Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stirred the pot, the warm, inviting aroma of marinara wafted through my kitchen, transporting me to a quaint Italian bistro. This is the magic of CrockPot Chicken Tortellini—a meal that combines tender chicken in a luscious sauce with cheesy tortellini that hugs each bite. Perfect for those cozy nights in, this recipe is more than just comfort food; it’s a delectable, fuss-free way to bring the family together over dinner. With just a few steps in your slow cooker, you’ll have a hearty dish ready to impress, making it ideal for busy weeknights when time is tight but flavor is a must. Curious to learn how this creamy delight comes together in your own kitchen? Let’s get cooking! Why is CrockPot Chicken Tortellini a Winner? Simplicity: This recipe requires minimal prep, thanks to the slow cooker doing most of the work while you kick back and relax. Creamy Comfort: The marriage of chicken, marinara, and cheese tortellini creates a rich and satisfying dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Family-Friendly: With its delightful flavors and kid-approved ingredients, it’s the perfect meal to bring everyone together—just like my Italian Ground Chicken recipe! Versatile: Want to switch it up? You can easily replace chicken with plant-based proteins or toss in extra veggies to cater to diverse tastes. Quick Cook Time: In just a few hours, dinner is served! This time-saving dish allows you to enjoy more moments with family and friends without the hassle of long cooking times. Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for gatherings, this dish will be a hit at any family dinner or casual get-together. Pair it with some garlic bread and you’ll be the hero of the evening! CrockPot Chicken Tortellini Ingredients For the Base • Olive Oil Spray – Prevents sticking in the slow cooker; cooking oil can also be used for easier cleanup. • Chicken Breast (1 ½ lbs) – Tender protein that absorbs the flavors from the sauce; frozen chicken can be a convenient substitute. • Marinara Sauce (2 cups) – Provides a rich, flavorful sauce; feel free to use homemade or your favorite store-bought version. • Garlic Powder (1 tsp) – Adds aromatic flavor; fresh garlic can bring an extra freshness if you prefer. • Onion Granules (1 tsp) – Enhances depth of taste; fresh, diced onion is an alternative but requires more prep time. • Italian Seasoning (1 tsp) – Infuses classic Italian flavors; you can mix individual herbs like oregano and basil for a personal touch. • Paprika (½ tsp) – Contributes mild heat and beautiful color; smoked paprika can add a delightful smokiness. • Red Chili Flakes (¼ tsp) – Delivers a kick of spice; adjust to your heat preference. • Chicken Broth (1 ½ cups) – Adds moisture and richness; substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist. For the Creamy Mixture • Cheese Tortellini (1 lb) – The main carbohydrate that gives this dish its hearty feel; use fresh or frozen tortellini, adjusting cooking times as needed. • Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup, shredded) – Brings creaminess and richness; feel free to substitute with dairy-free cheese if desired. • Heavy Cream (½ cup) – Provides a rich texture; lighter options like half-and-half or coconut cream work well too. • Baby Spinach (2 cups) – Adds nutrition and a pop of color; other greens such as kale can be a perfect substitute. • Parmesan Cheese (⅓ cup, grated) – The finishing touch that adds a burst of flavor; consider nutritional yeast for a vegan option. With all these ingredients ready, can you feel the comforting embrace of a warm bowl of CrockPot Chicken Tortellini waiting to be made? Let’s dive into the easy steps ahead! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for CrockPot Chicken Tortellini Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker Begin by spraying the interior of your slow cooker with olive oil to prevent sticking. This simple step ensures that the delicious CrockPot Chicken Tortellini releases easily once cooked. Set the cooker aside as you prepare the main ingredients. Step 2: Layer the Chicken Place the chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of the slow cooker. This allows the chicken to cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the sauce that will follow. Ensure they are arranged nicely, creating a sturdy base for your comforting meal. Step 3: Add the Sauce and Seasoning Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken, making sure to cover it completely. