This Easy Crockpot Chicken Tortellini is a warm hug in a bowl! Tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and a creamy sauce all cook together in your slow cooker for a comforting meal.
I love throwing everything in the pot and letting it do its thing! It’s great for busy days when you want a delicious dinner without all the fuss. Plus, leftovers taste amazing!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe because they stay juicy while cooking. If you’re looking for a lighter option, skinless chicken thighs also work well.
Marinara Sauce: You can choose any marinara or tomato basil sauce you like. A store-bought brand makes it easy, but homemade sauce brings extra flavor! For a kick, try a spicy arrabbiata sauce instead.
Tortellini: I love using refrigerated cheese tortellini for its creamy filling. You can swap in frozen tortellini if that’s what you have on hand, just cook it a bit longer in the crockpot.
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess! If you want a healthier option, you can use Greek yogurt or a non-dairy cream cheese substitute for a lighter touch.
Spinach: Fresh baby spinach gives a nutritious boost and vibrant color. If you don’t have spinach, kale or arugula can be good alternatives, but add them towards the end of cooking.
How Do I Ensure the Tortellini Is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking tortellini in the crockpot is easy, but timing is key! After shredding the chicken, add the tortellini along with the cream cheese and Parmesan cheese. Cover and give it an extra 20-30 minutes on high. This way, it cooks just right without turning mushy.
- Make sure to stir everything well after adding the tortellini.
- Check for tenderness; it usually takes about 20 minutes.
- If using frozen tortellini, keep an eye on it, as it might need a bit longer.
With these tips, your Easy Crockpot Chicken Tortellini will be a hit at the dinner table! Enjoy your meal!
Easy Crockpot Chicken Tortellini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 (24 oz) jars of marinara or tomato basil pasta sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 9 oz (about 250g) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish requires about 10 minutes for prep and takes 5-6 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high for cooking. Afterward, just a few more minutes to mix in the tortellini and toppings, and you’ll be ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts right at the bottom of your crockpot. This creates a great base for all the tasty flavors to blend together.
2. Add the Sauces:
Pour both jars of marinara sauce and the chicken broth over the chicken. This will keep the chicken moist and flavorful while it cooks.
3. Season it Up:
Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and add salt and pepper to taste. These flavors will infuse the chicken and sauce, making every bite delicious!
4. Set it to Cook:
Cover the crockpot and let it cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be fully cooked and tender by this time.
5. Shred the Chicken:
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the crockpot. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.
6. Mix in the Goodness:
Return the shredded chicken back to the crockpot. Add the refrigerated tortellini, cream cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together until well combined and creamy.
7. Final Cooking:
Cover the crockpot again and cook on high for an additional 20-30 minutes, just until the tortellini is tender but not mushy.
8. Add the Spinach:
Stir in the chopped spinach and leave it uncovered for another 5 minutes. This will wilt the spinach perfectly and add a nice pop of color!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your warm chicken tortellini in bowls, garnished with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy this creamy, comforting dish that’s ideal for a busy weeknight!
Happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot Chicken Tortellini
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just allow for extra cooking time; it might take about 30 minutes longer on both low and high settings. Also, ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before shredding.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prep all the ingredients beforehand and store them in the fridge. Just add everything to the crockpot when you’re ready to cook. If you’re making it the night before, be aware that the chicken may need a little longer to cook through.
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese can be great alternatives. Just stir it in at the end to keep its creamy texture without overcooking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to maintain creaminess.
These tips should help make your cooking experience even better. Enjoy your meal!
