If you’ve been searching for a dish that brings together comfort, flavor, and a touch of elegance, then this Creamy Spinach Tortellini Chicken Casserole Recipe is exactly what your dinner table needs. Imagine tender chicken slow-cooked in a rich and savory marinara sauce, mingling with cheesy tortellini, vibrant spinach, and a luscious creaminess that makes every bite a celebration of textures and tastes. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for family dinners or impressing guests with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this casserole lies in its simple, essential ingredients that each play a vital role in building flavor, texture, and color. From the hearty chicken breast to the creamy cheeses and fresh spinach, everything combines effortlessly for a dish that tastes as good as it looks.
- Olive oil spray: Helps prevent sticking and adds a subtle boost of healthy fat to start your slow cooker right.
- 1 ½ lb chicken breast (about 4 medium breasts): The star protein that becomes beautifully tender and juicy through slow cooking.
- 2 cups marinara sauce: Provides a rich tomato base that lifts the flavors with zest and sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Offers that classic savory punch without overpowering the dish.
- 1 teaspoon onion granules: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth, rounding out the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning mix: Brings aromatic herbs like oregano and basil for a true Italian flair.
- ½ teaspoon paprika: Introduces a gentle smoky warmth and vibrant color.
- ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes: Adds just the right amount of heat to awaken the palate.
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth: Keeps everything juicy and infuses more savory flavor into the chicken and sauce.
- 1 lb cheese tortellini: Brings pasta delight with its cheesy filling that melts seamlessly into the casserole.
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: For gooey, stretchy cheesiness that elevates every forkful.
- ½ cup heavy cream: The key to that irresistibly creamy texture that makes this casserole so comforting.
- 2 cups baby spinach: Adds freshness, color, and a lovely bite to balance richness and keep things bright.
- ⅓ cup Parmesan cheese, grated: Delivers an umami punch and a slightly nutty finish.
How to Make Creamy Spinach Tortellini Chicken Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep and layer the base
Start by giving your slow cooker a light coat of olive oil spray; this simple step saves you from any sticky mess and helps with easy cleanup later. Then place your chicken breasts in the cooker, making sure they’re laid out evenly to cook through beautifully.
Step 2: Add flavorful seasonings and liquids
Now it’s time to build that delicious flavor foundation. Pour in the marinara sauce and chicken broth, followed by garlic powder, onion granules, Italian seasoning, paprika, and red chili flakes. These spices and herbs infuse the chicken with layers of savory, spicy, and herbal notes during the slow cook.
Step 3: Slow cook to tender perfection
Cover your slow cooker and set it to LOW for 4 hours. This slow and steady cooking lets the chicken soak up all those incredible flavors and become tender enough to shred effortlessly.
Step 4: Shred and reintroduce the chicken
When the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken breasts and shred them using two forks. Then return the shredded chicken into the slow cooker, giving the sauce even more meaty goodness to cling to.
Step 5: Stir in tortellini, cheese, and cream
Mix in the cheese tortellini, shredded mozzarella, and heavy cream. Cover again and cook for an additional 30 minutes so the tortellini cooks through and the cheese melts into a divine creamy sauce that wraps every component in luscious richness.
Step 6: Finish with spinach and Parmesan
Finally, stir in fresh baby spinach and grated Parmesan cheese. Let the residual heat just wilt the spinach, preserving its vibrant color and fresh flavor, while the Parmesan adds a delightful sharpness. Give it a taste to adjust seasoning if needed, then it’s ready to serve.
How to Serve Creamy Spinach Tortellini Chicken Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle extra Parmesan or freshly chopped basil on top before serving for a fresh, herbaceous lift. Crushed red pepper flakes are perfect for those who love a little extra kick, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil adds a finishing touch of richness.
Side Dishes
This casserole is hearty enough to be a main event, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread can elevate the meal even further. Light roasted vegetables or a simple arugula and cherry tomato salad offer refreshing contrasts to the creamy richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve it straight from the slow cooker for a cozy family meal or transfer to a beautiful baking dish to make it visually stunning for guests. Layer it in individual ramekins for a charming presentation at dinner parties or potlucks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Creamy Spinach Tortellini Chicken Casserole Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 3 days, so you can relish every last bite without any waste.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or heat the casserole gently in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F until heated through. A splash of chicken broth or cream can be stirred in during reheating if it seems a bit dry.
FAQs
Can I use frozen tortellini instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen tortellini work just as well—just add an extra 5 to 10 minutes to the cooking time to ensure they’re cooked through and tender.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you prefer a lighter option, half-and-half works, though the casserole won’t be quite as rich. For a dairy-free alternative, coconut cream can be used and will add a subtle sweetness.
Can I make this casserole without a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Simply cook the chicken with seasonings in a large skillet and simmer in sauce until cooked, then combine everything in a casserole dish and bake in the oven until the tortellini is tender and cheese is melted.
Is it possible to use different types of cheese?
Definitely. Mozzarella and Parmesan are classic for this recipe, but you can experiment with provolone, fontina, or even a sharp cheddar to change up the flavor profile.
How spicy is this casserole with the red chili flakes?
The ¼ teaspoon of red chili flakes adds just a gentle heat that enhances flavors without overpowering. You can adjust it up or down based on your spice preference.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend enough giving this Creamy Spinach Tortellini Chicken Casserole Recipe a try. It’s comfort food elevated to a loving, flavorful masterpiece that’s perfect for any night you want something hearty but fuss-free. Once you savor the creamy sauce, tender chicken, and cheesy tortellini all wrapped in nutritious spinach, it will quickly become one of your go-to crowd-pleasers. Enjoy every bite!
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Creamy Spinach Tortellini Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Creamy Spinach Tortellini Chicken Casserole is a comforting and easy slow cooker recipe combining tender chicken, cheese-filled tortellini, and a rich, flavorful sauce. Infused with Italian seasonings and creamy cheeses, it’s perfect for a hassle-free weeknight dinner that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
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
Pasta and Cheese
- 1 lb cheese tortellini
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup heavy cream
Greens and Toppings
- 2 cups baby spinach
- ⅓ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions
- Prepare Slow Cooker: Lightly coat the inside of the slow cooker with olive oil spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Cook Chicken and Sauce: Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Add marinara sauce, garlic powder, onion granules, Italian seasoning, paprika, red chili flakes, and chicken broth around the chicken. Cover and cook on LOW for 4 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Shred Chicken: Remove the chicken breasts carefully from the slow cooker and shred them using two forks or your hands. 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, and heavy cream. Cover again and cook on LOW for an additional 30 minutes, allowing the tortellini to cook through and the cheese to melt into a creamy sauce.
- Finish with Spinach and Cheese: Add the baby spinach and grated Parmesan cheese to the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine and allow the spinach to wilt slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then serve hot for a delicious, creamy casserole.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen cheese tortellini but ensure frozen tortellini is thawed or adjust cook time accordingly.
- For a spicier kick, increase the red chili flakes to taste.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, use less chicken broth or cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes to reduce liquid.
- Adding extra veggies such as mushrooms or bell peppers can increase the nutrient content and flavor variety.
