CrockPot Chicken Tortellini

Every time I prepare my CrockPot Chicken Tortellini, I’m reminded of the warmth of home and the magic that unfolds in a cozy kitchen. This recipe didn’t just find its way into my heart—it waltzed in on the coattails of a rainy afternoon, when all I wanted was something comforting and easy. With the rain tapping gently against the window, I gathered my ingredients and set to work, letting the rich scents of marinara and spices fill the air.

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As the chicken slowly cooked and aromas wafted around me, it felt like a warm hug from the inside out. That first spoonful transported me to a place where every bite is like a celebration of cozy family dinners and heartfelt conversations. Trust me, this dish weaves together tender chicken, delightful tortellini, and a creamy sauce that even the pickiest eater won’t be able to resist. It’s no wonder that once you try it, you’ll be coming back for seconds—and thirds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Just toss everything in the CrockPot, and let it work its magic. Minimal effort, maximum flavor!
• Quick Cooking Time: In just about 4.5 hours, you’ll have a delicious meal that feels like it took all day to prepare.
• Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with protein and nutrients, it’s a cozy dish you can feel good about serving your family.
• Flavor Explosion: With a blend of spices, cheese, and fresh ingredients, each bite is a delightful surprise.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners with friends—everyone will adore this dish!

Ingredients

• Olive oil spray: A quick spritz ensures your ingredients don’t stick—you’ll thank me later!
• 1 ½ lbs chicken breast (about 4 medium breasts): The heart of this dish; juicy and flavorful, they soak up all that delicious sauce.
• 2 cups marinara sauce: A rich base! Choose your favorite store-bought or homemade for extra love.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a lovely warmth; it’s the little things that pack a punch!
• 1 teaspoon onion granules: A sweet, savory touch that enhances the depth of flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning mix: The bouquet of Italian herbs that brings this dish to life.
• ½ teaspoon paprika: A pop of color and mild sweetness; divine with the cheese.
• ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes: A spark of heat to make your taste buds dance—adjust to your spice level!
• 1 ½ cups chicken broth: Keeps everything moist and adds another layer of flavor.
• 1 lb cheese tortellini: Because what’s a cozy meal without cheese?
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: Melty goodness that makes this dish irresistibly creamy.
• ½ cup heavy cream: Just a touch transforms the sauce into silky luxury.
• 2 cups baby spinach: Add some vibrant green goodness that wilts gently into the mix.
• ⅓ cup Parmesan cheese, grated: A finishing touch of tangy sweetness that ties everything together.

Full recipe card is below.

How to Make It

Step 1: Spray the Slow Cooker

Give your slow cooker a light spritz with olive oil spray to prevent anything from sticking. I promise it will make cleanup a breeze!

Step 2: Arrange the Chicken

Lay the chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of the slow cooker. They’ll cook evenly, soaking up all that luscious sauce.

Step 3: Pour It On

Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken, then sprinkle on the garlic powder, onion granules, Italian seasoning, paprika, and red chili flakes. Your kitchen will start smelling like a little slice of Italy!

Step 4: Cover and Cook

Pop the lid on your slow cooker and set it to LOW for about 4 hours. The magic will happen while you enjoy some downtime or tackle that to-do list!

Step 5: Shred the Chicken

Once the time’s up, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker—it’ll fall apart so easily! Give it a gentle stir to mix everything together like a big, happy family.

Step 6: Add Tortellini and Cream

Toss in the tortellini, mozzarella, and heavy cream. Stir well to coat everything in that inviting sauce.

Step 7: Simmer Again

Put the lid back on and let it cook on LOW for another 30 minutes. During this time, your kitchen will become the coziest spot in the house!

Step 8: Add Spinach

Fold in the baby spinach and let it cook for an additional 10 minutes. You’ll see how vibrant and beautiful this dish becomes, with the fresh green spinach adding a lovely color contrast.

Step 9: Final Touches

Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese, give it a taste, and adjust seasoning if needed. The blend of flavors will make you wonder why you ever thought dinner could be complicated!

Pro Tips for Success

• Use a meat thermometer: Chicken is perfectly cooked at 165°F. Safety first, friends!
• Opt for frozen tortellini: It cooks beautifully in the slow cooker and adds that delightful texture without the extra work.
• Play with spices: Don’t be shy! If you love basil or more heat, toss it in!
• Consider a side salad: Balance out the meal with something fresh and crunchy.

Flavor Variations

• Creamy Basil Pesto: Swap marinara for pesto for a different flavor profile and bright color.
• Seasonal Vegetables: Toss in seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrition and texture.
• Spicy Sausage: Substitute chicken for Italian sausage for a heartier twist!

Serving Suggestions

Serve your delightful CrockPot Chicken Tortellini in bowls topped with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs, like basil or parsley. Pair with crusty bread or a crisp side salad for a complete meal. A lovely glass of red wine will complement the flavors beautifully!

Make-Ahead & Storage

You can absolutely prep this meal by cutting your chicken and measuring your sauces and spices a day ahead! Store everything in the fridge, and just follow the cooking steps when you’re ready to enjoy.

To store leftovers, place your meal in an airtight container. It’s good in the fridge for up to 3 days, but I bet it won’t last that long!

Leftovers

Leftover Chicken Tortellini makes a fantastic lunch! You can toss it into a wrap, or mix it with greens for a salad. You could even use it as a base for a savory frittata. Creativity is your best friend!

Freezing

Want to make it ahead for a busy week? Yes, you can freeze this dish! Just let it cool completely, then pack it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

The best way to reheat? Use a skillet for that just-cooked freshness or pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. If you’re in a rush, the microwave works too—just stir often!

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?
Absolutely! Just add an extra hour of cooking time on LOW.

What if I don’t have a slow cooker?
You can adapt this for a stovetop by following similar steps in a large pot on low heat—just keep an eye on it!

Can I add vegetables to it?
Yes, please! Peppers, carrots, or mushrooms are all excellent choices; just chop them and add them in when you add the tortellini.

Is this dish gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free tortellini and ensure your broth and sauces are also gluten-free!

Final Thoughts

As we wrap up this cozy culinary journey, I hope you’ll feel empowered to create your own version of CrockPot Chicken Tortellini. No matter the occasion, it’s a dish that brings light to both your kitchen and your heart. Remember, every good meal is sprinkled with love, patience, and a bit of adventure. So grab your apron, give it a whirl, and don’t be surprised if your kitchen becomes the new family gathering spot! Happy cooking, friends!

Your full recipe card is below.