Cooking pasta directly in the slow cooker can result in a starchy finished product, making the sauce too thick. To avoid this, suggest boiling the pasta separately in water to pour off excess starch before tossing it together with the sauce. This method ensures a smoother texture, enhancing the overall recipe without compromising flavor.
There’s something special about gathering the family around the table for a warm, cheesy dish that feels like home. This easy recipe takes a traditional favorite spaghetti and gives it a flavorful twist with chicken in a slow cooker. Perfect for busy weeknights, this crockpot version makes dinner effortless. Just throw the ingredients together, press the button, and let it cook for a few hours until everything blends into gooey, juicy perfection.
This ultimate comfort meal is an adapted take on the classic pasta recipe, combining marinara, cream cheese, and tender shredded chicken for the tastiest bites. Serve it with a side of green beans, baked broccoli, or a fresh salad to improve the balance of flavors. If you’re looking for other popular comfort foods, you might also want to know how to cook already smoked turkey legs, a great alternative that pairs well with this dish. Whether you’re a fan of southwestern or original styles, this crock pot meal works beautifully with different spice levels. Once you shred the chicken and toss it with the noodles, you’ll be impressed by how quickly it all comes together. One bite, and it’s clear why this remains a weeknight favorite!
Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti
If you’re looking for a meal that’s both easy and delicious, this crockpot chicken spaghetti recipe is the perfect choice. It’s a tasty and flavorful option that will definitely please the whole family. With just a ton of chicken, Rotel, and cream cheese, this dish really kicks up the flavor, creating a creamy and satisfying meal. The slow cooker does most of the work, leaving you with a one pot meal that cuts down on clean up and makes cooking stress-free. You won’t be worrying about extra pans or dishes to wash, which is a bonus for busy moms.
This dish is the perfect recipe for those days when you want something simple and filling. Whether you’re preparing it for a pasta bar or to serve many people at once, it’s a great recipe that everyone will love. The hearty sauce combined with yummy spaghetti and tender chicken makes this a comforting meal that’s also high in protein. It’s ideal for meal prep and will keep you full until your next meal. With minimal effort, you’ll have a super delicious dinner that’s ready in no time, and everyone is sure to agree that it’s the best dinner option.
Can you Cook Pasta in the Slow Cooker?
Yes, pasta can be cooked in the slow cooker, but for this Ultimate Easy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti Recipe, I prefer to cook the noodles in a separate pot. This method allows the pasta to cook more thoroughly, especially when using a broth-based recipe, ensuring it doesn’t become too soft. After cooking the pasta to al dente, I stir it into the slow cooker along with the other ingredients, creating a delicious and comfort food meal. This ensures the chicken and creamier base are perfectly combined. If you prefer, you can use an instant pot instead for a quicker process.
What’s in Slow Cooker Chicken Spaghetti?
This Slow Cooker Chicken Spaghetti is filled with delicious, simple ingredients. Chicken, preferably boneless skinless breasts, is cut into bite-sized pieces and combined with marinara sauce, adding that rich, savory flavor. To give it extra creaminess, we stir in some cream cheese and shredded mozzarella. The chicken broth helps tenderize the chicken and creates a great base. You’ll also add garlic and diced onions to infuse an aromatic flavor, while Italian seasoning gives it a nice herbiness. Don’t forget the spaghetti! You’ll cook it according to package instructions and mix it with the chicken marinara sauce for a perfect meal.
Can I Cook the Dry Pasta in the Crockpot?
I highly discourage cooking pasta directly in the slow cooker because it yields a starchy finished product that can affect the sauce. When cooking, starch is released, making the dish too thick. I suggest boiling the pasta in water first so you can pour off the excess starch, then mix everything together for the best texture. I’ve found that following this method keeps the recipe smooth and prevents the sauce from turning too gummy while tossing the ingredients. If you’re looking for a creamy yet balanced dish, you might also enjoy the Healthy take out style velvet chicken easy recipe, which has a rich texture without the extra starch.
Ingredients
This Ultimate Easy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti Recipe requires a few simple ingredients that you can easily pick up from the grocery store this week. It’s perfect for a quick meal and can be made without any hassle. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Spaghetti
- Shredded cheese (I recommend using Colby Jack or Cheddar cheese for a rich flavor)
- Mozzarella cheese
- Cream of chicken soup (or use cream of mushrooms soup if you prefer)
- Non-fat cream of chicken soup for a lighter option
- Rotel (with diced tomatoes and green chiles)
- Onion and garlic (freshly minced or in powdered form)
- Italian seasoning and paprika to add some flavor
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A little sour cream to bring it all together
- Neufchatel cheese (or substitute with cream cheese)
- Parsley and onion powder for added taste
How to Make Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti
Making this Ultimate Easy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti is simple and takes very little effort, but the result is delicious. Follow these steps to create a comforting family meal with minimal prep!
