Crockpot Chicken Tortellini: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Name: Crockpot Chicken Tortellini
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 280 min
Total time: 295 min
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds chicken breast (about 4 medium breasts); 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion granules; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning mix; 0.5 teaspoon paprika; 0.25 teaspoon red chili flakes; 1.5 cups chicken broth; 1 pound cheese tortellini; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 0.5 cup heavy cream; 2 cups baby spinach; 0.33 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Introduction to Crockpot Chicken Tortellini

Crockpot Chicken Tortellini is a delightful and hearty dish that warms the soul and satisfies the tummy. Made effortlessly in your slow cooker, this recipe combines tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and a rich marinara sauce for a meal that’s both comforting and delicious. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends when you want a filling dish with minimal effort. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy a nutritious meal that the whole family will love.

A Personal Story Behind My Crockpot Chicken Tortellini Journey

Growing up, my family often gathered around the dinner table, and one of our favorite meals was a creamy pasta dish. As I started cooking for my own family, I wanted to recreate that warmth and comfort. The first time I made this Crockpot Chicken Tortellini, I was amazed at how easy it was and how it brought everyone together, just like in my childhood. Now, it’s one of our go-to recipes, and I love sharing it with friends and family.

What Makes This Crockpot Chicken Tortellini Recipe Special?

This recipe stands out for its simplicity and flavor. The slow cooking process allows the chicken to become incredibly tender, while the tortellini absorbs all the delicious flavors of the marinara sauce and spices. The addition of baby spinach not only adds a pop of color but also boosts the nutritional value, making it a well-balanced meal. The creamy texture from the heavy cream and mozzarella cheese makes it feel indulgent, while still being easy enough for a weeknight dinner.

The Full Crockpot Chicken Tortellini Recipe

Ingredients

Olive oil spray
1 ½ pounds chicken breast (about 4 medium breasts)
2 cups marinara sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion granules
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning mix
½ teaspoon paprika
¼ teaspoon red chili flakes
1 ½ cups chicken broth
1 pound cheese tortellini
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup heavy cream
2 cups baby spinach
⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Spray your slow cooker with olive oil spray to prevent sticking.
Arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of the slow cooker.

Add marinara sauce, garlic powder, onion granules, Italian seasoning mix, paprika, red chili flakes, and chicken broth, ensuring the chicken is fully submerged. For added flavor, you can toss in a sprig of fresh basil if you have it on hand.
Cook on LOW for 4 hours or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the slow cooker for extra flavor infusion.
Add tortellini, shredded mozzarella cheese, and heavy cream. Stir well to cover the tortellini with liquid, ensuring they cook evenly.
Cover and cook on LOW for an additional 30 minutes until the tortellini are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Stir in the baby spinach and cook for an additional 10 minutes, until the spinach is wilted and vibrant.
Finally, mix in the grated Parmesan, adjust seasoning to taste, and serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for garnish.

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Crockpot Chicken Tortellini

This dish is perfect on its own, but you can enhance your meal by serving it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh garden salad. For a twist, consider adding different vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. If you want a spicier kick, increase the amount of red chili flakes or add some diced jalapeños. You can also switch up the cheese by using a blend of mozzarella and provolone for a different flavor profile.

Frequently Asked Questions About Crockpot Chicken Tortellini

Can I use frozen tortellini? Yes, frozen tortellini can be added directly to the slow cooker without thawing. Just increase the cooking time slightly.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients the night before and store them in the refrigerator. Just cook them the next day as directed.
What can I substitute for chicken? If you prefer, you can use turkey or even cooked sausage for a different flavor.