There’s something magical about walking into a home filled with a comforting aroma. For me, that memory always takes me back to my grandmother’s kitchen on a chilly autumn evening. She was a master of creating cozy meals with minimal fuss. This CrockPot Chicken Tortellini Recipe is my modern take on that feeling – a warm hug in a bowl, unbelievably easy to make, and brimming with cheesy, savory goodness. I’ve streamlined her techniques using the wonders of the slow cooker, and I think you’re going to love it!
Why You’ll Love This CrockPot Chicken Tortellini
Let’s be honest, who has hours to spend slaving over a hot stove? This recipe delivers big flavor without the big effort. Here’s why it’s a winner:
- Ultimate Convenience: It’s a CrockPot recipe! Just toss everything in, press a button, and come home to a delicious dinner.
- Family-Friendly: Creamy, cheesy, and featuring tender chicken, this dish is a surefire hit with kids and adults alike.
- Easy Cleanup: Minimal dishes are involved, a huge bonus on busy weeknights.
- Versatile Flavor: We’ll talk about variations later, but the base recipe is fantastic as is!
- Comfort Food at its Finest: This is pure, unadulterated comfort food. The kind that warms you from the inside out.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s gather everything we need for this incredibly easy meal. Don’t worry, it’s all pretty standard pantry fare!
- 1.5 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Cut into 1-inch cubes.
- 1 (10 oz) Package Frozen Cheese Tortellini: Any shape will work!
- 1 (24.5 oz) Jar Marinara Sauce: Choose your favorite brand. A richer, thicker sauce is best.
- 1 (15 oz) Can Diced Tomatoes, undrained: This adds body and freshness.
- 1 cup Chicken Broth: Low sodium is preferred, so you can control the saltiness.
- 1/2 cup Heavy Cream: This is what creates that lovely creamy texture.
- 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese: Plus more for serving!
- 1 tsp Italian Seasoning: Adds that classic Italian flavor.
- 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder: Because everything’s better with garlic!
- 1/4 tsp Onion Powder: Complements the garlic beautifully.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste. Be mindful of the salt if your broth is already salted.
- Optional Garnish: Fresh basil, chopped parsley.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions: Let’s Get Cooking!
This is where the magic happens. Seriously, it’s so easy!
- Prep the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes, ensuring they are relatively uniform in size for even cooking.
- Layer in the CrockPot: Pour the marinara sauce and diced tomatoes (with their juice) into the bottom of your slow cooker.
- Add the Chicken and Seasonings: Sprinkle the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder over the sauce. Add the cubed chicken. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
- Add Broth: Pour the chicken broth over the chicken and sauce mixture. This prevents the chicken from drying out.
- Cook on Low: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 5-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours. The chicken should be cooked through and easily shreddable.
- Add the Tortellini: About 30 minutes before serving, gently stir in the frozen cheese tortellini.
- Stir in Cream and Parmesan: Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until combined and heated through.
- Taste and Adjust: Give it a taste and adjust seasonings as needed. More salt, pepper, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat? Go for it!
- Serve and Enjoy!: Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh basil or parsley (if using). Extra Parmesan cheese is always a good idea!
Tips, Variations & Serving Suggestions
Want to take this recipe to the next level? Let’s explore some options!
Tips for Success:
- Don’t Overcook the Tortellini: Adding the tortellini later prevents them from becoming mushy.
- Use a Quality Marinara Sauce: The sauce is the foundation of the flavor, so choose a brand you enjoy.
- Shred the Chicken (Optional): If you prefer, shred the chicken with two forks after it’s cooked. This creates a more uniform texture.
- Slow Cooker Size: This recipe works well in a 6-quart slow cooker. If you’re using a smaller one, you may need to reduce the recipe slightly.
Flavor Variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Vegetable Boost: Add 1 cup of chopped bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms along with the chicken.
- Spinach Addition: Stir in a 5-ounce package of thawed and squeezed-dry spinach during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
- Italian Sausage: Substitute half the chicken with cooked and crumbled Italian sausage for a richer, meatier flavor.
- Cream Cheese: For an even more decadent creamy sauce, stir in 4 ounces of softened cream cheese alongside the heavy cream.
Serving Suggestions:
- Garlic Bread: Serve with a side of crusty garlic bread for dipping.
- Side Salad: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus make a healthy and colorful addition.
- Italian Herbs: Freshly chopped parsley or oregano sprinkled on top really elevates the flavour.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
Please note that this is an estimate and can vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 450-500
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This dish is a source of protein and carbohydrates, and provides a good dose of calcium from the cheese.
So, there you have it! A simple, delicious, and incredibly satisfying CrockPot Chicken Tortellini Recipe. It’s a weeknight lifesaver and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Don’t be intimidated by the list of ingredients – it all comes together beautifully in the slow cooker. Give it a try and let me know what you think. Happy cooking!
