CrockPot Chicken Tortellini Recipe

There is nothing quite like a cozy, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, and that is exactly what this CrockPot Chicken Tortellini delivers. Imagine tender, flavorful chicken slowly simmered in a rich, herby marinara sauce, paired with pillowy cheese tortellini and creamy mozzarella, all finished off with fresh spinach and Parmesan. This dish not only fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas but also offers a deeply satisfying experience that brings everyone to the table smiling. Whether you’re cooking for family or craving an effortless weeknight dinner, this CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is a recipe you’ll want to keep handy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is the first secret to nailing this dish. The beauty of CrockPot Chicken Tortellini lies in how these simple, everyday ingredients come together to create layers of flavor, melt-in-your-mouth creaminess, and lovely textures that make every bite memorable.

• Olive oil spray: Prevents sticking and gives a light coating to enhance cooking without extra calories.
• 1 ½ lbs chicken breast: Tender and lean, it soaks up all the marinade goodness while cooking slowly.
• 2 cups marinara sauce: Provides the vibrant, tangy tomato base rich with herbs and spices.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a deep, savory note that pairs perfectly with chicken and pasta.
• 1 teaspoon onion granules: Offers subtle sweetness and moisture without the chunkiness of fresh onion.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning mix: A fragrant blend that brings the taste of Italy straight to your slow cooker.
• ½ teaspoon paprika: Adds warmth and a slight smoky undertone to the sauce.
• ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes: Just enough heat to awaken your palate without overpowering the dish.
• 1 ½ cups chicken broth: Enhances the sauce’s richness and keeps everything juicy.
• 1 lb cheese tortellini: Soft, stuffed pasta that soaks up the sauce and adds a cheesy burst in every mouthful.
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: Melts beautifully for gooey, stretchy goodness you can’t resist.
• ½ cup heavy cream: Enriches the sauce, making it luxuriously smooth and indulgent.
• 2 cups baby spinach: Adds a fresh, mild green bite to balance the dish.
• ⅓ cup Parmesan cheese, grated: A sharp, salty finish that boosts the overall flavor.

How to Make CrockPot Chicken Tortellini

Step 1: Prepare Your Slow Cooker

Start by giving your slow cooker a quick spray with olive oil. This simple step prevents the chicken and sauce from sticking to the sides during cooking, making cleanup easier and ensuring nothing gets burned or dried out.

Step 2: Layer the Chicken and Sauce

Arrange the chicken breasts neatly in a single layer inside the slow cooker. Pour the marinara sauce all over the chicken, then sprinkle on the garlic powder, onion granules, Italian seasoning, paprika, and red chili flakes. This layering lets the chicken soak up the aromatic sauce and spices as it cooks to tender perfection.

Step 3: Slow Cook the Chicken

Cover your CrockPot and set it to LOW for about 4 hours. This slow and steady method allows the chicken breasts to become incredibly juicy and infused with the rich flavors of the sauce and spices.

Step 4: Shred and Combine Chicken

Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks right in the pot. Return the shredded chicken to the sauce and give everything a good mix to blend those delicious flavors throughout.

Step 5: Add Tortellini and Dairy

Next, add the cheese tortellini, shredded mozzarella cheese, and heavy cream to the slow cooker. Stir everything well so the creamy sauce coats every bit of pasta and chicken evenly.

Step 6: Final Cooking and Adding Greens

Cook on LOW for another 30 minutes to let the tortellini soften and the cheese melt perfectly. In the last 10 minutes, stir in the baby spinach so it wilts gently, adding a pop of color and freshness to the dish.

Step 7: Finish with Parmesan and Season

Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top, stir through, and taste for seasoning. Adjust salt or spices if you like, then you’re all set to enjoy your beautifully creamy and comforting CrockPot Chicken Tortellini.

How to Serve CrockPot Chicken Tortellini

Garnishes

To brighten up the dish and add a layer of extra flavor, sprinkle fresh chopped basil or parsley right before serving. A drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil adds a glossy finish and enhances the sauce’s richness.

Side Dishes

This dish is a hearty meal on its own, but consider pairing it with a crisp green side salad or some garlic bread for dipping into the luscious sauce. Roasted vegetables like zucchini or asparagus also complement the creamy pasta beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a bit of fun, serve CrockPot Chicken Tortellini in shallow bowls topped with a little extra cheese and a crack of black pepper. If you’re entertaining, prepare it in small individual ramekins for a charming, personal touch that makes guests feel extra special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover CrockPot Chicken Tortellini in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it an easy choice for next-day lunches or quick dinners.

Freezing

If you want to freeze portions, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags. Freeze for up to 2 months. Just note that the texture of the pasta may soften a bit after freezing, but the flavors will still be delightful.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the dish gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. If the sauce has thickened too much, stir in a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive its creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts in this CrockPot Chicken Tortellini?

Yes, frozen chicken breasts can be used, but you’ll want to increase the cooking time by about an hour to ensure they cook through completely and become tender.

Is it possible to use store-bought marinara sauce?

Absolutely! Using a quality store-bought marinara sauce can save time and still yield excellent results, but if you prefer, homemade sauce works wonderfully too.

Can I substitute the cheese tortellini with a different pasta?

You can swap tortellini for other pasta shapes, but keep in mind cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly.

What if I want the dish spicier?

Simply add more red chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to taste. The slow cooker really amplifies flavors, so add spices gradually.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Definitely! This CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is ideal for meal prepping as it stores well, reheats easily, and is filling enough to keep you satisfied through busy days.

Final Thoughts

There you have it, a truly comforting, effortless CrockPot Chicken Tortellini recipe that’s bursting with flavor and soul-soothing goodness. It’s the kind of meal that practically makes itself while you relax, and the payoff is big on taste and happiness. I can’t wait for you to give this recipe a try and share it with your loved ones—it’s a guaranteed favorite!

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