Slow Cooker Marry Me Ravioli
Creamy, cozy, and loaded with bold flavor, this Slow Cooker Marry Me Ravioli is one of those easy comfort meals that feels special enough for date night but simple enough for a busy weeknight.
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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
- Step 1 Cook the Chicken Base - 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. Take a moment to gently rub the seasoning in so every bite gets flavor.
- Step 2 Add the Creamy Sauce Ingredients - Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Add the chopped sun dried tomatoes and red pepper flakes. Give the liquid a gentle stir so everything is evenly distributed around the chicken.
- Step 3 Add the Cream Cheese - Scatter the cubed cream cheese over the top of the chicken and sauce. Do not stir yet. It will melt down beautifully as it cooks.
- Step 4 Slow Cook Until Tender - Cover and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is tender and shreds easily with a fork. This is where the magic happens and your kitchen starts smelling like something special.
- Step 5 Shred and Return the Chicken - 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.
- Step 6 Add the Ravioli and Parmesan - Stir in the frozen cheese ravioli and shredded Parmesan cheese. Gently fold everything together so the ravioli are coated in that creamy sauce.
- Step 7 Finish Cooking the Ravioli - Cover and cook for another 30 to 40 minutes, until the ravioli are tender and heated through. Give it a final gentle stir and let it rest for a few minutes so the sauce can thicken.
Notes
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.
Private Notes
Servings: 6 servings
