Hey there! Are you in the mood for a comforting and creamy meal that practically cooks itself? Let me introduce you to my favorite Crockpot Chicken Alfredo Tortellini! This dish is a real winner in my kitchen—it’s super easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights, and oh-so-delicious! Seriously, you’ll feel like a culinary star, and your family will be begging for seconds (maybe even thirds!). Plus, this recipe is customizable, so let’s dive into it!
Nutritional Benefits
Now, I know what you might be thinking—creamy dishes aren’t usually on the ‘healthy’ list. But the great thing about this dish is you can sneak in some nutritious ingredients! The chicken provides lean protein, while the spinach adds a lovely boost of vitamins and minerals. Not to mention, the tortellini can be made with whole wheat if you want an extra fiber punch. You get the rich, cheesy delight without completely sacrificing health! Isn’t that a win-win?
Fun Variations to Make
What I love about this recipe is how flexible it is! Here are some fun tweaks you can try:
- Switch the Protein: Not feeling chicken? You can easily substitute diced turkey or even keep it vegetarian with some chickpeas!
- Choose Different Greens: Don’t have spinach? Toss in kale or frozen peas for a veggie boost!
- Make it Lighter: Use low-fat cream and cheese if you’d like a lighter version, and it’ll still be creamy!
- Add a Twist: Try adding sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms for an extra flavor dimension!
- Spice It Up: For heat lovers, throw in jalapeños or use spicy Italian sausage instead!
Easy Crockpot Chicken Alfredo Tortellini Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 package (about 20 oz) cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups spinach (optional, for added greens)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
Instructions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Spray the inside of the crockpot with non-stick cooking spray. This really helps with cleanup later.
- Add Chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts right into the bottom of the slow cooker. They deserve a cozy spot!
- Mix in Broth and Seasoning: Pour the chicken broth over the chicken. Then add garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Give it a little stir to spread those flavors around.
- Cook the Chicken: Cover the slow cooker and let it do its magic. Cook on low for about 4-5 hours, or high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker. Use two forks to shred it—this is the fun part! Return the shredded chicken back to the pot.
- Add Cream, Cheese, and Tortellini: Now, pour in that rich heavy cream and sprinkle in the grated Parmesan. Add the cheese tortellini and any spinach if you’re using it. Stir everything together until well mixed—it’s starting to look good!
- Cook Again: Cover and cook on low for another 30-45 minutes, or until the tortellini is tender and the sauce is creamy. Don’t forget to stir occasionally to keep things well combined!
- Adjust Seasoning: Before serving, taste the dish. Feel free to add extra salt, pepper, or those red pepper flakes if you’re feeling spicy!
- Serve: Scoop that delightful Chicken Alfredo Tortellini onto your plates, top with fresh parsley for a pop of color, and dig in!
Practical & Valuable Tips
- If you’re using frozen tortellini, don’t thaw it before you put it in the slow cooker—just toss it in frozen and let it cook right alongside everything else!
- If you find the sauce too thick, feel free to add a bit more chicken broth or cream to reach your desired consistency.
- Leftovers? Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, although I doubt you’ll have much left over!
Equipment Needed
Before you start cooking, here’s a quick list of equipment to have on hand:
- A slow cooker (obviously!)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- A couple of forks for shredding chicken
- A stirring spoon
- A serving spoon (because you’re gonna want to serve this up nicely!)
- A cutting board
- A knife for any chopping you may do (if you’re adding extras like veggies)
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this dish vegetarian? Absolutely! Swap the chicken for diced tofu or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for an easy veggie-friendly option.
- Is this recipe freezer-friendly? Yes! Just store the leftovers in an airtight container, and it will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
- What can I serve with Chicken Alfredo Tortellini? A simple side salad or some garlic bread makes a fantastic pairing!
- Can I use other types of tortellini? Definitely! Feel free to experiment with different fillings like spinach, mushroom, or different cheeses—your choice!
- How do I know when the chicken is cooked? It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) when done. You can use a meat thermometer for an accurate read!
Are you ready to whip up this creamy, dreamy dinner? I can’t wait to hear how your Chicken Alfredo Tortellini turns out! Snap a pic and let me know by sharing it on Pinterest! Happy cooking, friends!
