Why Make This Recipe
CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is a comforting and hearty dish that fills the home with warm aromas. This recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. It is easy to prepare and requires minimal effort. Imagine coming home from a long day to a delicious meal ready in your slow cooker.
One of the best parts about this recipe is its versatility. It combines protein, pasta, and vegetables all in one dish. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and cheesy tortellini together create a delightful experience for your taste buds. Furthermore, using a slow cooker allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, making every bite better than the last.
Whether you are a busy parent, a student, or someone who just loves easy cooking, this recipe is a fantastic choice. It’s also great for meal prepping, so you can enjoy delicious lunches throughout the week. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to create your own CrockPot Chicken Tortellini, discuss how to serve and store it, and share some tips and variations to enhance your dish.
CrockPot Chicken Tortellini
Ingredients
Method
- Spray the inside of the slow cooker with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken and sprinkle spices evenly.
- Add the chicken broth on top of the chicken.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to LOW for about 4 hours.
- After 4 hours, shred the chicken with two forks right in the slow cooker.
- Return the shredded chicken to the cooker and mix in the tortellini, mozzarella cheese, and heavy cream.
- Cook on LOW for another 30 minutes.
- Stir in the baby spinach and cook for an additional 10 minutes.
- Finish by stirring in the grated Parmesan cheese and adjust seasoning if needed.
Nutrition
Notes
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Let us know how it was!How to Make CrockPot Chicken Tortellini
Making CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is simple and straightforward. Here’s how to whip up this delicious meal with easily available ingredients.
Ingredients
- Olive oil spray
- 1 ½ lbs 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 lb cheese tortellini
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 cups baby spinach
- ⅓ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Directions
Prepare the Slow Cooker: Start by spraying the inside of the slow cooker with olive oil. This helps prevent sticking and makes it easier to clean later.
Add Chicken: Take the chicken breasts and arrange them in a single layer at the bottom of the slow cooker. This ensures that they cook evenly.
Add Sauces and Spices: Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken. Sprinkle garlic powder, onion granules, Italian seasoning mix, paprika, and red chili flakes evenly over the chicken and sauce.
Pour in Chicken Broth: Add the chicken broth on top, making sure to cover the chicken and spices. This will keep the chicken moist and flavorful.
Cook the Chicken: Cover the slow cooker and set it to LOW for about 4 hours. The chicken will become tender and easy to shred.
Shred the Chicken: After 4 hours, check the chicken. It should be fully cooked and easy to shred. Use two forks to shred the chicken right in the slow cooker.
Mix in Tortellini and Cream: Return the shredded chicken to the cooker. Then add the cheese tortellini, mozzarella cheese, and heavy cream. Stir everything very well to combine.
Continue Cooking: Cover the slow cooker again and cook on LOW for another 30 minutes. This allows the tortellini to cook and absorb flavors from the sauce.
Add Spinach: After the 30 minutes are up, stir in the baby spinach. Cook for 10 more minutes until the spinach is wilted and tender.
Finish with Parmesan: Finally, sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir and taste, adjusting the seasoning if needed.
Your delicious CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is now ready to enjoy!
How to Serve CrockPot Chicken Tortellini
Serving CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is just as easy as making it! Here are a few ideas to make your meal even more enjoyable:
Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Consider garnishing your dish with fresh basil or parsley. This will add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor.
Serve with Bread: A loaf of garlic bread or a side of crusty bread pairs perfectly with this dish. It’s great for soaking up the delicious sauce.
Salad on the Side: A simple side salad can complement the richness of the chicken tortellini. A light vinaigrette would work well.
Serve Warm: Make sure to serve the dish warm. If it’s been sitting for a while in the slow cooker, give it a quick stir and warm it up before serving.
Individual Bowls: For a cozy presentation, serve in individual bowls. This makes it easy for guests to enjoy their meal.
How to Store CrockPot Chicken Tortellini
If you have leftovers (which is likely with this hearty dish), storing them properly will help maintain the flavors and textures:
Cool Down: Allow the dish to cool down to room temperature before storing.
Use Air-tight Containers: Transfer the leftovers to airtight containers. This will prevent the dish from drying out and preserve its flavor.
Refrigerate: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to label the containers with the date to keep track.
Freezing: If you want to store it for a longer period, you can freeze the dish. Place it in freezer-safe containers, and it will stay good for up to 3 months.
Reheat Properly: When you are ready to eat the leftovers, reheat in the microwave or on the stove. If frozen, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Tips to Make CrockPot Chicken Tortellini
Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, choose fresh chicken breasts, quality marinara sauce, and fresh spinach. Fresh ingredients enhance the flavors significantly.
Don’t Overcook: Make sure to monitor the cooking time. Overcooked chicken can become dry. The slow cooker does all the work, so keep an eye on the clock.
Customize Your Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. If you like it spicier, add more red chili flakes. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount.
Add Vegetables: You can add other vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to adjust cooking times if you use different vegetables.
Experiment with Cheeses: If you’re not a fan of mozzarella, try other cheeses like provolone or gouda for a different flavor profile.
Variation
This recipe can be adapted in many ways. Here are a few suggestions:
Different Proteins: Instead of chicken, you can use turkey or even sausages. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian twist, skip the chicken and use chickpeas. Also, you can add more vegetables like broccoli and carrots for a healthy boost.
Pasta Alternatives: If you can’t find cheese tortellini, other pasta varieties such as bow tie or penne can work. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
Creamy Herb Alternatives: If you like different flavors, consider using Alfredo sauce instead of marinara for a creamy version.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
2. Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make this dish on the stovetop. Simply use a large pot to cook the chicken and sauces on low heat, and then add the tortellini and continue as per directions.
3. How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken is done when it is no longer pink inside and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If it’s tough to shred, it may need more time to cook.
Now you have everything you need to create a delightful CrockPot Chicken Tortellini that you and your loved ones will enjoy. Happy cooking!