CrockPot Chicken Tortellini

This CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is a delightful meal that combines convenience with comforting flavors, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. With tender chicken, creamy cheese tortellini, and a rich marinara sauce, this dish is sure to impress. Not only does it cater to various tastes, but it’s also simple to prepare, allowing you to enjoy time with loved ones while it cooks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Simply throw all the ingredients into your crockpot and let it do the work.
• Flavorful Meal: The blend of spices and creamy cheese creates a deliciously satisfying dish.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily modify the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This recipe makes generous servings that are great for meal prep or leftovers.
• Family-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will love this comforting bowl of goodness.

Tools and Preparation

To make this CrockPot Chicken Tortellini, you’ll need a few essential tools that make cooking easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Forks (for shredding chicken)

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: Allows for hands-free cooking while developing deep flavors over time.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient quantities for consistent results.

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Ingredients

This Crockpot chicken tortellini is a cozy yet super easy meal that will please even the pickiest eaters!

For the Chicken Base

• Olive oil spray
• 1 1/2 lb chicken breast (about 4 medium breasts)
• 2 cups marinara sauce

For Seasoning

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion granules
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning mix
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes

For Cooking

• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth

For the Tortellini Dish

• 1 lb cheese tortellini
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

For Finishing Touches

• 2 cups baby spinach
• 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)

How to Make CrockPot Chicken Tortellini

Step 1: Prepare Your Slow Cooker

First, spray your slow cooker with olive oil or a non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Layer the Chicken

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

Step 3: Add Remaining Ingredients

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

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

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

Step 5: Shred the Chicken

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

Step 6: Combine Tortellini and Cheese

Return shredded chicken to the slow cooker. Add in tortellini, shredded mozzarella cheese, and heavy cream. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 7: Cook Tortellini

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

Step 8: Add Spinach

Stir in baby spinach and continue cooking for another 10 minutes until wilted.

Step 9: Finish with Parmesan

Finally, stir in grated Parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning as necessary before serving immediately.

How to Serve CrockPot Chicken Tortellini

CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is a delightful meal that can be served in various ways to suit any occasion. Whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy gathering, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

Add a Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with creamy dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese.
• Caprese Salad: Sliced tomatoes and fresh mozzarella drizzled with balsamic glaze for a refreshing touch.

Pair with Crunchy Bread

• Garlic Bread: Toasted bread topped with garlic butter, perfect for scooping up the tortellini.
• Focaccia: Soft, herb-infused bread that complements the flavors of the dish beautifully.

Garnish with Herbs

• Fresh Basil: Sprinkle chopped basil on top for an aromatic finish.
• Parsley: Use chopped parsley to add color and freshness to each serving.

How to Perfect CrockPot Chicken Tortellini

To make sure your CrockPot Chicken Tortellini turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh chicken and herbs can elevate the flavor significantly.
• Adjust seasoning based on preference: Taste the sauce before adding tortellini and adjust spices as needed.
• Cook tortellini just right: Add tortellini only toward the end of cooking to ensure they remain firm and do not overcook.
• Experiment with cheese varieties: Mixing different cheeses can create a unique flavor profile.
• Keep it moist: If the mixture looks dry, add extra broth or cream for creaminess.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes helps enhance the flavors.

Best Side Dishes for CrockPot Chicken Tortellini

Adding side dishes can complete your meal. Here are some great options to serve alongside your CrockPot Chicken Tortellini.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting side.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers a nutritious and colorful contrast.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender adds great texture.
4. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables provides a flavorful starter.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light salad made with quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and lemon dressing is refreshing.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn pairs well with creamy dishes and is always a crowd-pleaser.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can help you achieve the best CrockPot Chicken Tortellini. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Ignoring chicken quality: Always use fresh or properly thawed chicken. Frozen chicken may not cook evenly and could lead to food safety issues.
• Overcooking the tortellini: Tortellini can become mushy if cooked too long. Keep an eye on the time and check for tenderness at the 30-minute mark.
• Not seasoning enough: This dish relies on flavor from seasonings. Adjust spices and add salt or pepper as needed before serving for a tastier result.
• Skipping the cheese: Cheese adds creaminess and flavor. Be sure to include both mozzarella and Parmesan to enhance your dish.
• Neglecting spinach: Adding spinach at the right time is key. Incorporate it during the last 10 minutes of cooking to maintain its bright color and nutrients.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing CrockPot Chicken Tortellini

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, ensuring to remove excess air.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating CrockPot Chicken Tortellini

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe container, covered loosely. Stir halfway through and heat for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making CrockPot Chicken Tortellini:

Can I use other proteins in CrockPot Chicken Tortellini?

You can easily substitute chicken with turkey or beef for a different flavor profile while keeping the recipe similar.

How do I make CrockPot Chicken Tortellini vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version, replace chicken with roasted vegetables or beans and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What can I serve with CrockPot Chicken Tortellini?

This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread to complement its rich flavors.

How do I adjust spice levels in my CrockPot Chicken Tortellini?

To control spice levels, adjust the amount of red chili flakes according to your preference or omit them entirely for a milder dish.

Final Thoughts

CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is a warm, comforting meal that is perfect for busy weeknights. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different proteins or vegetables based on your preferences. Give it a try and enjoy this delightful combination that everyone will love!