Slow Cooker Chicken Tortellini
235
18
1.30k
Slow cooker meals are a lifesaver for busy weeknights, and nothing hits the spot quite like a creamy chicken tortellini dish. I stumbled upon this recipe during a hectic week when I was juggling work and family, and let me tell you—it’s become a household favorite! The combination of tender chicken, rich cream, and cheesy tortellini makes for a comforting dish that the whole family will adore.
Why you’ll love this dish
This Slow Cooker Chicken Tortellini isn’t just delicious; it’s also incredibly convenient. With just a few ingredients, you can create a meal that feels indulgent without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want something filling yet simple. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, which is always a bonus. Kids will love the cheesy tortellini, making this dish a winner for family nights or casual gatherings.
“I made this for a family dinner, and everyone went back for seconds! It’s so creamy and full of flavor—definitely a new favorite!” – Sarah, mom of three.
The cooking process explained
To whip up this incredible dish, you’ll be amazed at how straightforward it is. You start by simply adding your ingredients to the slow cooker and letting it do the work. With minimal prep, you can set it and forget it, allowing you to focus on other tasks or enjoy some downtime. The culmination of flavors as everything melds together makes this dish feel like a warm hug on a plate.
What you’ll need
Gather these items to create your Slow Cooker Chicken Tortellini masterpiece:
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts or tenderloins
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 19 ounces frozen cheese tortellini
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan
Optional: You can substitute the chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken for an even quicker preparation. If you want to lighten it up, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Step-by-step instructions
Now, let’s get to the fun part:
- In your slow cooker, add the chicken, heavy cream, butter, and chicken broth.
- Stir in the minced garlic and black pepper.
- Cover and cook on high for about 2 to 4 hours or on low for 4 to 6 hours.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken and place it in a separate bowl, shredding or chunking it to your desired size.
- Add the chicken back into the slow cooker and incorporate the frozen cheese tortellini.
- Cook the tortellini for 18 to 20 minutes, or until tender.
- Finally, stir in the shredded Parmesan cheese until everything is well combined.
- Serve hot, garnished with parsley and additional shaved Parmesan if desired.
Best ways to enjoy it
This dish not only looks appealing but also tastes divine. When serving, consider spooning the chicken tortellini into bowls, allowing everyone to join in the experience. Pair it with a crisp green salad or some warm garlic bread to soak up that luxurious sauce. A glass of white wine complements the creamy flavors beautifully, making this dish worthy of a celebration!
Keeping leftovers fresh
Storing leftovers correctly ensures you can enjoy this delectable dish even days later. Allow any remaining chicken tortellini to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
Freezing Tip: You can freeze this dish! Just remember that dairy-based sauces may change in texture once frozen. If you plan to freeze it, consider leaving out the Parmesan until you’re reheating.
Helpful cooking tips
Here are some little secrets to elevate your Slow Cooker Chicken Tortellini:
- Sauté the garlic before adding it to the slow cooker for an extra layer of flavor.
- Adjust the consistency by adding more chicken broth if it seems too thick after cooking.
- For a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce when mixing in the tortellini.
Creative twists
The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility! Here are some variations you could try:
- Swap in different proteins like turkey or Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
- Use spinach or kale for added nutrition—just throw it in during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Try substituting half of the tortellini with a vegetable option, like zucchini noodles, for a lighter twist.
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare?
Preparation is quick, involving minimal chopping and just 15 minutes of active time before cooking!
Can I use fresh tortellini?
Yes! If using fresh tortellini, reduce the cooking time to around 5-10 minutes after adding it to the slow cooker.
How do I store the leftovers?
Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for 3-4 days, or freeze for longer storage. Just be aware that freezing may slightly alter the creaminess of the dish.
Now you’re ready to bring this Slow Cooker Chicken Tortellini into your home kitchen. Enjoy the deliciousness and simplicity of this meal—it just might become a staple in your family’s cooking repertoire!
Slow Cooker Chicken Tortellini
Ingredients
Method
- In your slow cooker, add the chicken, heavy cream, butter, and chicken broth.
- Stir in the minced garlic and black pepper.
- Cover and cook on high for about 2 to 4 hours or on low for 4 to 6 hours.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken and place it in a separate bowl, shredding or chunking it to your desired size.
- Add the chicken back into the slow cooker and incorporate the frozen cheese tortellini.
- Cook the tortellini for 18 to 20 minutes, or until tender.
- Finally, stir in the shredded Parmesan cheese until everything is well combined.
- Serve hot, garnished with parsley and additional shaved Parmesan if desired.
