Ingredients
Chicken and Sauce
- Olive oil spray
- 1 1/2 lb chicken breast (about 4 medium breasts)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion granules
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning mix
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
Pasta and Cheese
- 1 lb cheese tortellini
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Greens and Toppings
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
Instructions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Spray your slow cooker with olive oil or a non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Add Chicken: Arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer on the bottom of the slow cooker for even cooking.
- Add Sauce and Seasonings: Pour marinara sauce, garlic powder, onion granules, Italian seasoning, paprika, red chili flakes, and chicken broth over the chicken, ensuring it’s fully submerged in the liquid.
- Cook Chicken: Cover and cook on LOW for 4 hours until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (check with a meat thermometer).
- Shred Chicken: Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
- Combine with Pasta and Dairy: Return shredded chicken to the slow cooker, add cheese tortellini, shredded mozzarella, and heavy cream. Stir to fully combine and cover the tortellini with liquid.
- Cook Tortellini: Cover and cook on LOW for 30 minutes until the tortellini is tender.
- Add Spinach: Stir in baby spinach and cook for an additional 10 minutes until wilted.
- Finish and Serve: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, adjust seasoning as needed, and serve immediately for a creamy, hearty meal.
Notes
- Use fresh baby spinach for best texture and flavor.
- Ensure the chicken is fully cooked to 165°F for food safety.
- If using frozen tortellini, you may need to increase the cooking time slightly.
- For a spicier dish, increase red chili flakes according to taste.
- This dish can be doubled in a larger slow cooker for more servings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian-American