why make this recipe
CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is a fantastic choice for busy weeknights. It’s a creamy, comforting dish that comes together easily in your slow cooker. With minimal prep time, just throw everything in and let it cook. Plus, it’s packed with flavor and can be made with ingredients you might already have at home. This recipe is perfect for feeding a family or for meal prep, making it a great addition to your recipe collection.
how to make CrockPot Chicken Tortellini
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken breast
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 package frozen cheese tortellini
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup spinach (optional)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Place the chicken breast in the CrockPot.
- Pour the chicken broth over the chicken.
- Add garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Once the chicken is cooked, shred it using two forks.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, frozen tortellini, and heavy cream.
- Add spinach if desired.
- Cook on high for an additional 30 minutes or until the tortellini is heated through.
- Serve hot.
how to serve CrockPot Chicken Tortellini
This dish is great served in bowls, garnished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs like parsley or basil. You can also pair it with a slice of garlic bread or a simple side salad to complete your meal.
how to store CrockPot Chicken Tortellini
Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you need to store it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. When reheating, you may want to add a little extra broth or cream to maintain the creamy texture.
tips to make CrockPot Chicken Tortellini
- For a richer flavor, consider marinating the chicken in your favorite spices or seasoning overnight.
- If you want a thicker sauce, you can use less chicken broth or add a little cornstarch mixed with water toward the end of cooking.
- To save even more time, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken breast.
variation
You can customize this recipe by adding vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots. You can also substitute the tortellini with other types of pasta or use a different protein like sausage or turkey.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tortellini instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh tortellini, but you might need to adjust the cooking time. Fresh tortellini typically cooks faster than frozen.
Is there a way to make it healthier?
You can lighten the dish up by using low-fat cream or almond milk, and you can add more vegetables to boost the nutritional value.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. Just combine and cook in the CrockPot when you’re ready to eat.