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion granules, Italian seasoning, paprika, red chili flakes, and chicken broth, ensuring the chicken breasts are fully immersed in the flavorful mixture. This creates a rich, aromatic environment in your CrockPot. Step 4: Cook the Chicken Cover the slow cooker and set it to LOW for about 4 hours. This slow cooking allows the chicken to become tender and ensures it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken easily shreds with a fork and is infused with the delightful flavors of the sauce. Step 5: Shred the Chicken Once cooked, remove the lid and use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the pot. Mix the shredded chicken with the marinara sauce, ensuring each piece is well-coated. This step guarantees that every bite of your CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is flavorful and tender. Step 6: Incorporate Tortellini and Cream Stir in the cheese tortellini, shredded mozzarella cheese, and heavy cream. Mixing these ingredients creates a creamy sauce that envelops the tortellini. Make sure to combine everything well, creating a luscious blend that will delight your taste buds. Step 7: Cook the Tortellini Cover the slow cooker and continue cooking on LOW for an additional 30 minutes. This allows the tortellini to cook through and absorb all the wonderful flavors. You’ll know they’re done when they are tender yet still hold their shape, ready to soak in the rich sauce. Step 8: Add Spinach After the tortellini is cooked, stir in the baby spinach and cover the slow cooker again. Allow the spinach to cook for an additional 10 minutes, until it wilts and brightens the dish. This step adds a pop of color and nutrition to your comforting meal. Step 9: Finish with Parmesan Finally, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top and adjust the seasoning to your taste. Stir gently to combine the cheese into the warm mixture. The addition of Parmesan enhances the richness of your CrockPot Chicken Tortellini, readying it for a fulfilling serving. Expert Tips for CrockPot Chicken Tortellini Even Cooking: Ensure chicken breasts are uniform in size for consistent cooking. This helps avoid undercooked pieces while ensuring a perfectly tender finish. Cream Alternative: If you prefer a lighter dish, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half. This keeps the texture creamy without being too rich. Frozen Tortellini: When using frozen tortellini, remember to increase the cooking time by 10-15 minutes to ensure they’re fully cooked and tender in your CrockPot Chicken Tortellini. Spice Control: Adjust the amount of red chili flakes to suit your heat preference. Start with less if you’re cooking for kids or those who prefer milder flavors. Flavor Enhancements: For an extra flavor kick, consider tossing in sun-dried tomatoes or a splash of hot sauce during the cooking process. These little additions can elevate the overall taste! What to Serve with Slow Cooker Chicken Tortellini Cozy up your dinner table with delightful sides that perfectly accompany your creamy, comforting dish. Garlic Bread: A crispy, buttery treat that’s perfect for soaking up the luscious marinara sauce. Mixed Green Salad: Fresh greens with a light vinaigrette offer a refreshing contrast, balancing the rich flavors of the tortellini. Add colorful bell peppers and cucumbers for extra crunch and vibrancy. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers bring an earthy sweetness and texture that complements the dish beautifully. The caramelization from roasting adds depth to your meal. White Wine: A glass of light, crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio enhances the Italian vibe and pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce. Italian Antipasto Platter: Create a charcuterie board with cured meats, olives, and cheeses for a delightful starter before diving into the main dish. Chocolate Lava Cake: End on a sweet note with a warm, gooey dessert that will please the whole family and leave them wanting more. By serving these delightful accompaniments alongside your CrockPot Chicken Tortellini, you’ll create a memorable meal that everyone will enjoy! CrockPot Chicken Tortellini Variations Feel free to give this recipe your own special twist—just imagine the fragrant aromas filling your kitchen! Vegetarian Delight: Swap out the chicken for hearty mushrooms or a plant-based protein, making it a delicious option for veggie lovers. Extra Veggies: Toss in diced bell peppers or baby carrots at the beginning for added nutrition and flavor that every family member will enjoy. Zesty Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like goat cheese or provolone to create unique flavor profiles that elevate your dish. Creamy Substitutions: Instead of heavy cream, try using coconut cream for a dairy-free version or half-and-half for a lighter touch without sacrificing creaminess. Brothy Boost: Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth to cater to vegetarian diets while still delivering that satisfying depth. Spicy Kick: Add a splash of hot sauce or a few more red chili flakes for an extra punch of heat that will warm you to your core! Pasta Swap: Change out tortellini for any pasta you have on hand, such as bow ties or rotini, adjusting cooking time accordingly for a new twist on texture. If you love this recipe, you might also enjoy my Hot Honey Chicken Bites or the rich flavors found in Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup. Why not mix things up and explore! How to Store and Freeze CrockPot Chicken Tortellini Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even warmth. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating. Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, heat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of chicken broth to refresh the creamy sauce if needed. Note: The creamy nature of the CrockPot Chicken Tortellini makes it vital to ensure it’s properly cooled before freezing to maintain texture and flavor quality. Make Ahead Options These CrockPot Chicken Tortellini are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the chicken, sauce, and seasonings and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Simply layer the chicken breasts and pour the marinara mixture over them in the slow cooker; cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. When it’s time to enjoy your meal, cook on LOW for about 4 hours, shred the chicken, and stir in the tortellini, mozzarella, and cream. This method maintains the dish’s rich flavors and ensures a seamless dinner experience without sacrificing quality! CrockPot Chicken Tortellini Recipe FAQs What type of chicken should I use for this recipe? I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best results. They’re tender and soak up the marinara sauce beautifully. If you’re in a pinch, frozen chicken works too—just make sure to cook it until it reaches 165°F to ensure it’s fully safe to eat. How should I store leftover CrockPot Chicken Tortellini? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave, giving it a stir halfway through to ensure even heating. You can also enjoy it cold—it’s delicious even as a pasta salad! Can I freeze CrockPot Chicken Tortellini? Absolutely! Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat gently on the stove or microwave. If the sauce looks a bit thick, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring it back to life! What can I do if the tortellini are too soft after cooking? If you find your tortellini turning too mushy, it might be because they were cooked too long. To prevent this next time, follow the cooking times closely, especially if using frozen tortellini, which may need a bit more time. If you do overcook them, rest assured that they will still taste great; just be prepared for a softer texture. Is this dish suitable for my vegetarian friends? Yes! To make it vegetarian-friendly, simply substitute the chicken with a plant-based protein and use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth. Additionally, you can increase the amount of baby spinach or add other veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition. Can I use homemade marinara sauce in this recipe? Absolutely! In fact, using homemade marinara sauce can elevate the flavors of your CrockPot Chicken Tortellini even further. Just ensure it’s a well-seasoned sauce that complements the dish well. Whether you choose store-bought or homemade, you’re on your way to a comforting, delicious meal! Cozy CrockPot Chicken Tortellini for Effortless Dinners CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is a comforting and easy meal that combines tender chicken, marinara sauce, and cheesy tortellini for a family-friendly dinner. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 4 hours hrs 30 minutes minsTotal Time 4 hours hrs 45 minutes mins Servings: 6 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 550 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Base1.5 lbs Chicken Breast Tender protein that absorbs the flavors from the sauce.2 cups Marinara Sauce Provides a rich, flavorful sauce.1 tsp Garlic Powder Adds aromatic flavor.1 tsp Onion Granules Enhances depth of taste.1 tsp Italian Seasoning Infuses classic Italian flavors.0.5 tsp Paprika Contributes mild heat and beautiful color.0.25 tsp Red Chili Flakes Delivers a kick of spice.1.5 cups Chicken Broth Adds moisture and richness.For the Creamy Mixture1 lb Cheese Tortellini The main carbohydrate that gives this dish its hearty feel.1 cup Mozzarella Cheese Brings creaminess and richness.0.5 cup Heavy Cream Provides a rich texture.2 cups Baby Spinach Adds nutrition and a pop of color.0.33 cup Parmesan Cheese The finishing touch that adds a burst of flavor. Equipment Slow Cooker Method Step-by-Step InstructionsSpray the interior of your slow cooker with olive oil to prevent sticking.Layer the chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of the slow cooker.Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken and sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion granules, Italian seasoning, paprika, red chili flakes, and chicken broth.Cover the slow cooker and set it to LOW for about 4 hours.Once cooked, shred the chicken directly in the pot with two forks and mix with the sauce.Stir in the cheese tortellini, shredded mozzarella cheese, and heavy cream.Cover the slow cooker and continue cooking on LOW for an additional 30 minutes.After the tortellini is cooked, stir in the baby spinach and cover the slow cooker again for an additional 10 minutes.Finally, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top and adjust the seasoning to your taste. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 36gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 20IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 10mg NotesEnsure chicken breasts are uniform in size for even cooking. You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter option. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
