CrockPot Chicken Tortellini with Spinach and Parmesan Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day, this CrockPot Chicken Tortellini with Spinach and Parmesan Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines tender, slow-cooked chicken with cheesy tortellini, fresh spinach, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce, all effortlessly cooked in your CrockPot. This dish has the perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it an absolute crowd-pleaser for family dinners or cozy get-togethers. Plus, it’s so simple to prepare, yet yields a luscious, homemade taste that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe plays an important role, whether it’s to build layers of flavor, add creaminess, or introduce vibrant color and freshness. These basics come together to make a dish that’s both satisfying and inviting without any complicated steps.

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein for tender, juicy bites after slow cooking.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Adds a fragrant herbal blend that complements the tomato and cheese perfectly.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Gives a subtle, deep garlicky flavor that supports the fresh garlic.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances every other flavor in the dish.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just a touch of warmth and depth.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Freshness and a bit of pungent brightness that cuts through the richness.
• 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce: The beloved tomato base that brings acidity, sweetness, and herby notes.
• 1 cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and savory undertones to keep everything juicy.
• 1 (16 oz) package cheese tortellini: Soft, cheesy pasta pockets that soak up all the delicious sauce.
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped: A burst of color and nutrition, wilted just right into the creamy mix.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Brings richness and smoothness that ties everything together luxuriously.
• 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese: Adds salty, nutty complexity and helps thicken the sauce.
• Fresh basil, chopped, for garnish: A fragrant finishing touch that freshens each bite.

How to Make CrockPot Chicken Tortellini with Spinach and Parmesan Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Start by placing your chicken breasts right into the CrockPot. This easy setup is the foundation for building those tender, juicy flavors as the chicken slowly cooks all day.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Sprinkle the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper over the chicken. These simple spices bring out a wonderful depth of flavor, making sure the meat is anything but bland.

Step 3: Add Aromatics and Liquids

Next, toss in the minced garlic, marinara sauce, and chicken broth. This combination creates a rich, saucy base that will infuse the chicken with both acidity and comforting warmth.

Step 4: Slow Cook the Chicken

Cover the CrockPot and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours. During this time, the chicken will become incredibly tender and soak up all the flavors from the sauce and spices—a slow-cooking magic moment!

Step 5: Shred the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it carefully and shred it using two forks. This shredding lets the meat mix easily with the sauce and tortellini later on.

Step 6: Add Tortellini and Spinach

Return the shredded chicken to the CrockPot, then layer the cheese tortellini and chopped fresh spinach on top. The spinach will wilt just right to add freshness and a pop of green.

Step 7: Stir in Cream and Parmesan

Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle the shredded Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together gently—you’ll start to see the sauce turn luxuriously creamy and speckled with cheesy goodness.

Step 8: Final Cook for Tender Tortellini

Cover the CrockPot again and cook on high for an additional 30 to 45 minutes. This step softens the tortellini to a perfect tender bite and blends all those flavors beautifully.

Step 9: Add Fresh Basil Garnish

Just before serving, sprinkle the chopped fresh basil on top. The aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water, and that fresh herbal punch perfectly complements the rich, creamy sauce.

How to Serve CrockPot Chicken Tortellini with Spinach and Parmesan Recipe

Garnishes

This dish shines brilliantly with just a scattering of fresh basil, but you can also add a light dusting of extra Parmesan or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil for that extra pop. These simple garnishes add layers of aroma and flavor that make every bite feel special.

Side Dishes

Because this recipe is wonderfully hearty on its own, pairing it with light sides enhances the overall meal. Think a crisp, simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette or garlic roasted vegetables. These sides balance the creamy CrockPot Chicken Tortellini with Spinach and Parmesan Recipe perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a beautiful presentation at your next dinner, serve the CrockPot Chicken Tortellini in rustic bowls with extra Parmesan and basil on top. Or try individual ramekins for a charming, personalized touch. No matter the presentation, this dish always feels welcoming and homey.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making your next meal just as delicious!

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, this dish freezes well in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing to maintain texture and flavor.

Reheating

To reheat, warm leftovers gently in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up and bring that creamy consistency back to life.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute frozen spinach, but be sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding it. Fresh spinach gives a slightly better texture and color, though.

Is it necessary to shred the chicken before adding the tortellini?

Shredding the chicken helps it mix thoroughly with the sauce and tortellini, creating a balanced texture throughout the dish. You could leave chicken whole if desired, but shredding is recommended for the best experience.

What if I don’t have heavy cream on hand?

You can substitute half-and-half or even whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy. For a dairy-free version, try coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative, keeping in mind this will change the flavor slightly.

Can I use different types of pasta instead of tortellini?

Cheese tortellini is ideal for this recipe because it melds perfectly with the creamy sauce and chicken. However, you could try other filled pastas or small shapes like gnocchi or mini ravioli for a fun twist.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Absolutely! The CrockPot Chicken Tortellini with Spinach and Parmesan Recipe is excellent for meal prepping since it stores well and reheats nicely. Just portion it out and enjoy it for lunches or quick dinners all week long.

Final Thoughts

This CrockPot Chicken Tortellini with Spinach and Parmesan Recipe is truly a lifesaver for anyone craving a comforting, homemade meal without hours of fuss. It brings together simple ingredients that work harmoniously to create something rich, creamy, and utterly delicious. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a favorite in your home as it is in mine.

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