If you are searching for a cozy, yet impressive dinner that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, the Slow Cooker Marry Me Tortellini Recipe is an absolute must-try. This dish features tender chicken simmered with creamy, cheesy tortellini in a rich sun-drenched tomato sauce, all effortlessly cooked to perfection in your slow cooker. The marriage of flavors — from garlic and basil to Parmesan and Cajun spices — creates a sensational experience that’s both comforting and fancy, perfect for weeknights or a special gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering straightforward yet vibrant ingredients is key to making this dish truly sing. Each element plays a role in layering flavor, adding texture, or creating the creamy sauce that defines this dish.
- 600 g chicken breasts or cutlets: Using trimmed chicken ensures lean, tender meat that easily shreds in the slow cooker.
- 600 g fresh or refrigerated cheese tortellini: The star carb that soaks up the luscious sauce beautifully; thaw if frozen for even cooking.
- 1 jar (approx. 200 g) sun-dried tomatoes in oil: Adds an intense, tangy sweet burst of flavor that lifts the entire dish.
- 1 onion, finely chopped (about 100 g): Provides subtle sweetness and depth to the base.
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced: Essential for that aromatic punch that pairs perfectly with Italian-inspired dishes.
- 350 ml chicken stock: The savory foundation to your sauce, keeping everything moist and flavorful.
- 250 ml heavy cream: Rich and velvety, creating a decadent sauce that coats every bite.
- 80 g freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Adds nutty saltiness and helps thicken the sauce — plus extra for garnish.
- 15 fresh basil leaves, sliced: For a fresh and herbaceous finish.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter: Used for browning chicken and sautéing aromatics, lending richness.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Helps brown and flavor the chicken without sticking.
- 1.5 tsp Italian seasoning mix: A classic blend that spices the sauce with herbs like oregano and thyme.
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning: Adds a subtle kick and complexity without overwhelming the dish.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste, balancing all the flavors perfectly.
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional): For thickening the sauce if you prefer a heartier consistency.
How to Make Slow Cooker Marry Me Tortellini Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Chicken and Sauté Aromatics
Start by preheating your slow cooker on the sauté function and add the butter and olive oil. Brown the chicken on both sides for about two minutes each to lock in flavor. Shift the chicken aside and toss in the onion and garlic, sautéing for another minute until fragrant. If your slow cooker doesn’t have a sauté setting, just layer the raw, seasoned chicken with onion and garlic at the bottom to cook together slowly.
Step 2: Add Liquids and Seasonings
Pour in the chicken stock and heavy cream, then add the sun-dried tomatoes along with the Italian and Cajun seasonings. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This mixture creates the luscious sauce that will make your tortellini irresistible.
Step 3: Slow Cook the Chicken
Cover the slow cooker and set it on high. Let the chicken cook for about three hours until it is wonderfully tender and easy to shred.
Step 4: Shred Chicken and Add Cheese and Tortellini
Using two forks, shred the chicken right in the slow cooker, blending it into the sauce. Stir in the Parmesan cheese so it melts into the creamy sauce, adding richness and a subtle tang. Next, add the tortellini, making sure it is fully submerged for even cooking. Cover and cook for an additional 15 minutes until the pasta is just tender.
Step 5: Finish with Fresh Basil and Serve
Fold in the sliced basil leaves to infuse the dish with a bright herbal note. Switch your slow cooker to the keep warm setting to maintain the perfect temperature while you prepare to serve. Garnish with extra Parmesan for that finishing touch of cheesy goodness.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Marry Me Tortellini Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan, a few basil leaves, or even a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can elevate each serving. These small touches add freshness and a pop of color that turns this comforting dish into a feast for the eyes and palate.