Step 1: Start by spraying your crockpot with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Next, place 1 pound of chicken breasts into the cold crockpot. Add diced tomatoes, green chilis, and Rotel, along with cream of chicken soup and cream of mushroom soup. For a little extra flavor, sprinkle in paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix the ingredients well, and cover the pot. Set the crockpot to high for 3-4 hours or low for 4-6 hours until the chicken is fully cooked (around 165 degrees with a meat thermometer).
Step 2: Once the chicken is done, carefully remove it from the crockpot and either shred or cut into cubes depending on your preference. Add the chicken back to the crockpot, then stir in sour cream, cream cheese, and shredded Colby jack cheese (or cheddar cheese). Stir well until the cheese is melted and everything is nicely combined. Cook on low for about 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Step 3: While the chicken mixture is finishing, bring a pot of water to a boil to cook your spaghetti. Follow the package directions for cooking until the spaghetti is al dente. Once cooked, drain the noodles and add them to the crockpot mixture. Stir everything together.
Step 4: Finally, serve your chicken spaghetti and top with parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick. Enjoy this easy, comforting meal with your family!
Serve Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti
Once your chicken spaghetti is ready, it’s time to enjoy a delicious meal! For a simple yet satisfying plate:
- Top it with a sprinkle of dried parsley for extra flavor.
- Pair it with a salad loaded with green vegetables or a side of roasted broccoli and beans for a nutritious touch.
- Add some homemade dinner rolls or grab fresh bread from the bakery to dip into the rich sauce—you’ll love getting every last bit!
- Need something quick? Steam some veggies in the microwave in just a few minutes.
- This meal goes well with all your favorite sides, making it an easy and yummy choice for dinner.
- If you want to mix things up, try different combinations like frozen mixed veggies or a comforting dish of warm bread.
However you serve it, this crockpot meal is sure to be a family favorite!
Tips for Crock Pot Chicken Spaghetti:
When making your Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti, it’s important to keep a few tips in mind to ensure your dish turns out perfect every time. First, shred your chicken using a mixer for a quick and easy process. If you’re short on time, a hand mixer can be your best friend in getting the chicken shredded in minutes.
For a creamier texture, consider using a block of colby cheese instead of pre-shredded cheese. It melts better and gives your spaghetti a smoother finish. You can also swap in mushroom or cream of chicken soup if you prefer a different base for your sauce. Don’t forget to add a little spice with red pepper flakes for an extra kick!
To make this meal even easier, cook your noodles ahead of time, like the night before. This way, you just have to add them into the crockpot on cooking day. If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for an easy second meal later in the week.
For a complete meal, serve your crockpot chicken spaghetti with some garlic bread and a fresh salad. This will make a hearty and satisfying dish, perfect for any night of the week.
Build Points:
- Shred chicken with a mixer for easy preparation.
- Use a block of colby cheese for a smoother, creamier texture.
- Add red pepper flakes for a touch of spice.
- Cook noodles in advance to save time.
- Serve with garlic bread and a salad for a complete meal.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for later.
Can I use rotisserie chicken or canned chicken?
You can certainly use rotisserie chicken or canned chicken in this recipe, but there are a few things to consider. If you go with rotisserie chicken, keep in mind that it’s often seasoned, which could affect the overall flavor of your cheesy chicken spaghetti. When adding it, wait about 30 minutes before cooking your pasta to avoid overcooking the chicken.
This way, the chicken will have enough time to heat through without becoming dry. If you opt for canned chicken, it may become mushy and is usually salt-soaked, which might not be the best for the recipe. While I don’t give the canned chicken my biggest stamp of approval, it’s a good option in a bind. Rotel and Velveeta cheese will help balance the flavor, but I always suggest fresh cooked chicken for the best result.
Can I put frozen chicken in the slow cooker?
I don’t recommend putting frozen chicken in the slow cooker because it takes too long to reach a safe temperature, keeping the meat in the danger zone (between 40°F and 140°F) for too long, which can lead to bacteria growth and food-borne illness. To minimize risk, it’s best to thaw boneless, skinless breasts in the fridge the night before or use the USDA-approved method for faster thawing.
If you must use frozen chicken, expect extra cook time, and always use a thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F for it to be safely edible. While some guidelines allow it, I suggest following best practices to avoid any concerns and guarantee a perfect recipe every time.
