Print

Slow Cooker Tortellini Casserole Recipe Easy Cheesy Chicken Pesto Meal

slow cooker tortellini casserole - featured image
Print Recipe

A cozy, easy slow cooker casserole combining tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and fresh basil pesto for a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb / 450 g)
  • 1 (14 oz / 400 g) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
  • 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream or half-and-half (use coconut cream for dairy-free)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 (9 oz / 250 g) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
  • 1 ½ cups (170 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup (120 g) basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions

  1. Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker.
  2. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice), chicken broth, heavy cream, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning.
  3. Sprinkle a pinch of salt and pepper over the top.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 3 to 3½ hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C).
  5. Carefully remove the chicken breasts and shred them with two forks on a plate.
  6. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker, stirring it into the sauce.
  7. Gently fold in the fresh tortellini, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
  8. Stir well so the cheese starts melting into the sauce and the tortellini is evenly coated.
  9. Cover and cook for an additional 20 to 30 minutes on low until the tortellini is tender but not mushy.
  10. Just before serving, stir in the basil pesto thoroughly.
  11. Dish out warm, cheesy portions into bowls or plates. Optionally, sprinkle extra Parmesan or fresh basil on top.

Notes

Do not add tortellini at the start to avoid mushiness; add it late in cooking. Use quality pesto for best flavor. If casserole is too thick after adding tortellini, add a splash of chicken broth. For extra gooeyness, sprinkle mozzarella on top and broil 2-3 minutes before serving. Leftovers keep well for 3 days refrigerated; add broth when reheating to maintain creaminess. Can be made dairy-free or gluten-free with substitutions.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker, tortellini casserole, cheesy chicken, pesto, comfort food, easy dinner, crockpot meal

Find it online: https://swooshspice.com/slow-cooker-tortellini-casserole-recipe-easy-cheesy-chicken-pesto-meal/