Description
This Slow Cooker Chicken Tortellini recipe is a comforting, easy-to-make meal perfect for busy days. Tender chicken breasts slowly simmer in a flavorful blend of chicken broth and marinara sauce, infused with garlic and onion powder. Cheese tortellini cooks right in the sauce, then everything is topped with melty mozzarella and savory parmesan cheese for a cheesy, satisfying Italian-inspired dish.
Ingredients
Chicken and Sauce
- 4 medium chicken breasts
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups marinara sauce (or one 15.5 oz jar)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
Pasta and Cheese
- 20 oz cheese tortellini (fresh, refrigerated, can also use frozen)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded parmesan cheese (for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the slow cooker: Coat the slow cooker insert with non-stick spray or a light layer of oil to prevent sticking.
- Place chicken in slow cooker: Arrange the 4 medium chicken breasts evenly at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add sauce ingredients: Pour in 2 cups chicken broth and 2 cups marinara sauce over the chicken. Sprinkle 1 tsp garlic powder and 1 tsp onion powder evenly atop.
- Cook chicken: Cover and cook on low heat for 3-4 hours, until the chicken breasts are thoroughly cooked and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Shred chicken: Remove the cooked chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken back into the sauce inside the slow cooker and stir to combine.
- Add tortellini and mozzarella: Add 20 oz cheese tortellini and 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese to the slow cooker. Stir well to submerge the tortellini as much as possible in the liquid to ensure even cooking.
- Cook tortellini: Cover and continue cooking on low for an additional 15-30 minutes, or until the tortellini is tender and fully cooked through.
- Finish and serve: Sprinkle ½ cup shredded parmesan cheese over the top before serving. Serve hot and enjoy your creamy, cheesy slow cooker chicken tortellini!
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen tortellini as preferred; cooking times may vary slightly.
- For extra flavor, add fresh herbs like basil or oregano if desired.
- Make sure chicken reaches internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
- You can substitute marinara sauce with your favorite pasta sauce.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
