The aroma wafting from your kitchen while the CrockPot Chicken Tortellini simmers is nothing short of heavenly. Imagine tender chunks of chicken bathed in a creamy sauce, surrounded by soft tortellini swimming like happy little doughy boats.
This dish is not just a meal; it’s a cozy hug on a plate. Whether you’re coming home from a long day or hosting friends for game night, this recipe fits the bill perfectly. The anticipation as you scoop out the first serving will have everyone gathering around the table like moths to a flame.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This easy-to-follow recipe makes dinner prep a breeze while delivering fantastic flavors
- You can adjust ingredients based on your pantry and dietary preferences
- Its inviting presentation makes it an instant crowd-pleaser at any gathering
- Plus, it’s so comforting that it feels like home on a plate
I remember the first time I made CrockPot Chicken Tortellini. My kids came running into the kitchen, drawn by the smell alone—when they took their first bites, I knew I had struck gold.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 pieces are ideal; they shred beautifully once cooked and soak up all that flavor.
- Fresh Garlic: Use 3-4 cloves for that aromatic punch; fresh garlic elevates every dish!
- Chicken Broth: A good quality broth adds depth; low-sodium options allow better control over saltiness.
- Cream Cheese: This brings creaminess and richness; let it soften before adding for easier mixing.
- Tortellini: Choose cheese or chicken tortellini; fresh or frozen works well and cooks up perfectly.
- Frozen Spinach: A handful adds nutrition without overpowering flavors; make sure to squeeze out excess moisture.
- Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that gives this dish its signature taste; feel free to customize it!
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated for garnish; it adds an extra layer of flavor when sprinkled on top before serving.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Gather your ingredients and let’s dive into this culinary adventure!
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by dicing the chicken into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. Mince the garlic finely for maximum flavor impact.
Sauté Garlic: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté minced garlic until fragrant—about 1 minute—being careful not to burn it.
Add Chicken: Toss in the diced chicken and cook until lightly browned on all sides—this step adds extra flavor!
Combine Ingredients in CrockPot: Transfer everything to your CrockPot along with chicken broth, cream cheese, Italian seasoning, and frozen spinach. Give it all a good stir until combined.
Add Tortellini: About 30 minutes before serving time, add tortellini into the mix. Stir gently so those pasta pockets don’t break apart.
Cook Until Done: Cover and cook on low for about 4 hours or high for 2 hours until chicken is tender and tortellini is cooked through; enjoy that lovely aroma filling your home!
Now you’ve got a warm bowl of comfort waiting for you! Don’t forget to sprinkle some Parmesan cheese on top right before serving—it makes everything taste even better!
Enjoy your deliciously creamy crockpot chicken tortellini with a side salad or crusty bread to soak up all those luscious flavors!
You Must Know
- This recipe for CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is not just about ease; it’s a hug in a bowl!
- The rich aroma fills your kitchen, making it feel like home
- Plus, you can adjust ingredients based on what’s lurking in your fridge
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by layering the chicken, broth, and spices at the bottom of your CrockPot. Add tortellini towards the end of cooking to keep it tender without turning mushy.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken for turkey or even mushrooms for a vegetarian delight. Toss in fresh spinach or kale for an extra nutrient boost!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth to retain moisture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To get the most flavor from your CrockPot Chicken Tortellini, sear the chicken first before adding it to the slow cooker
- Always taste and adjust seasoning near the end of cooking for best results
- Keep an eye on cooking time; overcooking can lead to mushy tortellini!
Cooking this dish reminds me of rainy Sundays spent with friends, each bite sparking laughter and warmth as we reminisced about life’s little adventures.
FAQ
Can I use frozen tortellini in my CrockPot Chicken Tortellini?
Absolutely! Just add them in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
How long does it take to cook CrockPot Chicken Tortellini?
Typically, about 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high heat.
What can I serve with this dish?
Serve with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
CrockPot Chicken Tortellini
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Indulge in this creamy CrockPot Chicken Tortellini recipe, combining tender chicken and flavorful tortellini in a rich sauce, perfect for busy weeknights and family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3–4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 9 oz tortellini (cheese or chicken)
- 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
Instructions
- Dice chicken into bite-sized pieces and mince the garlic.
- Sauté minced garlic in a skillet over medium heat until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Add diced chicken to the skillet and cook until lightly browned on all sides.
- Transfer the mixture to your CrockPot. Add chicken broth, cream cheese, Italian seasoning, and spinach; stir to combine.
- About 30 minutes before serving, gently stir in the tortellini.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours until chicken is tender and tortellini is cooked through.
- Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours on low / 2 hours on high
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
