CrockPot Chicken Tortellini
This CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is the perfect cozy meal for any night of the week. It’s a simple dish that combines tender chicken with cheesy tortellini, all simmered in a rich marinara sauce. Ideal for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe promises to please even the pickiest eaters. With minimal prep time and easy clean-up, you can enjoy a comforting meal without the hassle.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Cooking: Just toss everything into your CrockPot and let it do the work while you relax.
- Flavorful Combination: The blend of marinara sauce, spices, and cheeses creates a rich taste that everyone will love.
- Family-Friendly: This dish is sure to satisfy both adults and kids alike, making it perfect for family meals.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the recipe by adding veggies or using different types of tortellini.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Prepare it ahead of time; just reheat when you’re ready to serve!
Tools and Preparation
To make this CrockPot Chicken Tortellini, you’ll need some essential tools. These will help streamline your cooking process and ensure great results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Mixing spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: This is crucial for slow-cooking your chicken to perfection without constant monitoring.
- Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure that the flavors are balanced perfectly in your dish.
- Sharp knife: A sharp knife makes it easier to slice chicken or vegetables, ensuring safety and efficiency in prep.
Ingredients
This Crockpot chicken tortellini is a cozy yet super easy meal that will please even the pickiest eaters!
Protein
- Olive oil spray
- 1 1/2 lb chicken breast (about 4 medium breasts)
Sauce and Spices
- 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
Main Components
- 1 lb cheese tortellini
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
Creamy Finish
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Fresh Greens
- 2 cups baby spinach
Topping
- 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). This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Step 2: Arrange the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in a single layer on the bottom of the slow cooker.
Step 3: Add Sauces and Seasonings
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 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 it has reached an internal temperature of 165°F.
Step 5: Shred the Chicken
Remove the cooked chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
Step 6: Combine Remaining Ingredients
Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker. Add in the tortellini, shredded mozzarella cheese, and heavy cream. Stir well to ensure everything is mixed evenly and that the tortellini are fully covered by liquid.
Step 7: Cook Tortellini
Cover your slow cooker again and cook on LOW for another 30 minutes until the tortellini are tender.
Step 8: Add Spinach
Stir in the baby spinach and continue to cook for an additional 10 minutes until wilted.
Step 9: Final Touches
Finally, stir in grated Parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning as needed before serving immediately.
Enjoy your delicious CrockPot Chicken Tortellini!
How to Serve CrockPot Chicken Tortellini
Serving CrockPot chicken tortellini can be a fun and creative experience. This dish is versatile and can be paired with various sides and garnishes to enhance its flavor. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to consider.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Basil or Parsley: Chopped fresh basil or parsley adds a burst of color and freshness to the dish.
- Chili Flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, sprinkle some red chili flakes on top before serving.
Add a Side Salad
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad complements the richness of the tortellini.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a refreshing side that balances the meal.
Serve with Crusty Bread
- Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread pairs perfectly for dipping into the sauce.
- French Baguette: A sliced baguette is great for soaking up the delicious marinara sauce.
Pair with Wine
- White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc makes for an excellent pairing with this comforting dish.
- Red Wine: For red wine lovers, a medium-bodied Chianti enhances the flavors beautifully.
How to Perfect CrockPot Chicken Tortellini
Perfecting your CrockPot chicken tortellini can elevate your cooking game. Here are some helpful tips to ensure delicious results every time.
- Choose Quality Chicken: Use fresh, high-quality chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the spices based on your personal taste preferences; this recipe is very forgiving!
- Monitor Cooking Time: Make sure not to overcook the chicken; it should be tender but not dry.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and real cheese will enhance the overall taste compared to frozen or processed options.
- Stir Gently: When adding tortellini, stir gently to avoid breaking them apart in the slow cooker.
- Let it Rest Before Serving: Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking; this helps meld the flavors together.
Best Side Dishes for CrockPot Chicken Tortellini
To round out your meal, consider these tasty side dishes that pair wonderfully with CrockPot chicken tortellini. Each option complements the main dish perfectly while adding more variety to your table.
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside; perfect for dipping into sauce.
- Steamed Broccoli: Adds a healthy touch; simply steam until tender and season lightly.
- Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances out the rich flavors of tortellini.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots roasted until caramelized provide sweetness.
- Risotto: Creamy risotto can add a comforting element alongside your pasta dish.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Baked mushrooms filled with cheese make for an elegant side option.
- Antipasto Platter: A mix of olives, cured meats, and cheeses adds variety and excitement to your meal.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast to creamy tortellini.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making CrockPot Chicken Tortellini can be simple, but common mistakes can hinder the final result. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Skipping the seasoning: Not using enough spices can lead to bland flavors. Always season your ingredients well for the best taste.
- Overcrowding the slow cooker: Packing too much into the pot may prevent even cooking. Stick to the recommended amounts for optimal results.
- Ignoring cooking times: Cooking for too long can dry out your chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.
- Not shredding the chicken properly: Leaving large pieces of chicken can impact texture. Make sure to shred it finely for even distribution throughout the dish.
- Forgetting to stir in ingredients: Failing to mix in tortellini and cheese thoroughly may lead to uneven cooking. Stir well after adding these ingredients.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing CrockPot Chicken Tortellini
- Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
- Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags.
- It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating CrockPot Chicken Tortellini
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and cover with foil. Heat for 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of broth and heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making CrockPot Chicken Tortellini.
Can I use frozen chicken breast for CrockPot Chicken Tortellini?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours on LOW.
What type of marinara sauce is best?
Choose a marinara sauce that you enjoy, whether homemade or store-bought, as it greatly affects flavor.
How do I customize my CrockPot Chicken Tortellini?
Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish holds up well when stored and reheated, making it perfect for meal prep.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute chicken with firm tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Final Thoughts
CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is not only an easy meal but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite veggies or spices, ensuring everyone at your table enjoys it. Try this cozy recipe tonight; it’s sure to become a household favorite!
CrockPot Chicken Tortellini
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is the ultimate cozy dish that combines tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and a rich marinara sauce—all effortlessly cooked in your slow cooker. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this meal requires minimal prep and offers maximum flavor. Simply toss in the ingredients and let the CrockPot do the work while you enjoy quality time with loved ones. This creamy, comforting pasta dish is sure to become a household favorite, pleasing even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lb chicken breast
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 lb cheese tortellini
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups fresh spinach
Instructions
- Spray the slow cooker with olive oil.
- Place chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom.
- Add marinara sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and chicken broth; ensure chicken is submerged.
- Cook on LOW for 4 hours until chicken reaches 165°F; shred after cooking.
- Return shredded chicken to the slow cooker along with tortellini, mozzarella cheese, and heavy cream; stir well.
- Cook on LOW for an additional 30 minutes until tortellini are tender.
- Stir in baby spinach and cook for another 10 minutes until wilted.
- Mix in grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours and 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
