Easy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
If you are craving a comforting, hearty meal that practically makes itself, then this Easy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti Recipe is going to become your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine tender, shredded chicken simmered with flavorful tomatoes and cozy spices, then mingled with perfectly cooked spaghetti and an indulgent blend of creamy cheeses. Every forkful is like a warm hug, bringing together richness, subtle heat, and homey goodness in one spectacular dish. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a laid-back weekend dinner, this recipe promises simplicity without sacrificing that homemade taste we all adore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet wonderfully impactful, each adding their own magic to the final dish. From the tender chicken breasts that form the protein base to the creamy cheeses that create luscious sauce, every element plays a critical role to deliver taste, texture, and a splash of vibrant color.
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein that becomes tender and shreddable after slow cooking.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: Adds rich, savory creaminess that thickens the sauce perfectly.
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies (undrained): Brings a delightful subtle kick and bursts of flavor with tomatoes and mild heat.
- 1/2 cup finely diced yellow onion: Adds a sweet and aromatic base to deepen the flavor profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: For that quintessential savory punch that ties the dish together.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Reinforces onion flavor and adds a touch more complexity.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Helps balance and elevate all other flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: A hint of spice that complements the creamy and cheesy notes.
- 8 ounces uncooked spaghetti, broken in half: Pasta that soaks up all those saucy, cheesy flavors.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Needed to cook the pasta in the crockpot and add savory depth.
- 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into creamy, cheesy goodness that envelops every bite.
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened and cubed): Adds luscious creaminess and smooth texture to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps sauté onions if you choose, or just adds richness to the dish.
How to Make Easy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Layer and Season Your Chicken
Begin by placing the chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot, which will serve as the flavorful foundation. Top them with cream of chicken soup, undrained Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, finely diced onion, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This seasoning layer creates a cozy, aromatic bed that will infuse the chicken with wonderful taste as it slowly cooks.
Step 2: Slow Cook Until Tender
Cover your crockpot and cook everything on low for 4 to 5 hours. This slow and gentle cooking method allows the chicken to become incredibly tender and juicy, soaking up all those delicious flavors. Once done, remove the chicken breasts and shred them with two forks. Returning the shredded chicken to the crockpot ensures the meat becomes one with the luscious sauce.
Step 3: Add Pasta and Broth
Break your spaghetti noodles in half — this little trick helps them cook evenly inside the crockpot and makes serving easier. Add the broken pasta along with the chicken broth to the crockpot. Stir everything well so the noodles are evenly coated and submerged, then cover and cook on high for about 20 to 30 minutes. Don’t forget to stir halfway through to prevent sticking and ensure the pasta cooks perfectly tender.
Step 4: Stir in Cream Cheese and Cheddar
Once the spaghetti is tender, it’s time to swirl in the softened cream cheese cubes and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir patiently until the cheeses melt into a creamy, velvety sauce that ties every bit of this dish together. Let the mixture rest for about 5 minutes before serving to allow it to thicken to that irresistible, luscious consistency.
How to Serve Easy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
Adding simple fresh garnishes can bring a fresh contrast and vibrancy to your meal. Try sprinkling some chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of green and herbal brightness. A dusting of extra shredded cheddar cheese or a few thinly sliced green onions also works wonderfully to add texture and extra flavor.
Side Dishes
This chicken spaghetti shines on its own, but pairing it with crisp garden salads, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread makes the meal even more satisfying. A side of steamed broccoli or a tangy coleslaw offers a fresh crunch that balances the creamy richness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress your guests or add some fun to the table? Serve the chicken spaghetti in individual ramekins topped with a sprinkle of paprika or red pepper flakes for a gentle heat boost. You can also spoon it into hollowed-out bell peppers, letting the cheesy pasta spill over the edges for a charming twist everyone will remember.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Easy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it even tastier when reheated. Just make sure to cool it before refrigerating to preserve freshness.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy days. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results, preserving the creamy texture and flavors.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftovers on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. You might want to add a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much. Reheating slowly keeps the cheese from separating and keeps the dish creamy and comforting.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta besides spaghetti?
Absolutely! While spaghetti works great, you can swap it for penne, rotini, or even elbow macaroni. Just adjust the cook time accordingly to make sure the pasta is perfectly tender without overcooking.
Is it possible to make this recipe spicy?
Yes! The Rotel tomatoes bring a mild heat, but you can add more diced green chilies, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or even some chopped jalapeños for an extra kick that will brighten up the dish.
Can I substitute the cream of chicken soup with something else?
If you prefer, cream of mushroom soup works well and adds a deeper, earthier flavor. For a dairy-free or healthier alternative, you can use a homemade white sauce or a mix of Greek yogurt and broth.
How do I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, simply replace the chicken with beans or a hearty vegetable mix, and use vegetable broth and a cream of mushroom or veggie soup. The cheesy sauce still keeps the dish rich and satisfying.
Can I add veggies to this dish?
Definitely! Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or frozen peas are all great options to sneak in extra nutrition and add layers of texture and flavor. Just add them in during the slow cooking phase so they soften appropriately.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Easy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti Recipe, it’s hard to imagine a weeknight dinner that’s simpler, tastier, and more comforting. The effortless slow cooker method delivers a cozy, cheesy, and satisfying meal that everyone at the table will love. Give it a go—you might just discover your next favorite go-to recipe that fills the house with warmth and yummy aromas every time.
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Easy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
- Total Time: 5 hours 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
This Easy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti is a creamy, comforting one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken breasts slow-cooked with savory cream of chicken soup, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and aromatic spices are combined with tender spaghetti noodles and cheddar cheese for a rich, flavorful dish the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Chicken and Base Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies (undrained)
- 1/2 cup finely diced yellow onion
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Pasta and Cheese
- 8 ounces uncooked spaghetti, broken in half
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened and cubed)
Instructions
- Prepare the slow cooker base: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot. Add the cream of chicken soup, Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies (including the juice), finely diced yellow onion, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper on top of the chicken. Cover the crockpot with the lid.
- Slow cook the chicken: Cook on low heat for 4 to 5 hours until the chicken is fully cooked through and tender enough to shred easily.
- Shred the chicken: Carefully remove the cooked chicken breasts from the crockpot and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken back into the crockpot and stir to combine with the cooking liquid and vegetables.
- Add spaghetti and broth: Break the uncooked spaghetti noodles in half and add them to the crockpot along with 1 cup of chicken broth. Stir well to ensure the noodles are evenly distributed and coated with the sauce.
- Cook the pasta: Cover the crockpot and increase the heat to high. Cook for 20 to 30 minutes, stirring once halfway through the cooking time, until the spaghetti is tender but not overcooked.
- Add cheeses and combine: Stir in the softened and cubed cream cheese along with the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix thoroughly until the cheeses are melted, creamy, and fully incorporated into the pasta and chicken mixture.
- Let it thicken: Allow the dish to sit covered for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting time lets the sauce thicken slightly for the perfect creamy texture.
Notes
- For extra creaminess, add a splash of milk or a little more cream cheese when stirring in the cheeses.
- You may substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor profile.
- Add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms at the beginning with the onions for additional vegetables and flavor.
- Make sure to stir the pasta during cooking to prevent sticking and uneven cooking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 hours 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
