There’s something deeply comforting about a meal that feels like a warm hug. And if that meal involves a CrockPot brimming with tender chicken and cheesy tortellini in a luscious, creamy broth, then we’re on the fast track to cozy dinner bliss. This CrockPot Chicken Tortellini brings together the best of comfort food without hours spent hovering over the stove. You’ll find yourself drifting in and out of the kitchen throughout the day, curious to peek at the slow-cooking magic, only to discover a rich tapestry of flavors melding together in harmony. With every stir, you’ll notice the way the broth thickens, the way the chicken yields to effortless shredding, and the way each tortellini pocket puffs with melted cheese.
As a busy home cook, you’ll appreciate how this recipe requires just a handful of pantry staples and minimal prep time, yet delivers a restaurant-worthy experience. The combination of garlic and onion powders, dried basil, and Parmesan cheese creates that signature savory depth, while a hint of fresh parsley at the end adds a pop of green brightness. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family on a chilly evening or whipping up a make-ahead meal to enjoy later, this CrockPot Chicken Tortellini is destined to become a weeknight hero. By the time the timer dings, you’ll be greeted by a bubbling, fragrant pot of creamy goodness that beckons everyone to the table. Trust me—once you try it, it will be on heavy rotation in your dinner lineup.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN CROCKPOT CHICKEN TORTELLINI
Before diving into the cooking process, let’s take a closer look at the star players in this dish. Each ingredient has its purpose, from building that rich base to adding layers of flavor and creamy indulgence. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
These lean cuts become incredibly tender as they slow-cook, soaking up all the surrounding flavors and providing the hearty protein foundation for the dish.
- Frozen cheese tortellini
The perfect little pasta pockets filled with cheese that puff up beautifully in the savory broth, adding a satisfying bite and gooey center.
- Chicken broth
Serves as the flavorful liquid base, enhancing the overall depth and ensuring the chicken and tortellini stay moist.
- Cream of chicken soup
Acts as an easy shortcut to a velvety sauce, bringing creaminess and a hint of savory richness without extra fuss.
- Diced tomatoes, drained
Offer a subtle acidity and a burst of tomato flavor, balancing the creaminess and brightening the entire dish.
- Heavy cream
Stirred in at the end, it takes the sauce over the top, creating a luxuriously silky texture that clings to every tortellini and strand of shredded chicken.
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Adds a nutty, salty bite that enhances the sauce’s complexity and helps thicken it slightly as it melts.
- Garlic powder
Infuses a mellow, savory garlic flavor that permeates the entire pot without the need to sauté fresh cloves.
- Onion powder
Contributes subtle sweetness and depth, building flavor in harmony with the garlic powder.
- Dried basil
Delivers an aromatic herbal note, evoking the essence of Italian cuisine and tying the ingredients together.
- Salt
Heightens and balances all the flavors, ensuring each bite is perfectly seasoned.
- Black pepper
Provides a gentle warmth and a hint of spiciness that cuts through the creaminess.
- Olive oil
Coats the chicken at the start, helping the seasonings adhere and adding a smooth mouthfeel.
- Chopped fresh parsley
A bright, fresh garnish that adds color contrast and a light, herbaceous finish.
HOW TO MAKE CROCKPOT CHICKEN TORTELLINI
Slow cooking is all about simplicity and letting the ingredients shine. Follow these steps to transform those pantry staples into a comforting, creamy dinner:
1. Add the chicken breasts to the CrockPot. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken, then sprinkle on garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil, salt, and black pepper, ensuring each piece is evenly coated and ready to infuse with flavor.
2. Pour in the chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, and drained diced tomatoes. Use a spoon to gently stir the mixture, distributing the soup and tomatoes around the chicken without breaking up the pieces.
3. Cover the CrockPot and set it to low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours. Let the chicken cook until it’s completely tender and easily pierced with a fork.
4. Once the chicken is done, use two forks to shred it directly in the slow cooker. Mix the shredded meat into the seasoned broth so it absorbs all the juices.
