why make this recipe
CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is a wonderful dish that combines tender chicken and delightful cheese tortellini in a rich marinara sauce. It’s not only easy to make but also perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Using a slow cooker allows the flavors to blend beautifully, creating a comforting meal that everyone in the 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 chicken breasts in a single layer.
- Pour marinara sauce and spices over the chicken.
- Cover and set the slow cooker to LOW for about 4 hours.
- Shred cooked chicken with forks.
- Return shredded chicken to the cooker and mix with sauce.
- Add tortellini, mozzarella, and heavy cream, stirring well.
- Cook on LOW for another 30 minutes.
- Stir in spinach and cook for 10 more minutes.
- Add Parmesan cheese, taste, and adjust seasoning.
how to serve CrockPot Chicken Tortellini
Serve this dish hot, right from the slow cooker! You can enjoy it in bowls, topped with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese if desired. It pairs well with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
how to store CrockPot Chicken Tortellini
To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Then, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage, up to 2-3 months. Just make sure to reheat thoroughly before serving again.
tips to make CrockPot Chicken Tortellini
- For added flavor, you can marinate the chicken in the spices and marinara sauce for a few hours before cooking.
- Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- If you like it spicy, increase the amount of red chili flakes.
variation
You can substitute the chicken with turkey or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian option. Swap out the cheese tortellini with your favorite pasta shape if desired.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just increase the cooking time by an hour or so until fully cooked.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything the night before, keep it in the fridge, and cook it the next day.
3. What can I serve with it?
This dish goes well with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
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CrockPot Chicken Tortellini
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs 1 ½ lbs chicken breast (about 4 medium breasts)
- 2 cups 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon onion granules
- 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning mix
- 0.5 teaspoon ½ teaspoon paprika
- 0.25 teaspoon ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes
- 1.5 cups 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 lbs 1 lb cheese tortellini
- 1 cup 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 0.5 cup ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 cups 2 cups baby spinach
- 0.33 cup ⅓ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions
Preparation
- Spray the slow cooker with olive oil.
- Arrange chicken breasts in a single layer.
- Pour marinara sauce and spices over the chicken.
- Cover and set the slow cooker to LOW for about 4 hours.
- Shred cooked chicken with forks.
- Return shredded chicken to the cooker and mix with sauce.
- Add tortellini, mozzarella, and heavy cream, stirring well.
- Cook on LOW for another 30 minutes.
- Stir in spinach and cook for 10 more minutes.
- Add Parmesan cheese, taste, and adjust seasoning.
