1. Can I use frozen tortellini for CrockPot Chicken Tortellini?

Yes, you can use frozen tortellini in this recipe. However, you may need to add an additional 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure the pasta is tender and cooked through.

2. Can I substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used as a substitute for chicken breasts. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if necessary and check the chicken's internal temperature for doneness.

3. Is there a way to make CrockPot Chicken Tortellini spicier?

Yes, if you prefer a spicy version, you can add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce when adding the seasonings. This will give the dish an extra kick without overwhelming the other flavors.

CrockPot Chicken Tortellini: The Ultimate Comfort Food

Name: CrockPot Chicken Tortellini
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 4 h 40 min
Total time: 4 h 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ lb chicken breast (about 4 medium breasts); 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion granules; 1 tsp Italian seasoning mix; ½ tsp paprika; ¼ tsp red chili flakes (optional); 1 ½ cups chicken broth; 1 lb cheese tortellini; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup heavy cream; 2 cups baby spinach; ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Description

CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish made with tender chicken, fresh tortellini, and a flavorful marinara sauce. It’s a simple, one-pot meal that requires minimal hands-on time and is perfect for busy nights or cozy family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

1 ½ lb chicken breast (about 4 medium breasts)
2 cups marinara sauce
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion granules
1 tsp Italian seasoning mix
½ tsp paprika
¼ tsp red chili flakes (optional)
1 ½ cups chicken broth
1 lb cheese tortellini
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup heavy cream
2 cups baby spinach
⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

Spray the slow cooker with olive oil or non-stick cooking spray. Arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of the slow cooker.
Pour in the marinara sauce, garlic powder, onion granules, Italian seasoning, paprika, and red chili flakes. Add the chicken broth, ensuring the chicken is completely submerged.
Cook on LOW for 4 hours or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove the chicken and shred it with two forks.
Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker. Add the tortellini, shredded mozzarella, and heavy cream. Stir to combine, making sure the tortellini are covered by the liquid.
Cover and cook on LOW for 30 minutes, or until the tortellini are tender.
Stir in the spinach and cook for an additional 10 minutes.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and adjust the seasoning to taste before serving.

Notes

Frozen tortellini can be used, but you may need to add 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
Boneless chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts, but cooking times may vary.
If you like a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream to maintain the creamy texture.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours 40 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 539 kcal
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 1286mg
Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Unsaturated Fat: N/A
Trans Fat: 0.01g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 44g
Cholesterol: 143mg