Slow Cooker Marry Me Ravioli
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Serves: 6
INGREDIENTS
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 8 ounces cream cheese, cubed
- 25 ounces frozen cheese ravioli
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
INSTRUCTIONS
- Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. Sprinkle the salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder evenly over the chicken.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and red pepper flakes.
- Add the cubed cream cheese over the top of the chicken and sauce.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 3 to 4 hours, or until the chicken is tender and shreds easily with a fork.
- Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir it into the sauce.
- Add the frozen cheese ravioli and shredded Parmesan cheese. Gently fold everything together until the ravioli are evenly coated in the sauce.
- Cover and cook for an additional 30 to 40 minutes, or until the ravioli are tender and heated through. Give everything a final gentle stir, then let it rest for a few minutes to allow the sauce to thicken.
Substitutions
- Chicken Thighs: Boneless skinless chicken thighs can replace chicken breasts for a slightly richer flavor.
- Half and Half: Half and half can be used instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
- Tortellini: Cheese tortellini works just as well as ravioli in this recipe.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella can replace Parmesan for a milder finish.
Variations
- Add Spinach: Stir in fresh spinach at the end for a pop of color and extra greens.
- Make It Spicier: Increase the red pepper flakes for more heat if your crew likes bold flavors.
- Cheesy Finish: Sprinkle extra mozzarella on top and let it melt before serving for an extra cozy touch.
Tips and Tricks
- Add Pasta at the End: Ravioli cooks quickly and adding it late keeps it from turning mushy.
- Stir Gently: Gentle stirring keeps the ravioli intact and looking pretty on the plate.
- Let It Rest: The sauce thickens as it sits, so a short rest before serving makes a big difference.
- Season to Taste: Give the sauce a taste before serving and adjust salt if needed.
- Use a Liner for Easy Cleanup: Slow cooker liners make cleanup quick and painless.
Serving Ideas
- Simple Green Salad: A crisp salad balances the richness of the sauce.
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for scooping up extra sauce from the bowl.
- Roasted Vegetables: Adds a little color and texture to the plate.
- Steamed Broccoli: A simple side that pairs well with creamy pasta.
- Crusty Bread: Great for soaking up every last drop of sauce.
Storage and Make Ahead Tips
- Refrigerator Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
- Gentle Reheating: Reheat slowly on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of broth or cream.
- Make Ahead Sauce: You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead and add the ravioli just before serving.
- Portion for Lunches: Leftovers pack well for easy next day lunches.