Description
A rich, indulgent, and fuss-free slow cooker meal featuring tender shredded chicken, creamy cheese tortellini, and a luxurious garlic butter sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 to 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 15-ounce package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 3–4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Trim excess fat from chicken breasts and cut in half if large to ensure even thickness. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Place seasoned chicken breasts in the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker.
- Whisk together heavy cream, chicken broth, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Pour over the chicken.
- Scatter cubed cream cheese over the chicken and sauce. Do not stir yet.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours, until chicken reaches 165°F and shreds easily.
- Remove chicken and shred using two forks. Set aside.
- Cook tortellini separately according to package directions OR add to slow cooker during the last 45 minutes on LOW. For best texture, cooking separately is recommended.
- Add shredded chicken and cooked tortellini back into the slow cooker with the sauce.
- Stir in grated parmesan cheese until melted and sauce is thick and creamy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
Refrigerated tortellini is recommended over dried to prevent mushiness. Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature for smooth melting. If the sauce is too thin, cook uncovered for the last 15 minutes to reduce. If too thick, add a splash of chicken broth. This dish does not freeze well due to the dairy sauce; freeze chicken and sauce separately from tortellini if necessary.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-5 hours (LOW) or 2-3 hours (HIGH)
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1.5 cu
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 4
- Sodium: 800
- Fat: 45
- Saturated Fat: 25
- Carbohydrates: 35
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 35
Keywords: crockpot ravioli, cheesy chicken, slow cooker dinner, easy weeknight meals, comfort food, creamy pasta, family friendly recipes