Creamy Spinach Tortellini Chicken Casserole Recipe

There’s nothing like gathering around the table with a bubbling, cheesy casserole, and this Creamy Spinach Tortellini Chicken Casserole is destined to become the star of your next family dinner! With tender shredded chicken, pillowy cheese tortellini, velvety marinara cream sauce, and a healthy helping of spinach, it’s the sort of comforting, flavor-packed meal everyone races to the kitchen for—even the picky eaters.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Creamy Spinach Tortellini Chicken Casserole lies in its straightforward, everyday ingredients. Each one brings its own special touch, from luscious cheese to hearty chicken and a fragrant blend of Italian spices, making every forkful swoon-worthy!

• Olive oil spray: Helps keep everything from sticking to your slow cooker and adds a little extra richness.
• Chicken breast: Lean, tender, and ready to soak up all the flavors—shredded chicken gives amazing texture to the dish.
• Marinara sauce: The tangy tomato base that forms the heart of the creamy sauce.
• Garlic powder: Infuses aromatic depth without chopping—perfect for easy prep.
• Onion granules: Gives gentle, savory undertones and rounds out the flavor.
• Italian seasoning mix: A handy blend that brings all the classic herb notes in one sprinkle.
• Paprika: Adds a hint of warmth and that beautiful, subtle red hue.
• Red chili flakes: For a little kick—adjust more or less depending how you like it.
• Chicken broth: Keeps everything moist while building up deep savory notes in the sauce.
• Cheese tortellini: Pillowy, cheesy, pasta goodness—find it in the refrigerated or frozen section.
• Mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully, adding gooey cheesiness to every bite.
• Heavy cream: Makes the sauce luscious and ultra-creamy—just what you want in a casserole!
• Baby spinach: Wilts into the sauce, giving a pop of color and a veggie boost without overpowering the flavors.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds savory-salty depth and makes the casserole feel extra indulgent.

Variations

One of the best things about Creamy Spinach Tortellini Chicken Casserole? It’s endlessly customizable! Whether you’re accommodating dietary needs or exploring new flavors, you can swap, add, or tweak so this recipe fits your table perfectly.

• Swap the protein: Try shredded rotisserie chicken, Italian sausage, or even leftover turkey for a fun twist.
• Go vegetarian: Skip the chicken and double up on the tortellini—use veggie broth and toss in your favorite roasted vegetables.
• Add different greens: Sub in chopped kale or arugula for the spinach, or mix in frozen peas for color and sweetness.
• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free cheese tortellini and double-check your marinara and broth.
• Level up the sauce: Stir in sun-dried tomatoes or a spoonful of pesto for a punch of extra flavor.

How to Make Creamy Spinach Tortellini Chicken Casserole

Step 1: Prep Your Slow Cooker and Chicken

Start by giving your slow cooker a generous spritz with olive oil spray. This step guarantees nothing sticks and makes cleanup a breeze. Arrange your chicken breasts in a single cozy layer at the bottom—they’ll cook evenly and soak up all those dreamy flavors coming next.

Step 2: Add Sauce and Seasonings

Pour in your marinara sauce, then scatter over the garlic powder, onion granules, Italian seasoning, paprika, red chili flakes, and a splash of chicken broth. Give everything a gentle swirl so the chicken is tucked under the sauce and spices. Now just pop the lid on, set to LOW, and let the slow cooker do the magic for 4 hours.

Step 3: Shred and Return the Chicken

Once the chicken is fall-apart tender, carefully remove it and shred with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker—this step lets the flavors really mingle and keeps everything juicy. It’s okay if the sauce looks a little thin at this point; it will thicken up soon!

Step 4: Add Tortellini, Cheese, and Cream

Add your cheese tortellini, mozzarella, and heavy cream right into the slow cooker with the chicken and sauce. Stir everything gently so the tortellini are nestled in and submerged in the sauce. Cover again and cook on LOW another 30 minutes, until the tortellini are plump and tender.

Step 5: Wilt in Spinach and Finish

Finally, stir in the fresh baby spinach and let everything cook for 10 more minutes—just until the greens are silky and wilted. Give the casserole one last swirl, add the Parmesan, and taste to see if you want a pinch more seasoning. Your Creamy Spinach Tortellini Chicken Casserole is officially ready to shine!

How to Serve Creamy Spinach Tortellini Chicken Casserole

Garnishes

For a pretty finish and extra pop of flavor, shower the top with freshly grated parmesan or shaved pecorino. A sprinkle of chopped fresh basil or parsley not only adds vibrant color, but also a fresh herbal note that pairs beautifully with the creamy, cheesy sauce.

Side Dishes

This hearty casserole shines next to a simple arugula or mixed greens salad, dressed in a light vinaigrette. Warm, crusty garlic bread or toasty ciabatta is also a must for scooping up every last drop of that dreamy creamy-tomato sauce!

Creative Ways to Present

Make it party-ready by scooping Creamy Spinach Tortellini Chicken Casserole into individually sized ramekins, or serve it in your favorite large gratin dish for a true family-style statement. For a festive touch, top each serving with a swirl of pesto or a scattering of tiny mozzarella balls.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of this casserole are seriously coveted! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The pasta may soak up a bit more sauce as it sits, but the flavors only get better with time.

Freezing

This casserole is freezable—with a small trick! Prep and cool the casserole, then package it in airtight freezer containers for up to 2 months. Note that the tortellini can soften a bit after thawing, so for the best texture, freeze before adding the tortellini and finish cooking just before serving.

Reheating

To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or extra cream to the casserole to loosen up the sauce, then warm it gently in the oven (covered) or in the microwave. Give it a good stir halfway through for even reheating and a silky finish.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a heartwarming dinner that’s completely fuss-free but feels downright special, this Creamy Spinach Tortellini Chicken Casserole is calling your name! Give it a try and watch how quickly it disappears—the joy around the table is guaranteed, and you just might find yourself making it again next week.

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