CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is the kind of dish that wraps around you like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Imagine tender chicken mingling with pillowy tortellini in a creamy sauce that smells like comfort itself simmering away in your kitchen. This recipe promises to be your new best friend when the clock ticks toward dinner time and your energy starts to wane.
As you breathe in the aroma of garlic and herbs wafting through your home, it’s hard not to anticipate the joy that awaits at the dinner table. I remember the first time I made this dish; my kids practically danced around the kitchen, their noses leading them straight to the pot. It’s an ideal meal for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays when you want something delicious without lifting a finger.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delightful CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is incredibly easy to prepare and requires minimal effort
- The flavor profile is rich and creamy, making it irresistible
- Its visual appeal comes from colorful veggies and pasta swimming in sauce
- Perfectly versatile for any occasion, serve it as a comforting weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering dish
I can still hear my youngest son exclaiming how this dish could easily replace pizza night – and trust me, that’s saying something!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work best; adjust according to your crowd size.
- Fresh Garlic: Always opt for fresh cloves; they bring so much more flavor than pre-minced.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: This creates a luscious base; feel free to use low-fat for a healthier option.
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to maintain control over saltiness while enhancing flavor.
- Frozen Cheese Tortellini: Choose your favorite brand; they cook perfectly in the slow cooker.
- Mixed Vegetables: Add any frozen mix you love; it boosts nutrition without extra prep time.
- Dried Italian Herbs: A blend of basil, oregano, and thyme brings aromatic warmth to the dish.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to taste preference.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese adds richness before serving; don’t skip this step!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Slow Cooker: Start by spraying the inside of your CrockPot with nonstick spray. This will prevent sticking when cooking and make cleanup easier later on.
Add Your Chicken: Place the boneless chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. Sprinkle generously with salt and pepper for flavor.
Incorporate Aromatics and Sauce: Mince fresh garlic and add it over the chicken along with cream of mushroom soup and chicken broth. Stir gently until everything is combined.
Toss in Vegetables & Herbs: Throw in your mixed vegetables along with dried Italian herbs. Mix everything together so each ingredient gets acquainted with its neighbors.
Add Tortellini Later : Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours. Add frozen cheese tortellini during the last 30 minutes of cooking to keep them tender yet firm.
Finishing Touches : Once it’s done cooking, stir everything together gently before serving. Top each bowl with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor!
Now sit back and let your CrockPot do all the hard work while you eagerly anticipate that first bite of creamy goodness!
With each spoonful of this delightful CrockPot Chicken Tortellini, you’ll find yourself enchanted by its flavors and ease of preparation. Perfectly balanced between hearty protein and cheesy goodness, it’s sure to become one of your go-to meals!
You Must Know
- The beauty of CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is its simplicity; you can toss everything in and let it work its magic
- The rich aromas will fill your kitchen, creating a comforting atmosphere
- Perfect for busy nights or cozy weekends with family
Perfecting the Cooking Process
For optimal results, layer your ingredients: start with the chicken, then add tortellini and sauce. This ensures even cooking and maximum flavor infusion.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap the tortellini with gnocchi or add fresh spinach for extra nutrition. Experimenting keeps it fun and tasty.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to maintain texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect CrockPot Chicken Tortellini, always cut your chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking
- Avoid overcooking tortellini; they are delicate and cook quickly
- Don’t skip adding cheese at the end for a creamy finish!
Cooking this dish reminds me of a dinner party where my friends couldn’t stop eating! Their laughter filled the room as they devoured every last bite, asking for seconds and thirds.
FAQ
Can I use frozen tortellini in CrockPot Chicken Tortellini?
Yes, frozen tortellini works just as well; just adjust cooking time slightly.
How long do I cook CrockPot Chicken Tortellini?
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until chicken is tender.
What sides pair well with this dish?
Serve with garlic bread or a fresh salad to balance flavors beautifully.
CrockPot Chicken Tortellini
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is an easy, creamy dish that combines tender chicken and cheese tortellini for a comforting family meal with minimal prep.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 16 oz frozen cheese tortellini
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
- Dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme)
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- 1. Spray the inside of the CrockPot with nonstick spray.
- 2. Place chicken breasts at the bottom and season with salt and pepper.
- 3. Add minced garlic, cream of mushroom soup, and chicken broth; stir to combine.
- 4. Toss in mixed vegetables and dried herbs; mix well.
- 5. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours.
- 6. Add frozen tortellini during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- 7. Stir gently before serving and top each bowl with Parmesan cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 80mg