Slow Cooker Marry Me Tortellini

Slow Cooker Marry Me Tortellini is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with rich flavors, making it perfect for date nights or family dinners. This easy-to-make pasta dinner features a luscious sun-dried tomato cream sauce, infused with fresh basil. It’s versatile enough to impress your loved ones on any occasion, ensuring everyone will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: With just a few ingredients and a slow cooker, you can create a gourmet meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Flavor Explosion: The creamy sauce paired with sun-dried tomatoes and herbs creates a taste sensation that will leave your taste buds dancing.
• Perfect for Any Gathering: Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a romantic evening, this dish fits seamlessly into any occasion.
• Healthier Option: Using chicken and fresh ingredients makes this dish a healthier choice compared to traditional creamy pasta recipes.
• One-Pot Wonder: Cook everything in the slow cooker, minimizing cleanup time while maximizing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To make this mouthwatering Slow Cooker Marry Me Tortellini, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that simplify the cooking process.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Why These Tools Matter

• Slow cooker: This tool allows for hands-off cooking, letting flavors meld together beautifully over time.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures safe and efficient chopping of vegetables and meat.
• Whisk: Perfect for mixing cornstarch into chicken stock smoothly without lumps.

Ingredients

This slow cooker version of Marry Me Tortellini is an easy to make pasta dinner smothered in a decadent sun-dried tomato cream sauce filled with herbaceous basil and tender chicken. It’s sure to make your love interest swoon!

For the Chicken and Sauce

• 1.5 lbs chicken breasts
• 18 oz tortellini, fresh or refrigerated (if frozen, thaw first)
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning (plus more for seasoning chicken)
• 1 teaspoon cajun seasoning (plus more for seasoning chicken)
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 medium onion, diced
• 1-8.5 oz jar sun-dried tomatoes julienne
• 2 cups chicken stock
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (whisked into the chicken stock)
• 1 cup heavy cream

For Topping

• 2/3 cup freshly grated parmesan
• 1 oz fresh basil leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Cooking

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

How to Make Slow Cooker Marry Me Tortellini

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. Season liberally with both cajun seasoning and Italian seasoning to enhance flavor.

Step 2: Assemble Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

Place the seasoned chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add in minced garlic, diced onions, sun-dried tomatoes, tortellini, and pour in the chicken stock mixed with cornstarch.

Step 3: Cook on Low

Cover and cook on low for about 3 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts. Stir in heavy cream until well combined. Shred the chicken using two forks and return it to the slow cooker.

Step 5: Add Final Touches

Stir in freshly grated parmesan cheese until melted. Finish by adding salt, pepper, and fresh basil leaves for added flavor before serving.

Enjoy this delightful Slow Cooker Marry Me Tortellini as a comforting meal any day of the week!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Marry Me Tortellini

Serving Slow Cooker Marry Me Tortellini is easy and fun. This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and garnishes to elevate your dining experience. Here are some ideas to make your meal even more delightful.

Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A light mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers, dressed with a simple vinaigrette.
• Caprese Salad: Layers of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a refreshing contrast.

Garlic Bread

• Classic Garlic Bread: Toasted bread topped with a mixture of butter, garlic, and parsley. Perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce.
• Cheesy Garlic Bread: Add cheese to your garlic bread for extra flavor and meltiness.

Grilled Vegetables

• Seasoned Grilled Zucchini: Slice zucchini, season with salt and pepper, then grill until tender for a smoky taste.
• Roasted Bell Peppers: Roasted peppers bring a sweet and savory flavor that complements the tortellini beautifully.

Wine Pairing

• Sparkling Water: A refreshing non-alcoholic option that cleanses the palate and enhances flavors.
• Herbal Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea can be a soothing complement to this hearty dish.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Marry Me Tortellini

To achieve the best results with Slow Cooker Marry Me Tortellini, follow these helpful tips. They will help enhance flavors and ensure perfect texture every time.

• Bold Seasoning: Ensure the chicken is well-seasoned before cooking. This step infuses flavor throughout the dish.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh tortellini and herbs whenever possible for the best taste and texture.
• Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick after cooking, whisk in a little extra chicken stock or cream to reach your desired consistency.
• Mix Gently: When combining ingredients after cooking, stir gently to prevent breaking apart the tortellini.
• Garnish Generously: Top with fresh basil leaves just before serving for added freshness and an appealing presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Marry Me Tortellini

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Marry Me Tortellini can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing topped with croutons.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition without overpowering the main dish.
3. Baked Parmesan Asparagus: Roasted asparagus drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with parmesan cheese for a savory crunch.
4. Quinoa Salad: A hearty quinoa salad mixed with vegetables makes for a healthy accompaniment rich in protein.
5. Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice cooked with herbs offers a subtle flavor that complements the creamy sauce well.
6. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory mushrooms filled with cheese and herbs provide an elegant touch to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Marry Me Tortellini, it’s important to steer clear of common pitfalls that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Ensure you monitor the cooking time carefully. Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Seasoning is key for flavor. Always season your chicken with a good amount of Italian and Cajun seasoning before cooking to enhance the overall taste.
• Using Frozen Tortellini Without Thawing: If using frozen tortellini, remember to thaw them first. Cooking them from frozen might result in uneven cooking and texture.
• Skipping the Cornstarch Mixture: This step thickens your sauce. Make sure to whisk the cornstarch into the chicken stock before adding it to the slow cooker.
• Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil and garlic add depth to the dish. Don’t substitute dried herbs for fresh ones unless necessary, as this will affect the dish’s freshness.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Slow Cooker Marry Me Tortellini in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Slow Cooker Marry Me Tortellini

• For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers.
• Consume within 1-2 months for best flavor and quality.

Reheating Slow Cooker Marry Me Tortellini

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the dish with foil. Heat until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Slow Cooker Marry Me Tortellini?

Slow Cooker Marry Me Tortellini is a delicious pasta dish featuring tortellini cooked in a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce with tender chicken.

How can I customize Slow Cooker Marry Me Tortellini?

You can customize this dish by adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers or choosing different tortellini fillings such as cheese or spinach.

Can I make Slow Cooker Marry Me Tortellini vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace the chicken with mushrooms or extra vegetables and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock for a vegetarian version.

How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Marry Me Tortellini?

The total cooking time is approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes on low heat, making it perfect for busy days.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Marry Me Tortellini recipe combines rich flavors and easy preparation, making it an ideal choice for a cozy dinner. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or side dishes to make it truly your own.