What Makes Crockpot Chicken Tortellini So Special
There’s something truly magical about walking into a home filled with the rich, comforting aroma of tomatoes, herbs, and creamy cheese slowly melding together. This Crockpot Chicken Tortellini is that kind of meal—a warm, hearty embrace that promises to soothe the soul after a long day. It’s the perfect answer to that age-old question: “What kind of sauce goes with crockpot chicken tortellini?” The answer is right here, simmering away.
I first made a version of this for my book club years ago, and now it’s the dish everyone requests. The beauty of this recipe is its heart and its ease. It’s one of those effortless, cheesy tortellini soups that feels like a lavish treat but is so simple to pull together. It’s the kind of meal that gathers everyone around the table, ready to share stories and seconds.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to creating your new favorite tortellini dinner. I love that most are pantry staples!
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 20 oz package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 24 oz jar marinara sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 8 oz block cream cheese, cubed
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Estimated Prep & Cook Time for Crockpot Chicken Tortellini
This easy chicken tortellini recipe is a dream for busy weeknights. A little bit of prep leads to a whole lot of flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3-4 hours on HIGH or 6-7 hours on LOW
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes – 7 hours 15 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s walk through how to make this creamy chicken tortellini. It’s easier than you think!
1. Place the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot. This is your hearty base.
2. Add Liquids
Pour the marinara sauce and chicken broth over the chicken. This creates our flavorful cooking liquid.
3. Season & Add Cream Cheese
Add the cubed cream cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper. The cream cheese will melt into the most luxurious sauce.
4. Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours or on HIGH for 3 hours. The slow cooker does all the work, filling your home with the most incredible aroma.
5. Shred the Chicken
After cooking, shred the chicken right in the pot using two forks. It will be so tender it practically falls apart.
6. Add Tortellini & Cheese
Stir in the refrigerated tortellini and mozzarella cheese. This is where the magic happens!
7. Final Cook
Cover and cook on HIGH for an additional 30-45 minutes, until the tortellini is tender and cooked through.
8. Serve & Enjoy
Stir well, garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve immediately. This creamy chicken tortellini is best enjoyed hot and fresh from the pot.
Pro Tips & Tasty Tweaks
Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks to make this slow cooker tortellini absolutely perfect every single time. Here’s my best advice from my kitchen to yours.
- For More Flavor: Sauté a small, diced onion and a few minced garlic cloves before adding them to the crockpot for a deeper, richer base.
- For a Lighter Version: Use low-fat cream cheese and part-skim mozzarella. It still creates a wonderfully creamy chicken tortellini!
- To Prevent Mushiness: Always use refrigerated (not frozen) tortellini and add it during the last 30-45 minutes of cooking.
- Storage: This dish is best eaten fresh. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth.
Healthier Alternatives for Crockpot Chicken Tortellini
I often get asked, “Can I make chicken tortellini in a crockpot without cream?” or if there are ways to lighten it up. Absolutely! This recipe is wonderfully adaptable.
For a dairy-free version, you can substitute the cream cheese with a block of dairy-free cream cheese alternative and use a plant-based mozzarella. To boost the veggie content, stir in a few handfuls of fresh spinach with the tortellini. It wilts down perfectly and adds a lovely pop of color and nutrients.
How to Serve Crockpot Chicken Tortellini
This dish is a complete meal in a bowl, but I love to serve it with a simple, crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. A thick slice of crusty, warm garlic bread is also non-negotiable for dipping into that glorious sauce.
It reminds me of the big, family-style dinners my mother used to host. This Crockpot Chicken Tortellini is the centerpiece—a comforting, creamy chicken tortellini that invites everyone to slow down, savor, and connect.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to cook chicken tortellini in a crockpot?
The total time for this Crockpot Chicken Tortellini is about 3-4 hours on high or 6-7 hours on low. The key is to cook the chicken first, then add the tortellini for just the last 30-45 minutes to prevent it from becoming too soft.
What is the best way to keep tortellini from getting mushy in a slow cooker?
The secret is to add it late! Always use refrigerated tortellini and stir it in during the final 30-45 minutes of cooking. This gives it just enough time to cook through and soak up flavor without losing its delightful texture.
What kind of sauce goes with crockpot chicken tortellini?
This recipe creates its own luxurious sauce! A blend of marinara, chicken broth, and melted cream cheese and mozzarella makes a rich, creamy, and tomato-based sauce that clings perfectly to every bite of tortellini and chicken.
Can you put raw chicken in a crockpot with tortellini?
Yes, but not at the same time. You start with raw chicken at the bottom of the pot, which cooks fully in the sauce. The tortellini is added much later, once the chicken is cooked and shredded, so it doesn’t overcook.
Is it better to use fresh or frozen tortellini in a slow cooker?
I highly recommend using refrigerated tortellini for the best results. Frozen tortellini can release more starch as it thaws and cooks, potentially making the sauce thicker and the pasta softer than desired.
What can I add to my crockpot chicken tortellini for more flavor?
For a deeper flavor, try sautéing onions and garlic before adding them. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice warmth. You could also stir in a handful of chopped sun-dried tomatoes or a spoonful of pesto at the end for a bright twist.
How do you thicken the sauce for crockpot chicken tortellini soup?
The melted cheeses naturally thicken the sauce beautifully. If you’d like it even thicker, create a quick slurry by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water and stir it in during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
Can I make chicken tortellini in a crockpot without cream?
You can! For a lighter version, simply omit the cream cheese. The sauce will be more brothy, but still delicious. For creaminess without dairy, try stirring in a cup of canned coconut milk or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative at the end.
