Why Make This Recipe
CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is a fantastic dish for busy families or individuals who want a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe is simple, requires minimal prep time, and lets the slow cooker do all the work. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful marinara, and cheesy tortellini creates a comforting meal that is sure to please everyone. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or spices!
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.
- Pour the marinara sauce and 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, and heavy cream, stirring well.
- Cook on LOW for another 30 minutes.
- Stir in the spinach and cook for 10 more minutes.
- Add the Parmesan cheese, taste, and adjust seasoning as needed.
How to Serve CrockPot Chicken Tortellini
This dish is best served hot and can be enjoyed straight from the slow cooker. You can garnish it with extra Parmesan cheese and some fresh herbs for added flavor. A side salad or garlic bread fits perfectly with this meal, making it even more enjoyable.
How to Store CrockPot Chicken Tortellini
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for 3 to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stove on low heat until heated through. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container.
Tips to Make CrockPot Chicken Tortellini
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in marinara sauce for an hour before cooking.
- Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for more nutrients.
- Ensure the shredded chicken is well mixed with the sauce to keep it moist and flavorful.
Variation
You can modify this recipe by using ground turkey or sausage instead of chicken for a different taste. Additionally, you can switch the type of cheese tortellini to spinach or mushroom tortellini for more variety.
FAQs
1. Can I cook this recipe on high?
Yes, you can cook it on HIGH for about 2 hours, but the chicken may not be as tender.
2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make this gluten-free, use gluten-free tortellini and ensure that the marinara sauce is gluten-free as well.
3. Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, you can use frozen tortellini. Just add it to the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.