CrockPot Chicken Tortellini

This CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is a cozy yet super easy meal that will please even the pickiest eaters! Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish combines tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and a delightful marinara sauce. Its unique features make it a standout choice for anyone looking to enjoy a comforting meal with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work for you!
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of marinara sauce and Italian spices creates a savory flavor that everyone will love.
• Versatile Dish: Great for lunch or dinner, and perfect for meal prep throughout the week.
• Family-Friendly: A delicious meal that even kids will ask for seconds!
• Rich and Creamy: The addition of heavy cream and cheese creates a luscious texture that enhances every bite.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making this CrockPot Chicken Tortellini, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Serving spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: The star of this recipe, allowing you to set it and forget it while your dish cooks slowly to perfection.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accurate ingredient amounts for consistent results every time.
• Serving spoon: Ideal for mixing ingredients and serving up delicious portions at the end.

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Ingredients

This CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is a cozy yet super easy meal that will please even the pickiest eaters!

For the Main Dish

• 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
• 1 lb cheese tortellini
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 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 to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Add the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of the slow cooker.

Step 3: Mix in the Sauce and Spices

Add the marinara sauce, garlic powder, onion granules, Italian seasoning mix, paprika, red chili flakes, and chicken broth. Ensure the chicken is fully submerged in the liquid.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Cover and cook on LOW for 4 hours or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to check.

Step 5: Shred the Chicken

Remove the cooked chicken from the slow cooker. Shred it with two forks before returning it back to the pot.

Step 6: Add Tortellini and Cheese

Stir in the tortellini, shredded mozzarella cheese, and heavy cream. Mix well until all tortellini are covered by liquid.

Step 7: Cook Until Tender

Cover again and cook on LOW for an additional 30 minutes or until tortellini are tender.

Step 8: Stir in Spinach

Add baby spinach to the mixture. Continue cooking for another 10 minutes until wilted.

Step 9: Final Touches

Stir in grated Parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning if needed and serve immediately for best flavor!

How to Serve CrockPot Chicken Tortellini

CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is a delightful and hearty dish that can be served in various ways. Here are some fantastic serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

With Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.
• Chives: Add finely chopped chives for a mild onion flavor that complements the dish perfectly.

Accompanied by Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Crusty Rolls: Offer crusty rolls for a rustic touch that pairs well with the creamy tortellini.

Salad Pairings

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, and Parmesan cheese enhances the meal with crunch.
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad dressed with vinaigrette adds freshness and lightness to your plate.

How to Perfect CrockPot Chicken Tortellini

To ensure your CrockPot Chicken Tortellini turns out wonderfully every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh chicken breasts and quality marinara sauce for the best flavor.
• Adjust Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to taste and adjust seasonings as needed throughout the cooking process.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the cooking time to prevent overcooking, especially with tortellini.
• Add Vegetables Later: For a fresher taste, add delicate vegetables like spinach towards the end of cooking.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try using different types of cheese such as provolone or fontina for a unique twist.
• Cool Before Storing: Let leftovers cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the fridge.

Best Side Dishes for CrockPot Chicken Tortellini

CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is rich and filling, making thoughtful side dishes essential to complete your meal. Here are some great options.

1. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic and butter are perfect for dipping in sauce.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer refreshing contrast.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a healthy green element that balances the richness of tortellini.
4. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables provides vibrant color and flavor alongside your dish.
5. Antipasto Platter: A variety of olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables make for an interesting appetizer before diving into the main course.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon vinaigrette offers a nutritious side full of protein and fiber.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your CrockPot Chicken Tortellini even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Ignoring the cooking time: Cooking your chicken for too long or not long enough can affect texture. Always follow the recommended cooking time for best results.
• Not shredding the chicken properly: If you don’t shred the chicken well, it may not blend with the sauce and tortellini. Use two forks to pull apart the chicken evenly.
• Overcrowding the slow cooker: Placing too much in the CrockPot can lead to uneven cooking. Stick to the recommended ingredients and amounts for optimal results.
• Skipping the seasoning adjustments: Tasting and adjusting seasonings after cooking is key. Don’t skip this step as it enhances flavor.
• Using frozen tortellini: Frozen tortellini may not cook evenly in a slow cooker. Opt for fresh or thawed tortellini for best texture.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing CrockPot Chicken Tortellini

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating CrockPot Chicken Tortellini

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place serving size in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat gently on low in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until heated throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is CrockPot Chicken Tortellini?

CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is a comforting dish made with chicken, cheese tortellini, marinara sauce, and spices cooked slowly in a CrockPot.

How do I know when my chicken is done?

Ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) using a meat thermometer. This guarantees it’s safe to eat.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or substitute with different types of tortellini for variety.

How do I store leftovers of CrockPot Chicken Tortellini?

Store leftover CrockPot Chicken Tortellini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

This CrockPot Chicken Tortellini recipe is both cozy and easy to prepare, making it perfect for any weeknight meal. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various ingredients according to your taste preferences. Try this delightful dish today!