Introduction
Welcome to a cozy corner of culinary delights where we embrace the ease and comfort of a slow cooker! Today, I’m bringing you a heartwarming recipe for Crockpot Chicken Tortellini. This dish combines tender, shredded chicken with creamy tortellini, vibrant spinach, and a rich broth, creating a meal that’s not only convenient but also incredibly satisfying. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your home.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (16-ounce) package cheese tortellini
- 2 cups frozen spinach
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1 cup diced onion
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Grated parmesan cheese for serving
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours
Total Time: 6-8 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Start by placing the boneless chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker, ensuring they are evenly spread out.
- Pour the chicken broth over the chicken, letting it envelop the meat in warm, savory goodness.
- Add the diced tomatoes, onions, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning to the pot. Season with salt and pepper for that perfect flavor balance.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is beautifully cooked through and tender.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the cooker. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and return it to the pot.
- Stir in the frozen spinach and the cheese tortellini, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Cover again and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes, or until the tortellini is perfectly al dente.
- Finally, stir in the heavy cream, mixing it all together to create a rich and creamy sauce.
- Serve hot, and don’t forget to garnish each bowl with a generous sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese for that extra touch of flavor!
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, for an extra burst of color and nutrition.
- This dish stores well; you can enjoy the leftovers the next day for an easy lunch!
- If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative.
Cooking Techniques
Using a slow cooker not only simplifies the cooking process but also allows the flavors to develop and deepen over time, resulting in a dish that’s tender and full of flavor. Shredding the chicken enhances the texture, making it easily mix with the tortellini and spinach, creating that comforting, homestyle feel.
FAQ
Can I use fresh tortellini instead of frozen?
Absolutely! If you have fresh tortellini, just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as fresh usually cooks quicker.
What can I serve with this dish?
This delicious tortellini can stand on its own, but a light salad or crusty bread would be perfect for a complete meal.
Conclusion
This Crockpot Chicken Tortellini recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a rich and creamy dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a little prep work, you can sit back and let the slow cooker do its magic. Each bite promises a comforting experience that’s sure to warm your soul. Give it a try, and you might just find yourself revisiting this dish time and time again!