Introduction
Welcome to a cozy evening in your kitchen! If you’re in the mood for a dish that’s rich, creamy, and oh-so-satisfying, then this Crockpot Chicken Alfredo Tortellini is perfect for you. Picture tender chunks of chicken swimming in a velvety Alfredo sauce, paired with delicious cheese tortellini. The best part? It all comes together effortlessly in your slow cooker, leaving you more time to enjoy your evening. Let’s dive into the heartwarming details of this delightful meal!
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 (16 oz) package cheese tortellini
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
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
- Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot, making sure they’re snug and ready for flavor.
- Pour the chicken broth gently over the chicken, creating a savory base.
- Add the minced garlic and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, letting those lovely aromas fill the air.
- Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6 hours, or if you’re in a hurry, crank it up to high for 3 hours.
- Once the chicken is thoroughly cooked and tender, shred it right in the crockpot using two forks, allowing it to mix with the broth.
- Pour in the heavy cream and add in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring well to create that creamy goodness.
- Next, toss in the cheese tortellini, stirring to ensure they’re coated with the Alfredo sauce.
- Cover the crockpot again and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes, or until those little pasta pillows are tender and plump.
- Season to taste with salt and pepper, adjusting based on your preference.
- Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for that gorgeous pop of color and flavor!
Notes or Tips
For a little extra flavor, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking. If you’re looking to lighten it up, you can swap the heavy cream for half-and-half. Just remember, the key to this dish’s delight is in the creamy texture, so adjust accordingly!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe relies on the slow cooker to develop deep, rich flavors. The long cooking time ensures the chicken becomes tender and fully infuses the broth with its essence. Shredding the chicken directly in the crockpot allows it to soak up the creamy Alfredo sauce, making every bite utterly delicious.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to adjust the cooking time. Increase the low cooking time by about an hour, or the high cooking time by 30 minutes.
What can I serve with this dish?
This creamy tortellini dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or some garlic bread to soak up the luscious sauce.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients the night before, then simply cook them in the crockpot the next day. Just ensure to refrigerate everything until you’re ready to start cooking.
Conclusion
Your family will adore this Crockpot Chicken Alfredo Tortellini for its creamy texture and rich flavors. Plus, the simplicity of the crockpot makes it an easy choice for a busy weeknight dinner! So, gather around the table, serve up this heartwarming dish, and enjoy the smiles that follow. Happy cooking!