If you’re on the lookout for a comforting, effortlessly delicious dinner that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, you have to try my CrockPot Chicken Tortellini with Spinach and Parmesan Recipe. This dish combines tender, slow-cooked chicken with cheesy tortellini, vibrant fresh spinach, and creamy Parmesan in the most perfect way. It’s a total crowd-pleaser that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and lets you come home to a meal that’s ready to be devoured. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend dinner, this recipe will quickly become one of your go-to favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, creamy texture, and vibrant color that make this dish so special.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The tender protein base that soaks up all the savory flavors as it slow cooks.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A classic herb blend that brings a warm, aromatic depth to the dish.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle garlicky punch without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances all the ingredients beautifully.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: A gentle spice kick for a little warmth.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic infuses the sauce with vibrant, savory notes.
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce: Provides a rich, tangy tomato base that complements the chicken perfectly.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Keeps everything moist and adds a subtle savory depth.
- 1 (16 oz) package cheese tortellini: Pillowy little pockets of cheesy goodness that elevate the texture and body of the dish.
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped: Adds a pop of green color and a gentle earthiness that keeps the dish fresh.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Introduces a luscious creaminess that makes every bite velvety smooth.
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese: The ultimate finishing touch that adds sharp, nutty flavor with every forkful.
- Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish): A bright, herbaceous note that brings the whole flavor profile together.
How to Make CrockPot Chicken Tortellini with Spinach and Parmesan Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Seasoning
Start by placing your boneless chicken breasts right into the CrockPot. Sprinkle the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper evenly over the top to infuse the chicken with fragrant, balanced flavors. Add the minced garlic for that fresh, aromatic hit.
Step 2: Add the Sauce and Liquids
Pour the marinara sauce and chicken broth over the chicken, creating a saucy base that will slowly meld together during cooking. This combination will tenderize the meat and form a deliciously flavorful foundation.
Step 3: Slow Cook the Chicken
Cover your CrockPot and set it to low. Let it cook for 4 to 5 hours, allowing the chicken to become wonderfully tender and infused with all those lovely seasonings and sauces. The anticipation while it cooks is half the fun.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is perfectly cooked, remove it from the CrockPot and shred it with two forks. Then, return the shredded chicken back into the CrockPot, mixing it into the rich sauce.
Step 5: Add Tortellini and Spinach
Top the shredded chicken with cheese tortellini and chopped fresh spinach. These ingredients will add soft texture and a fresh green pop, complementing the creamy, cheesy base beautifully.
Step 6: Stir in Cream and Parmesan
Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the top. Gently stir everything together to combine creamy and cheesy goodness evenly throughout the dish.
Step 7: Final Cook
Cover the CrockPot again and cook on high for another 30 to 45 minutes, or until the tortellini is tender and perfectly infused with all the rich flavors. Your creamy, comforting meal is almost ready to serve!
How to Serve CrockPot Chicken Tortellini with Spinach and Parmesan Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle fresh chopped basil over each serving to add a fragrant, herbaceous layer that brightens every bite. A little extra Parmesan on top is always welcomed for more cheesy goodness.
Side Dishes
This dish truly shines on its own, but if you want to add some contrast, a crisp green salad or garlic bread make excellent companions. Roasted vegetables also add great color and texture to round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the CrockPot Chicken Tortellini with Spinach and Parmesan Recipe in rustic bowls, garnished with basil and freshly cracked black pepper. For gatherings, try layering it in a pretty casserole dish to showcase the colorful ingredients and let guests help themselves.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate. The flavors will develop even more overnight, making for an even tastier next-day meal.
Freezing
This dish freezes well! Just let it cool completely before storing in freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat gently either in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to warm the creamy sauce evenly. Add a splash of broth or cream if it feels too thick.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it will increase the cooking time by about an hour or so. Just make sure the chicken is fully cooked and tender before shredding.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free creamer, and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative to keep the creamy texture without the dairy.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
For a kick, add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce while cooking. Fresh jalapeños or spicy Italian sausage can also be incorporated for extra heat.
Can I prepare this on the stovetop instead of a CrockPot?
You can, but the slow cooker really helps the flavors meld beautifully and keeps the chicken moist. If stovetop, simmer gently for about 45 minutes to an hour until the chicken is tender.
What type of cheese tortellini works best?
Cheese-filled tortellini is the classic choice, but you can experiment with spinach or mushroom-filled tortellini to vary the flavor profile while keeping it delicious.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly satisfying about coming home to a warm meal that practically cooks itself, packed with rich flavors and comforting textures. The CrockPot Chicken Tortellini with Spinach and Parmesan Recipe brings together simple, wholesome ingredients in a way that feels both indulgent and nourishing. Give this recipe a try, and it’ll quickly become a beloved favorite that you reach for time and time again.
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CrockPot Chicken Tortellini with Spinach and Parmesan Recipe
- Total Time: 5 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This hearty CrockPot Chicken Tortellini recipe combines tender, slow-cooked chicken with creamy marinara sauce, cheese tortellini, and fresh spinach for a comforting and flavorful one-pot meal. Perfect for busy days, this recipe requires minimal prep and delivers rich, cheesy goodness with a fresh basil garnish.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce and Broth
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth
Pasta and Vegetables
- 1 (16 oz) package cheese tortellini
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
Dairy and Garnish
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the CrockPot and evenly sprinkle Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper over them. Add the minced garlic for extra flavor.
- Add Sauce and Broth: Pour the jar of marinara sauce and chicken broth over the seasoned chicken to create a flavorful cooking liquid.
- Cook on Low: Cover the CrockPot and cook on the low setting for 4 to 5 hours, allowing the chicken to become tender and fully cooked through.
- Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the CrockPot and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the CrockPot to soak up the sauce.
- Add Tortellini and Spinach: Place the cheese tortellini and chopped fresh spinach on top of the shredded chicken in the CrockPot.
- Incorporate Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and shredded Parmesan cheese thoroughly, combining all ingredients.
- Cook on High: Cover again and cook on the high setting for an additional 30 to 45 minutes, until the tortellini is tender and the sauce has thickened.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh basil over the dish to add a fresh, aromatic finish.
Notes
- Use fresh spinach for best texture; frozen spinach can be substituted but may affect the dish’s consistency.
- For a lower-fat version, swap heavy cream for half-and-half or use a light cream alternative.
- Adding tortellini towards the end ensures it doesn’t overcook and become mushy.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove the lid during the last 10 minutes to let excess liquid evaporate.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 hours 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
