CrockPot Chicken Tortellini
This CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, this recipe combines tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and a creamy sauce that even the pickiest eaters will love. With minimal prep time and the convenience of a slow cooker, you can set it and forget it while enjoying the delicious aroma filling your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Cooking: Just throw everything in the slow cooker, and let it do the work for you.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of marinara sauce and spices creates a savory dish that’s packed with flavor.
- Family-Friendly: This meal is sure to please kids and adults alike, making it perfect for family dinners.
- One-Pot Meal: Enjoy easy cleanup with all ingredients cooked in one pot.
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite veggies or switch up the cheese to suit your family’s taste.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this comforting recipe, it’s essential to have the right tools to ensure success. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare your CrockPot Chicken Tortellini.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Meat thermometer
- Mixing spoon
- Forks (for shredding chicken)
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow Cooker: This is crucial for hands-free cooking, allowing flavors to meld beautifully over hours.
- Meat Thermometer: Ensures your chicken is cooked safely to an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Mixing Spoon: Helps combine ingredients well for even cooking and flavor distribution.
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
- 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
For the Tortellini
- 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
Spray your slow cooker with olive oil (or a non-stick cooking spray).
Step 2: Add Chicken Breasts
Arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer on the bottom of the slow cooker.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
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.
Step 4: Cook Chicken
Cook on LOW for 4 hours or until the chicken is cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F.
Step 5: Shred Chicken
Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
Step 6: Mix in Tortellini & Cheese
Return shredded chicken to the slow cooker. Add tortellini, shredded mozzarella cheese, and heavy cream. Stir well to ensure tortellini are covered by liquid.
Step 7: Cook Tortellini
Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for another 30 minutes until tortellini are tender.
Step 8: Add Spinach
Stir in baby spinach and continue cooking for another 10 minutes.
Step 9: Finish with Parmesan
Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, adjust seasoning if needed, and serve immediately.
How to Serve CrockPot Chicken Tortellini
CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will elevate this comforting meal.
With Fresh Herbs
- Basil: Sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top for a burst of flavor.
- Parsley: Chopped parsley adds a fresh touch and brightens the dish.
Accompanied by Garlic Bread
- Garlic Breadsticks: Serve warm garlic breadsticks on the side for a perfect dip into the delicious sauce.
- Toasted Baguette Slices: Crispy baguette slices are ideal for enjoying every bit of the creamy sauce.
As a Salad Pairing
- Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad complements the richness of the tortellini well.
- Spinach Salad: A light spinach salad with vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast.
Topped with Extra Cheese
- Parmesan Cheese: Grate extra Parmesan on top just before serving for added richness.
- Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta can provide a tangy twist to each bite.
How to Perfect CrockPot Chicken Tortellini
To ensure your CrockPot Chicken Tortellini turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use high-quality marinara sauce: The flavor of your sauce significantly impacts the overall taste. Opt for brands that you enjoy or make your own.
- Avoid overcooking the chicken: Keep an eye on cooking times to ensure the chicken remains tender and juicy. Use a meat thermometer for accurate results.
- Stir gently when adding tortellini: To prevent them from breaking apart, stir delicately once you add the tortellini to the slow cooker.
- Customize seasoning levels: Taste and adjust spices according to your preference. Feel free to add more garlic or chili flakes for extra kick.
- Let it sit before serving: Allowing the dish to rest for a few minutes helps flavors meld together beautifully.
- Store leftovers properly: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Best Side Dishes for CrockPot Chicken Tortellini
Pairing side dishes with CrockPot Chicken Tortellini can enhance your meal. Here are some delicious options that complement this dish perfectly.
- Garlic Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted with garlic brings color and nutrients to your plate.
- Caprese Salad: This classic salad made with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil adds freshness and acidity.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides crunch and balances out the creamy tortellini.
- Italian Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad with olives, peppers, and Italian dressing adds variety and texture.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob is simple yet enjoyable alongside this hearty meal.
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes and herbs offers a bright starter before diving into your main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
It’s easy to make a few mistakes when preparing CrockPot Chicken Tortellini. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.
- Skipping the chicken broth: Not using enough chicken broth can lead to dry chicken. Always ensure the chicken is submerged for optimal flavor and texture.
- Overcooking the tortellini: Cooking tortellini for too long can make them mushy. Follow the recommended time for best results.
- Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Relying solely on the recipe can lead to bland flavors. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed throughout cooking.
- Using low-quality cheese: Cheap cheese can affect the creaminess and flavor. Opt for good quality mozzarella and Parmesan for a richer dish.
- Ignoring ingredient temperature: Adding cold ingredients can slow down cooking time. Ensure your broth and cream are at room temperature before adding them to the slow cooker.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing CrockPot Chicken Tortellini
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating CrockPot Chicken Tortellini
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat gently over medium-low heat, stirring often until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about CrockPot Chicken Tortellini that may help you prepare this comforting dish.
What is CrockPot Chicken Tortellini?
CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is a hearty dish featuring tender chicken simmered in marinara sauce with cheese tortellini, perfect for cozy dinners.
How long does it take to cook CrockPot Chicken Tortellini?
It takes approximately 4 hours on LOW for the chicken, followed by another 40 minutes with the tortellini added.
Can I customize my CrockPot Chicken Tortellini?
Yes! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini or substitute different types of cheese based on your preference.
Is CrockPot Chicken Tortellini healthy?
This dish offers a balance of protein from chicken and carbohydrates from tortellini. Adjusting cheese and cream portions can enhance its healthiness.
Final Thoughts
CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it a family favorite. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or spices to suit your taste!
CrockPot Chicken Tortellini
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is the ultimate comfort food that combines tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and a creamy marinara sauce for a dish your entire family will love. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, this slow cooker recipe allows you to set it and forget it while the aromas of savory spices fill your kitchen. With minimal prep time and all ingredients cooked in one pot, you can enjoy a hearty meal with easy cleanup. Customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or cheese for a personal touch. Get ready to indulge in this creamy, flavorful delight!
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs chicken breast
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 lb cheese tortellini
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups baby spinach
- Olive oil spray
- 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
Instructions
- Spray the inside of your slow cooker with olive oil.
- Place chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom.
- Pour in marinara sauce, garlic powder, onion granules, Italian seasoning, paprika, red chili flakes, and chicken broth—make sure chicken is submerged.
- Cook on LOW for 4 hours until chicken reaches 165°F.
- Shred the chicken using two forks and return it to the slow cooker.
- Add tortellini, mozzarella cheese, and heavy cream; stir gently.
- Cover and cook on LOW for another 30 minutes until tortellini are tender.
- Stir in spinach and cook for an additional 10 minutes.
- Finish with grated Parmesan 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: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 930mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
