CrockPot Chicken Tortellini Recipe

If you’ve been hunting for a cozy, no-fuss dinner that feels like a warm hug, then the CrockPot Chicken Tortellini Recipe is exactly what you need in your life. This dish brings together tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and a luscious marinara sauce that slow cooks into a creamy masterpiece. Every bite bursts with comforting flavors and the kind of hearty goodness that makes you want to cozy up and savor every mouthful. Easy to prepare and perfect for feeding a crowd (or your hungry family), this recipe proves that amazing homemade meals don’t have to mean hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, familiar ingredients that come together to create a dish bursting with flavor and comfort. Each component plays a vital role — from the rich marinara that forms a tangy base, to the creamy cheeses that melt into every bite, and the fresh spinach that adds a pop of color and a healthy touch.

• Olive oil spray: Helps to prevent sticking while adding a subtle hint of fruity richness.
• 1 ½ lbs chicken breast: The star protein, tender and perfect for shredding.
• 2 cups marinara sauce: A flavorful tomato base packed with herbs to give the dish depth.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds warm, savory notes without overpowering the other flavors.
• 1 teaspoon onion granules: Brings gentle sweetness and aromatic balance.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning mix: A blend of herbs like basil and oregano that enhance the Italian vibe.
• ½ teaspoon paprika: Adds a subtle smoky warmth and rich color.
• ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes: A touch of heat to keep things lively and interesting.
• 1 ½ cups chicken broth: Keeps the chicken moist and infuses extra savory flavor as it cooks.
• 1 lb cheese tortellini: Pillowy pasta pockets filled with creamy cheese — pure comfort food magic.
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: Melts to gooey perfection, giving each bite a cheesy embrace.
• ½ cup heavy cream: Creams up the sauce for that heavenly, luscious texture.
• 2 cups baby spinach: Adds freshness and vibrant green color for a nutrient boost.
• ⅓ cup Parmesan cheese, grated: Gives a nutty, salty finish that brightens the flavors beautifully.

How to Make CrockPot Chicken Tortellini Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Slow Cooker and Chicken

Start by giving your slow cooker a quick spritz with olive oil spray — this keeps everything from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Lay the chicken breasts in a single layer right at the bottom; this ensures they cook evenly and soak up all the lovely flavors we’re about to add.

Step 2: Add Sauce and Seasonings

Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken, then sprinkle on garlic powder, onion granules, Italian seasoning, paprika, and red chili flakes. These spices layer in savory, smoky, and slightly spicy notes that marry perfectly with the tomato base, setting up a full-flavored foundation for your CrockPot Chicken Tortellini Recipe.

Step 3: Slow Cook to Tender Perfection

Cover your slow cooker and set it on LOW for about 4 hours. During this time, the chicken will become tender enough to shred effortlessly, soaking in that rich, seasoned sauce as it cooks.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

Once the time is up, use two forks to shred the chicken right in the slow cooker. This is such a satisfying step because you can already smell how tender and delicious everything has become.

Step 5: Add Pasta and Cheeses

Return the shredded chicken back to the sauce and stir it all together. Then toss in your cheese tortellini, shredded mozzarella, and heavy cream. Mix everything well so that the creamy sauce starts coating each piece of pasta and chicken, bringing that signature indulgent texture our CrockPot Chicken Tortellini Recipe is known for.

Step 6: Finish Cooking Tortellini

Cook on LOW for an additional 30 minutes. This lets the tortellini cook through right in the rich sauce, soaking up flavors and getting delightfully tender without losing shape.

Step 7: Add Spinach and Parmesan

Just before you serve, stir in the baby spinach and let it cook for about 10 more minutes until it wilts tenderly. Then sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese, giving the dish one last stir. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed — this finishing touch balances and brightens every component beautifully.

How to Serve CrockPot Chicken Tortellini Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like basil or parsley are wonderful to sprinkle on top for a burst of color and freshness. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can also add a bit of flair and extra flavor if you like.

Side Dishes

This meal shines on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or some garlic bread can turn it into a feast. Roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli provide great texture contrast and additional nutrients.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special touch, serve this dish in individual oven-safe bowls with a sprinkle of mozzarella on top, broiling just until it melts and bubbles. Alternatively, spoon it over a bed of sautéed kale or roasted cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist without sacrificing any flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Put any leftovers in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a perfect lunch or quick dinner the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze leftover CrockPot Chicken Tortellini Recipe in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before sealing to preserve texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure everything warms evenly. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring back that creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe?

Yes, you can start with frozen chicken breasts, but you’ll need to add an extra hour to the cooking time to ensure the chicken cooks through completely in your CrockPot Chicken Tortellini Recipe.

Is it possible to use a different kind of cheese tortellini?

Absolutely! Cheese tortellini is classic in this recipe, but you can also use spinach, mushroom, or meat-filled tortellini if you want to switch things up.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Sure! Swap out the mozzarella and Parmesan for dairy-free cheeses and replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or a creamy dairy-free alternative to keep it just as delicious.

How spicy is this dish with the red chili flakes?

The amount of red chili flakes used offers just a gentle warmth, not overwhelming heat. You can always adjust the quantity or omit it if you prefer a milder meal.

Can I double the recipe for a larger group?

Yes, doubling the CrockPot Chicken Tortellini Recipe works well; just make sure your slow cooker is large enough to handle the extra volume for even cooking.

Final Thoughts

This CrockPot Chicken Tortellini Recipe has become a total favorite of mine for easy weeknight dinners or anytime I want something comforting without the fuss. The creamy, cheesy sauce paired with tender chicken and pasta is pure magic that warms both the stomach and the soul. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your go-to dish too!

Print