Creamy Tortellini, Spinach, and Chicken Soup

Thick, rich, and hearty, this soup is the perfect comforting end to a cool day …

Ingredients: 

• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1/3 cup all purpose flour
• 1 Tbsp dried basil
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 Tbsp tomato paste
• 3 Tbsp olive oil
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 (14.5 oz) cans petite diced tomatoes
• 1 to 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 4 cups frozen cheese tortellini (or you can use fresh)
• 3 cups packed spinach (you can definitely add more than this if you want)
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream or 1 cup half and half

Instructions:

1. In a microwave-safe bowl add the onions, flour, basil, garlic, tomato paste and drizzle with olive oil. Microwave for 5 minutes, stirring every 90 seconds or so. 
2. Add broth, tomatoes, chicken, salt, and pepper a slow cooker. Stir.
3. Cover and cook on LOW for 4-6 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours (or until chicken is very tender).
4. Remove chicken from pot. Add in tortellini and spinach, Parmesan cheese and warmed cream (cream should be warmed because it may cause curdling if added in cold).
5. Shred chicken and add it back into the crockpot and ENJOY!