Go Back

CrockPot Chicken Tortellini

Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 10 minutes
Servings 6 servings

Equipment

  • 1 CrockPot (4–6 quarts)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • A mixing bowl
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Ingredients
  

  • 1½ lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
  • 1 19 oz bag of frozen cheese tortellini
  • 2 cups baby spinach optional but recommended
  • 1 10.5 oz can cream of chicken soup
  • 1 8 oz block cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the base: Add chicken breasts, cream of chicken soup, cream cheese, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning to your CrockPot. Stir slightly to combine.
  • Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4 hours (or high for 2).
  • Shred the chicken: Once cooked, shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker using two forks.
  • Add tortellini and spinach: Stir in the frozen tortellini and spinach, then top with mozzarella.
  • Cook again: Cover and cook for another 20–30 minutes on low, or until the tortellini are tender and the sauce is creamy.
  • Serve hot: Garnish with a sprinkle of parmesan or fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

Tips for Making the Perfect CrockPot Chicken Tortellini

  • Use room-temp cream cheese so it melts evenly into the sauce.
  • Don’t overcook the tortellini — they cook fast and can get mushy if left too long.
  • Add veggies like mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for more texture.
  • For extra flavor, sear your chicken in a skillet before adding it to the CrockPot.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Adding tortellini too early: This is the #1 mistake. Always add them in the last 30 minutes.
  • Skipping the broth: Without enough liquid, your sauce can turn too thick or burn.
  • Using low-fat dairy: It can separate under heat, so stick with full-fat ingredients for the best texture.

Variations and Substitutions

  • Swap the protein: Try shredded rotisserie chicken, turkey, or Italian sausage.
  • Go vegetarian: Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth with mushrooms and extra spinach.
  • Change the flavor: Replace cream of chicken soup with Alfredo sauce or use pesto for a fresher twist.
  • Add heat: Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.