overcooking. If you use frozen tortellini, remember they can be added directly, but keep an eye on timing! Are there any dietary considerations? Definitely! For a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half. If you’re looking for vegetarian alternatives, consider replacing the chicken with mushrooms, and ensure to use vegetable broth. Always check your ingredients for allergens to accommodate any dietary restrictions. How can I enhance the flavor of my dish? To give your CrockPot Chicken Tortellini an extra oomph, consider adding freshly chopped herbs like basil or thyme right before serving. You can also toss in some sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor that complements the marinara beautifully! CrockPot Chicken Tortellini: A Cozy Family Dinner Delight CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is a comforting dish featuring tender chicken, marinara sauce, and creamy cheese tortellini, perfect for family dinners. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 4 hours hrsAdditional Cooking Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 4 hours hrs 50 minutes mins Servings: 6 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken1.5 lbs chicken breast Ensure pieces are of similar size for even cooking.1 can olive oil spray Prevents sticking.For the Sauce2 cups marinara sauce Homemade or store-bought.1 teaspoon garlic powder Can substitute with fresh garlic.1 teaspoon onion granules Chopped fresh onion can be used.1 teaspoon Italian seasoning mix Blend of herbs.0.5 teaspoon paprika Consider using smoked paprika.0.25 teaspoon red chili flakes Adjust according to spice preference.1.5 cups chicken broth Vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.For the Tortellini1 lbs cheese tortellini Frozen is fine, don't thaw.1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded Substitute with another melty cheese if desired.0.5 cups heavy cream Half-and-half can be used for a lighter option.2 cups baby spinach Other leafy greens can be swapped.0.33 cups Parmesan cheese, grated Nutritional yeast can be a great dairy-free substitute. Equipment Slow cooker Method Step-by-Step InstructionsSpray the inside of your slow cooker with olive oil spray to prevent sticking.Place the chicken breast in a single layer at the bottom of the slow cooker.Pour in the marinara sauce and chicken broth over the chicken. Sprinkle garlic powder, onion granules, and Italian seasoning mix evenly across the top.Cover the slow cooker and set it to LOW for approximately 4 hours.Once cooked, carefully remove and shred the chicken, then return it to the sauce.Add cheese tortellini, mozzarella cheese, and heavy cream into the mixture and stir well.Cover and cook the tortellini mixture on LOW for an additional 30 minutes.Stir in the baby spinach and cook for an extra 10 minutes until wilted.Sprinkle in grated Parmesan cheese, stir to combine and adjust seasoning. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg NotesLeftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage. Reheat with a splash of broth. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
