Introduction
Welcome to a heartwarming, comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights! This crockpot chicken tortellini recipe is the epitome of wholesome goodness, combining tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and delightful cheese tortellini in a rich, creamy sauce. It’s a one-pot wonder that allows the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day. Just set it and forget it, and soon you’ll be savoring a bowl of this deliciousness that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cups cheese tortellini, fresh or frozen
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by placing the boneless chicken breasts at the bottom of your trusty crockpot, creating a foundation for the deliciousness to follow.
- Pour in the chicken broth along with the diced tomatoes, allowing their juicy flavors to blend with the chicken.
- Next, sprinkle in the frozen peas and corn, and add the Italian seasoning for a burst of herby aroma that will tantalize your senses.
- Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6 hours, or on high for 3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it into bite-sized pieces using two forks.
- Return the shredded chicken back to the crockpot and gently stir in the cheese tortellini, ensuring they’re nestled among the flavorful sauce.
- Cover once more and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes, or until the tortellini is tender and cooked through.
- Finally, stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste, making the dish rich and creamy.
- If desired, sprinkle fresh parsley on top as a vibrant garnish before serving. Enjoy!
Notes or Tips
Feel free to customize this dish! You can add in your favorite vegetables, like diced bell peppers or spinach, for extra nutrition. If you prefer a lighter version, consider substituting half-and-half for the heavy cream. And don’t hesitate to adjust the seasoning based on your preference; a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe primarily utilizes the low-and-slow cooking technique, which allows the chicken to become incredibly tender and absorb the flavors of the broth and spices. Shredding the chicken is a fantastic way to incorporate it back into the dish seamlessly, while the tortellini cooks to perfection in the creamy sauce. Using frozen veggies not only saves time but also ensures that the dish is packed with vibrant color and nutrition.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken breasts? Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts; just increase the cooking time by an hour when cooking on low.
Can this be made in advance? Absolutely! You can prepare it the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat in the crockpot on low for a couple of hours before serving.
What can I serve with this dish? This soup-like dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Conclusion
There you have it! A delightful recipe for crockpot chicken tortellini that is not only easy to prepare but also delivers a flavor punch that warms the heart. Perfect for family dinners or for impressing guests with minimal effort. Dive in, savor each bite, and let this dish bring warmth and joy to your table!