5. Add the frozen cheese tortellini and stir to combine. Cover again and cook on low for an additional 20–25 minutes, or until the tortellini is soft and plump.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Allow it to warm through for 5–10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
7. Sprinkle the top with chopped fresh parsley if desired, then serve your CrockPot Chicken Tortellini hot, dishing out generous portions of tender chicken, cheesy pasta, and luscious sauce.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR CROCKPOT CHICKEN TORTELLINI
When it comes to serving this cozy meal, you can elevate it with simple accompaniments that turn a weeknight dinner into a special experience. The creamy sauce and tender ingredients pair beautifully with contrasting textures and complementary flavors. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a family night in, these ideas will help you present your CrockPot Chicken Tortellini at its best.
- Crispy Garlic Bread
Slice a fresh baguette, brush with melted butter mixed with garlic powder and parsley, then toast until golden. The crunch and garlic aroma are perfect for sopping up every last drop of creamy sauce.
- Steamed Green Vegetables
Lightly steam broccoli florets or green beans until bright green and tender-crisp. These add a vibrant pop of color and a healthy contrast to the richness of the tortellini.
- Simple Garden Salad
Combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and red onion. Dress with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess and refresh the palate between bites.
- Parmesan Crostini
Thinly slice rustic bread, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with grated Parmesan, and bake until crisp. These bite-sized toasts add a salty crunch that complements the soft pasta.
HOW TO STORE CROCKPOT CHICKEN TORTELLINI
Leftovers of this creamy tortellini dish only get better with time, as the flavors continue to meld. Proper storage will help preserve the texture and taste for days to come. Here are some guidelines to keep your CrockPot Chicken Tortellini fresh and delicious:
- Refrigerate Promptly
Transfer cooled leftovers into an airtight container within two hours of cooking. Store in the fridge for up to 3–4 days, keeping the sauce thick by giving it a quick stir before reheating.
- Portion and Freeze
Divide the meal into single-serve freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Reheat Gently
When warming refrigerated portions, use medium heat on the stove or 50% power in the microwave. Stir every minute to ensure even heating and prevent the cream from separating.
- Revive Creaminess
If the sauce seems too thick after storage, stir in a splash of chicken broth or heavy cream while reheating to restore that smooth, velvety texture.
CONCLUSION
Preparing a meal that feels both indulgent and effortless is one of the greatest pleasures of home cooking, and this CrockPot Chicken Tortellini checks every box. From the moment you set your slow cooker on low, you can walk away with confidence, knowing that tender chicken, cheesy pasta, and a dreamy, creamy sauce will be waiting when you return. We’ve walked through all the key ingredients—each chosen for its flavor and function—shared detailed step-by-step instructions, and even provided a handful of creative serving suggestions to make your meal feel restaurant-quality at home. Plus, with smart storage tips, you can enjoy the leftovers all week without losing any of that rich flavor.
Feel free to print this article and save it for later use, and don’t miss the FAQ below for answers to common questions about making this dish. If you try this CrockPot Chicken Tortellini, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment, share your favorite twists, or ask any questions if you need help along the way. Your feedback and stories always brighten my day and inspire more delicious creations in the kitchen. Enjoy every creamy, comforting bite!
CrockPot Chicken Tortellini
Description
This comforting dish combines tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and a creamy broth, making it the perfect meal to warm you up on chilly days. Easy to prepare, it's sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
Instructions
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Begin by adding the chicken breasts to the CrockPot. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken and season with garlic powder, onion powder, basil, salt, and pepper.
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Pour the chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, and diced tomatoes (drained) into the CrockPot, stirring gently to combine the ingredients.
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Cover the CrockPot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
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Once the chicken is cooked, shred the chicken directly in the CrockPot using two forks.
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Add the frozen cheese tortellini to the CrockPot and stir it into the broth mixture. Cover the pot again and cook on low for an additional 20-25 minutes (or until the tortellini is tender and cooked through).
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Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until well combined. Let it heat through for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Once everything is well combined, garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Note
- You can easily make this recipe ahead of time by prepping the ingredients the night before and refrigerating them until you're ready to start cooking.
- For a richer flavor, consider adding 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese along with the Parmesan.
- If you want to make this recipe even heartier, add some fresh spinach or kale in the last 10 minutes of cooking, allowing it to wilt and add more flavor and nutrition.
- This dish is perfect for leftovers! The flavors continue to meld together, making it even tastier the next day.
