why make this recipe
This dish is simple, creamy, and full of flavor. You toss chicken, sauce, and spices in the slow cooker and finish with cheese and tortellini. It saves time and gives you a warm, comforting meal. For more simple crockpot chicken ideas try best easy crockpot chicken recipes.
introduction
CrockPot Chicken Tortellini needs little hands-on time. It cooks slowly so the chicken stays tender. The cheese and cream make the sauce rich and smooth. This is a good weeknight meal when you want something easy and filling.
how to make CrockPot Chicken Tortellini
Ingredients :
- Olive oil spray
- 1 ½ lbs chicken breast (about 4 medium breasts)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion granules
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning mix
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 lb cheese tortellini
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 cups baby spinach
- â…“ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Directions :
- Spray the slow cooker with olive oil.
- Arrange chicken breasts in a single layer.
- Pour marinara sauce and spices over the chicken.
- Cover and set the slow cooker to LOW for about 4 hours.
- Shred cooked chicken with forks.
- Return shredded chicken to the cooker and mix with sauce.
- Add tortellini, mozzarella, and heavy cream, stirring well.
- Cook on LOW for another 30 minutes.
- Stir in spinach and cook for 10 more minutes.
- Add Parmesan cheese, taste, and adjust seasoning.
If you like a creamier, herb-forward sauce, see this idea for a similar dish creamy tuscan chicken pasta crockpot.
how to serve CrockPot Chicken Tortellini
Serve hot in shallow bowls. Add extra Parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil. You can pair it with garlic bread or a simple green salad. It works well as a full meal on its own.
how to store CrockPot Chicken Tortellini
Cool the dish to room temperature for up to two hours. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. You can also freeze for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
tips to make CrockPot Chicken Tortellini
- Spray the slow cooker well to stop sticking.
- Shred the chicken well so it mixes evenly with the sauce.
- Add the tortellini near the end so it does not get mushy.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth when reheating.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
For a soup-style option, you can try a crockpot soup recipe like this cozy crockpot chicken parmesan soup.
variation (if any)
- Veggie version: Use plant-based tortellini and add mushrooms and bell peppers.
- Spicier: Add more red chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne.
- Cheesy bake: After cooking, transfer to a baking dish, top with extra mozzarella, and broil until golden.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
A: Yes, but add more cooking time. Make sure the chicken reaches safe temperature.
Q: Can I use refrigerated tortellini instead of frozen?
A: Yes. Watch the cooking time and add the tortellini later so it does not overcook.
Q: Can I skip the heavy cream?
A: You can. The sauce will be less rich. Try half-and-half or extra cheese instead.
Q: How do I keep the spinach from getting soggy?
A: Stir in spinach at the end and cook only 5–10 minutes until it just wilts.
Q: Is this dish freezer friendly?
A: Yes. Freeze in a good container and thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Conclusion
If you want to see the original recipe and get another view on this dish, you can read it at CrockPot Chicken Tortellini – Mighty Spatula.

CrockPot Chicken Tortellini
Ingredients
Method
- Spray the slow cooker with olive oil.
- Arrange chicken breasts in a single layer.
- Pour marinara sauce and spices over the chicken.
- Cover and set the slow cooker to LOW for about 4 hours.
- Shred cooked chicken with forks.
- Return shredded chicken to the cooker and mix with sauce.
- Add tortellini, mozzarella, and heavy cream, stirring well.
- Cook on LOW for another 30 minutes.
- Stir in spinach and cook for 10 more minutes.
- Add Parmesan cheese, taste, and adjust seasoning.