Sinking into a bowl of warm, cheesy CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket on a chilly evening. The aroma wafts through the air, enticing everyone in the house with its promise of comfort and flavor that dances on your taste buds. This dish is not just food; it’s a hug in a bowl, perfect for those days when you need a little extra love.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>How to Make CrockPot Chicken Tortellini</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What type of tortellini works best for this recipe?
- Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
- How can I make this dish vegetarian-friendly?
- 📖 Recipe Card
I remember the first time I made this delightful dish. My family was skeptical at first—“Tortellini in the slow cooker? Really?” But one taste and they were hooked! It quickly became our go-to comfort meal. Whether it’s a rainy day or a busy weeknight, this recipe always shines through with its rich flavors and creamy texture.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delicious CrockPot Chicken Tortellini makes dinner prep simple, letting you enjoy more time with loved ones
- Its creamy texture and savory flavors create an irresistible experience
- Perfect for weeknight meals or cozy gatherings, it’s versatile enough to please any crowd
- Plus, it practically cooks itself while you go about your day!
I recall my kids’ eyes lighting up after their first spoonful of this creamy goodness—a moment I cherish!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work well; adjust according to your family size.
Fresh Garlic: Use firm cloves to ensure robust flavor in the sauce.
Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control salt levels while enhancing flavor.
Cream Cheese: Full-fat cream cheese gives the dish a rich, velvety texture.
Frozen Cheese Tortellini: Choose high-quality tortellini for the best flavor and texture.
Spinach or Kale: Fresh greens add nutrition and vibrant color; feel free to substitute as desired.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs elevates the dish’s flavor profile dramatically.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan sprinkled on top brings everything together beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make CrockPot Chicken Tortellini
Start by preparing your ingredients: Gather all your ingredients on the counter and set aside those pesky wrappers from the cream cheese.
Add Chicken & Broth: Place your boneless chicken breasts at the bottom of the CrockPot. Pour in enough chicken broth to cover them completely—this keeps everything moist and flavorful.
Add Seasonings & Garlic: Sprinkle Italian seasoning over the chicken along with minced garlic. The smell will get your neighbors knocking at your door!
Add Cream Cheese & Spinach: Cut cream cheese into cubes and place them atop the chicken mixture. Toss in fresh spinach or kale for added nutrients and color; this step adds visual appeal too.
Cook Low & Slow: Cover your CrockPot and cook on low for about 6 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken shreds easily with two forks.
Add Tortellini & Finish Cooking: Stir in frozen tortellini during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Let them simmer until tender, soaking up all those delicious flavors.
Serve & Garnish with Parmesan: Dish out generous servings into bowls and sprinkle grated Parmesan on top right before serving—because who doesn’t love extra cheese?
This delectable CrockPot Chicken Tortellini has become my secret weapon for family dinners! It’s so easy yet impressively tasty that it makes me look like a culinary genius without breaking a sweat. Enjoy every comforting bite!
You Must Know
- This delightful CrockPot Chicken Tortellini recipe is a cozy meal that warms both the stomach and the soul
- The rich flavors blend beautifully, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends
- Plus, it’s as easy as tossing everything into the pot and letting magic happen!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing garlic and onions for flavor, then add chicken, broth, and tortellini together. Let it simmer until everything’s tender and delicious.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or different types of cheese to customize this dish to your taste. Adding fresh herbs can elevate the flavors even more.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop for best results, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure a creamy consistency, avoid overcooking tortellini; they should be tender but firm
- Use homemade chicken broth for richer flavor
- Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded varieties
Sharing this recipe reminds me of a rainy day when I first made it, and my family couldn’t stop raving about how comforting it was after a long week.
FAQ
What type of tortellini works best for this recipe?
Use fresh or frozen tortellini; both will yield great results in your CrockPot.
Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Turkey or even sausage can be delicious alternatives in this dish.
How can I make this dish vegetarian-friendly?
Swap chicken for beans or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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CrockPot Chicken Tortellini
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. This creamy, cheesy dish combines tender chicken, flavorful broth, and fresh greens with delightful cheese tortellini. Allow the slow cooker to work its magic while you enjoy time with family or unwind after a long day. Each spoonful is a warm embrace that promises satisfaction and joy.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 8 oz cream cheese (1 package)
- 20 oz frozen cheese tortellini
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Add chicken breasts to the bottom of the CrockPot and cover with chicken broth.
- Sprinkle minced garlic and Italian seasoning over the chicken.
- Cut cream cheese into cubes and place on top of the mixture. Add spinach or kale.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours until chicken shreds easily.
- Stir in frozen tortellini during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups (360g)
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 980mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
