Description
This Creamy Spinach Tortellini Chicken Casserole is a comforting slow-cooker meal featuring tender shredded chicken, cheese-filled tortellini, and a savory tomato cream sauce infused with Italian herbs and spices. Easy to prepare and perfect for a family dinner, this recipe layers flavors and textures, finishing with fresh spinach and Parmesan cheese for a deliciously creamy and satisfying casserole.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Sauce
- Olive oil spray
- 1 ½ lb chicken breast (about 4 medium breasts)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion granules
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning mix
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb cheese tortellini
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 cups baby spinach
- â…“ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Spray the slow cooker insert generously with olive oil spray to prevent sticking during cooking.
- Add Chicken and Seasonings: Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Pour in the marinara sauce and chicken broth. Sprinkle garlic powder, onion granules, Italian seasoning, paprika, and red chili flakes evenly over the chicken.
- Cook Chicken: Cover and cook on LOW setting for 4 hours, allowing the chicken to become tender and infused with the flavorful sauce.
- Shred the Chicken: Remove the cooked chicken breasts from the slow cooker and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to combine with the sauce.
- Add Tortellini and Cream: Stir in the cheese tortellini, shredded mozzarella cheese, and heavy cream into the slow cooker. Cover and cook for an additional 30 minutes to cook the tortellini through and meld the creamy texture.
- Finish with Spinach and Parmesan: Add the baby spinach and grated Parmesan cheese to the slow cooker. Stir well to combine and allow the spinach to wilt slightly in the heat. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen cheese tortellini for convenience; adjust cooking time slightly if using frozen to ensure it’s cooked through.
- For a spicier dish, increase the red chili flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- This casserole can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated; reheat gently before serving.
- Substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts for more tender and juicy meat.
- For a lighter version, swap heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, though sauce will be less rich.
