Why Make This Recipe
CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is an easy and delicious dish that is perfect for busy weeknights. With minimal prep time and the convenience of a slow cooker, this recipe allows you to enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The flavors of the marinara sauce, spices, and creamy cheese blend beautifully to create a comforting meal that the whole family will love.
How to Make CrockPot Chicken Tortellini
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:
- Spray the slow cooker with olive oil.
- Arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of the cooker.
- Pour the marinara sauce and sprinkle the spices over the chicken.
- Cover and set the slow cooker to LOW for about 4 hours.
- After 4 hours, shred the cooked chicken with forks.
- Return the shredded chicken to the cooker and mix it with the sauce.
- Add the tortellini, mozzarella cheese, and heavy cream, stirring well to combine everything.
- Cook on LOW for another 30 minutes.
- Stir in the baby spinach and cook for 10 more minutes.
- Finally, add the grated Parmesan cheese, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed.
How to Serve CrockPot Chicken Tortellini
Serve the CrockPot Chicken Tortellini warm from the slow cooker. It can be garnished with fresh basil or extra Parmesan cheese for added flavor. This dish pairs well with a simple salad or some garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
How to Store CrockPot Chicken Tortellini
To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Just remember to thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Tips to Make CrockPot Chicken Tortellini
- Make sure to cut the chicken into even pieces for consistent cooking.
- Adjust the spices according to your taste; add more chili flakes for extra heat.
- For a lighter version, you can use low-fat cheese or skip the heavy cream.
Variation
You can easily customize this recipe by adding vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. Additionally, using different types of tortellini, such as those filled with spinach or meat, can change the flavor profile.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just increase the cooking time by an hour or so.
Q: Can I add other vegetables?
A: Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots for extra nutrition.
Q: How do I reheat leftovers?
A: Reheat leftovers in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through. If it seems dry, add a splash of chicken broth or water.
