Introduction
There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of Chicken Tortellini, especially when it comes from your trusty crockpot. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also delivers a delightful medley of flavors that will warm your soul. Imagine tender chicken simmering with garlic, fresh spinach, and cheesy tortellini — it’s a dish that embodies simplicity and love, perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Let’s dive into how you can create this deliciousness in your own home.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 package (9 oz) refrigerated tortellini
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 7 hours
Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 4-6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. This will form the flavorful base of your dish.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic on top of the chicken, allowing their aromas to envelop the chicken as it cooks.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the can of undrained diced tomatoes. Then, sprinkle the Italian seasoning, along with a pinch of salt and pepper, over the mix.
- Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is perfectly cooked and tender.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the crockpot and use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Return the succulent shredded chicken back to the pot.
- Now, stir in the heavy cream and the tortellini, then cover and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes, or until the tortellini is tender and cooked through.
- Just before serving, fold in the fresh spinach, allowing it to wilt gently into the creamy mixture.
- Serve this heartwarming dish in bowls, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
Notes or Tips
For a lighter version, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream. You can also add a splash of lemon juice just before serving to brighten the flavors even more. Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or spices to make this dish your own!
Cooking Techniques
This crockpot recipe relies on the slow cooking method, which helps develop deep flavors while keeping the chicken moist and tender. Shredding the chicken and mixing it back with the other ingredients ensures that every bite is infused with the delicious sauce. Using a crockpot allows for a hands-off cooking experience, making it ideal for busy cooks!
FAQ
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes! You can prepare everything in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. Just add it to the crockpot as instructed when you’re ready to enjoy.
What can I serve with Chicken Tortellini?
This dish stands beautifully on its own, but you can complement it with a crisp green salad or some crusty bread to mop up the creamy sauce.
Conclusion
In just a few simple steps, you can create a delightful bowl of crockpot Chicken Tortellini that’s bound to become a family favorite. The combination of tender chicken, rich and creamy sauce, and cheesy tortellini makes for a satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug. Perfect for any day of the week, this recipe is sure to make your dinner nights easier and more delicious!