Side Dishes
This rich tortellini pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed seasonal vegetables for balance. Garlic bread or crusty ciabatta are fantastic to soak up the creamy sauce, making every bite decadent and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this dish straight from the slow cooker in rustic bowls that showcase its creamy texture. For special occasions, plate it with a sprinkle of chili flakes for a spicy kick and a side of roasted cherry tomatoes to add a sweet contrast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making for an even tastier meal the next day. Consume within 3 days for the best quality.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well. Portion the tortellini with sauce and chicken into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken stock or cream if the sauce has thickened too much, restoring its silky consistency.
FAQs
Can I use frozen tortellini instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw frozen tortellini before adding to the slow cooker to ensure it cooks evenly during the final 15 minutes.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you prefer a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, but keep in mind the sauce will be less rich and slightly thinner.
Is it possible to make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Use the sauté function to brown the chicken and garlic, then pressure cook on high for about 12 minutes before adding tortellini and switching to the sauté setting again for 15 minutes.
Can I prepare this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Replace chicken with mushrooms or a medley of hearty vegetables, and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock for a vegetarian-friendly twist.
Should I stir the dish while cooking?
For the best results, avoid stirring during the long cooking phase to allow the chicken to cook undisturbed and shredding easily once done. Stir only when adding the tortellini.
Final Thoughts
Making the Slow Cooker Marry Me Tortellini Recipe is like inviting a delicious, comforting hug into your kitchen. With its effortless cooking process and incredible flavor, it’s no wonder this dish can quickly become a beloved staple in your dinner rotation. Give it a try and watch it bring warmth and smiles to your table with every creamy, cheesy bite.
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Slow Cooker Marry Me Tortellini Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Slow Cooker Marry Me Tortellini is a comforting and creamy one-pot meal featuring tender shredded chicken, cheese tortellini, and a luscious sun-dried tomato cream sauce infused with Italian and Cajun seasonings. Perfect for a hands-off dinner, it combines rich flavors and creamy textures with the convenience of slow cooking.
Ingredients
Protein and Pasta
- 600 g chicken breasts or cutlets, trimmed
- 600 g fresh or refrigerated cheese tortellini, thawed if frozen
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 jar (approx. 200 g) sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and julienned
- 1 onion, finely chopped (about 100 g)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 15 fresh basil leaves, sliced
Liquids and Dairy
- 350 ml chicken stock
- 250 ml heavy cream
- 80 g freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
Fats and Oils
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Seasonings
- 1.5 tsp Italian seasoning mix
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (for thickening sauce, optional)
Instructions
- Brown the Chicken and Sauté Aromatics: Preheat your slow cooker using the sauté function. Add butter and olive oil, then brown the chicken breasts on each side for 2 minutes until lightly golden. Move the chicken to the side and sauté the finely chopped onion and minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant. If your slow cooker doesn’t have a sauté function, add the raw seasoned chicken, onion, and garlic directly to the base of the slow cooker.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken stock and heavy cream, then add the julienned sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper over the chicken and aromatics, ensuring everything is well combined.
- Slow Cook the Chicken: Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on High for 3 hours. During this time, the chicken will become tender and infused with all the flavorful ingredients.
- Shred the Chicken and Add Cheese: Once the chicken is cooked and tender, shred it directly in the slow cooker with two forks. Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese to enrich the sauce and chicken mixture.
- Cook the Tortellini: Add the thawed cheese tortellini to the slow cooker, making sure it is fully submerged in the sauce. Cover and cook for an additional 15 minutes, or until the tortellini is just tender.
- Finish with Basil and Serve: Fold in the sliced fresh basil leaves to brighten the flavors. Switch the slow cooker to the ‘keep warm’ setting to maintain temperature until ready to serve. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese if desired before serving.
Notes
- If your slow cooker lacks a sauté function, you can brown the chicken and sauté the aromatics separately in a pan before adding everything to the slow cooker.
- The optional cornstarch can be mixed with a small amount of cold water and stirred in after shredding the chicken to thicken the sauce if you prefer a richer consistency.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half and reduce butter to 1 tablespoon.
- If you like extra spice, add red pepper flakes along with the Cajun seasoning.
- This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a full meal.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
