If there’s one dish that defines comfort in a bowl, it’s this Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Tortellini Soup with Garlic. It’s creamy, rich, packed with tender chicken, gooey cheese, and plump tortellini—all slow-cooked into a comforting hug of a soup. This isn't just one of those generic tortellini soup recipes; it’s a standout, perfect for chilly evenings or meal prepping for the week. Using simple ingredients, it transforms into a bowl that feels indulgent without losing the hearty, healthy vibes you want in a balanced meal. Whether you're a fan of crockpot recipes tortellini style, or you’re just looking for new tortellini soup crockpot ideas, this is your next go-to.
Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Tortellini Soup with Garlic
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 5 hours hrs
Total Time 5 hours hrs 15 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Italian
Servings 6 generous bowls
Crockpot/Slow Cooker A 6-quart crockpot is perfect for this recipe. If you're short on time, an instant pot on the slow cook setting works too. Want a stovetop version? Use a heavy-bottomed Dutch oven and simmer gently on low.
Chef’s knife and cutting board For prepping your vegetables and chicken.
Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula Ideal for stirring in the cream cheese and shredded cheese without scratching your pot.
Measuring cups and spoons Accuracy matters with cheese and seasoning.
- 1 ½ lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs (both work great, but thighs add extra richness)
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 14.5 oz can of diced tomatoes with basil, garlic, and oregano (Italian-style)
- 3 cups fresh cheese tortellini refrigerated or frozen; don’t use dried
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 medium yellow onion diced
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional, for a subtle heat
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 8 oz block of cream cheese, cut into cubes and softened
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup fresh spinach or kale roughly chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Start by chopping your onion, mincing your garlic, slicing your carrots, and dicing the chicken into bite-sized chunks if you’re not cooking them whole. (You can shred them later if left whole.)
Step 2: Load the Crockpot
In your crockpot, layer the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and chicken. Pour in the chicken broth and canned tomatoes (juice included). Sprinkle in the oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Give it all a good stir.
Step 3: Slow Cook
Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. If you used whole chicken breasts or thighs, remove them after cooking, shred using two forks, and return them to the crockpot.
Step 4: Add Creaminess
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the cream cheese cubes. Let them melt and stir occasionally until completely incorporated. This is where your soup begins its transformation into a creamy, cheesy dream.
Step 5: Toss in the Tortellini
Add your fresh or frozen cheese tortellini. If using fresh, cook for about 20 to 30 minutes on high. Frozen may take a little longer, up to 40 minutes. Be careful not to overcook—the tortellini should be tender but not mushy.
Step 6: Final Touches
Once the tortellini is cooked, stir in your shredded cheddar cheese and fresh spinach. Let it sit for about 5 minutes so the spinach wilts and the cheese melts fully into the soup.
Step 7: Serve It Up
Ladle your hot, cheesy chicken tortellini soup into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh basil or extra shredded cheese. Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast if you’re going all in.
Pairings
Bread
This soup begs for something to sop it up. A warm sourdough baguette, crusty Italian bread, or garlic knots all work beautifully. Want something lighter? Try toasted ciabatta slices rubbed with fresh garlic and a touch of olive oil.
Salad
Pair with a simple arugula and lemon vinaigrette salad to cut through the creaminess. Even a basic Caesar salad offers a nice salty crunch contrast.
Drink
Try a dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light red like Pinot Noir. For non-alcoholic options, a cold sparkling lemonade or iced green tea balances out the richness.
