Ingredients

1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 cup diced onion

2 cloves garlic, minced

3 cups chicken broth

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

1 cup heavy cream (For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half.)

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

Salt, to taste

Black pepper, to taste

1 cup tortellini (fresh or frozen)

1 cup fresh spinach

Fresh basil, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the Crock Pot.

Step 2: Add the diced onions and minced garlic on top of the chicken.

Step 3: Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Stir gently to combine.

Step 4: Sprinkle Italian seasoning over the mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Cover the Crock Pot and cook on low for 6 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Step 6: Remove the chicken breasts from the pot and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the soup.

Step 7: Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until well combined.

Step 8: Add the tortellini and fresh spinach to the soup. Cook on high for an additional 30 minutes, or until the tortellini is heated through and the spinach is wilted.

Step 9: Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil if desired.

Tips & Variations

Substitute half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter soup without sacrificing creaminess.

Add crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle spicy kick.

Use store-bought rotisserie chicken for a quicker version—add it in step 6 without cooking initially.

Fresh tortellini cooks faster than frozen, so adjust cooking time accordingly.

Storage

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. The tortellini may absorb some broth over time, so add a splash of chicken broth or water when reheating if the soup becomes too thick. This soup is not recommended for freezing as the cream and spinach may separate or wilt.

FAQs

Can I make this soup without a Crock Pot?

Yes, you can make it on the stovetop by simmering the chicken, onions, garlic, broth, and tomatoes over low heat until the chicken is cooked and tender, about 45 minutes to 1 hour. Proceed with the remaining steps as directed.

Can I use other types of pasta instead of tortellini?

Absolutely. Small pasta shapes like mini shells, small rotini, or ditalini work well. Add them toward the end of cooking and adjust the cooking time based on the pasta package instructions.