Cheesy Chicken Crock Pot Spaghetti Variations:
There are several ways you can enhance your Ultimate Easy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti Recipe to suit your taste and dietary preferences. Here are some variations you might want to try:
Low Carb Option: Replace the spaghetti with cauliflower rice or a low-carb pasta like linguine or penne. You can also use rotel or diced tomatoes with green chilis for a burst of flavor without the carbs. This swap makes the dish healthier while still delivering a creamy, cheesy taste.
Creamier Flavor: Want to make your dish extra creamy? Use cream of chicken, cream of celery, or cream of mushrooms in place of chicken broth. You can also add some cream for that rich, velvety texture. For an even cheesier result, incorporate some velveeta cheese into the mix.
Veggie Boost: Add extra vegetables to make your meal healthier and more colorful. You can throw in bell peppers, carrots, onions, or broccoli. These additions provide crunch, flavor, and a healthy touch to your spaghetti.
Protein Swap: If you don’t have chicken breasts on hand, feel free to use chicken thighs, chicken tenders, or even leftover rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation. The chicken will still be tender and flavorful when cooked in the crockpot.
Spicy Kick: For a spicier version, try swapping the marinara sauce with arrabbiata sauce. This will give your cheesy chicken spaghetti a zesty kick and enhance the overall flavor.
How to Store Leftovers:
To store your leftovers, place them in an air tight container and refrigerate. They’ll stay good for up to 4 days. When ready to eat, reheat in the microwave in 30 second intervals until heated.
Can you Freeze this?
Yes, you can freeze your chicken spaghetti either cooked or uncooked. To store uncooked chicken spaghetti, place the ingredients (excluding the noodles) in a freezer bag or a freezer safe container, and then place it in the freezer. When you’re ready to cook, follow the recipe card for instructions. If you’ve already cooked the chicken spaghetti, you can store the mixture in individual containers in the freezer. It will stay good for up to 3 months when stored properly.
Substitutions
When making this easy crockpot chicken spaghetti, you can make some simple substitutions to match your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are a few ideas:
- Chicken: While I like using boneless chicken breasts, you can easily switch it up by using chicken thighs for a slightly richer flavor. If you prefer, rotisserie chicken also works great and saves time.
- Pasta: If you want to change things up, try different types of pasta. Spaghetti is the classic choice, but you could use angel hair, fettuccine, rigatoni, or even macaroni. If you need a low-carb option, consider lentil or chickpea pasta. Both are great alternatives for those who are lactose intolerant or dairy-free.
- Cheese: I use mozzarella cheese in this recipe, but you can also opt for pepper jack, Monterey jack, or even a mix of cheddar and white cheddar. For a creamier texture, you can blend Neufchatel cheese or a cream of chicken soup to replace regular cream cheese. You could also go for dairy-free cheese if you’re allergic to dairy.
- Veggies: Add some extra veggies to the crockpot to enhance the flavor and nutrition. Bell peppers, whether green, red, or yellow, can be diced and added. You can also throw in onion, shallots, or green chiles for an extra zing. If you prefer spicier options, use fresh jalapenos or pickled ones.
- Soup: If you want a different twist on the creamy texture, you can swap the cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom or cream of celery. Each will bring a unique flavor to your dish!
Notes and Tips
When making this cheesy chicken spaghetti, I recommend cooking it on the LOW setting for 4-5 hours in the Crockpot, as instructed. However, if you’re short on time, you can speed things up by switching to HIGH for 2-3 hours. If you don’t have spaghetti noodles, any type of pasta will work just as well, and it will still taste amazing with the marinara sauce!
Ultimate Easy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti Recipe!
Description
Make dinnertime easy with this creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti! Tender chicken, savory cream soups, and melted mozzarella create the perfect comfort meal. Ready in hours, loved by all!
Ingredients
Instructions
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Prepare the Crockpot
Spray the inside of your crockpot with cooking spray to prevent sticking
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Add Chicken and Soups
Place 1 lb of boneless skinless chicken breasts into the crockpot. Add 1 can of cream of chicken soup, 1 can of cream of mushroom soup, and 1 can of Rotel (diced tomatoes and green chilies).
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Season the Mixture
Stir in 1 tsp each of garlic (minced), onion powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together until the chicken is coated.
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Cook the Chicken
Cover the crockpot and cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 4-6 hours until the chicken is fully cooked (165°F internal temperature). You should be able to shred it easily with a fork.
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Shred the Chicken
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it using two forks or a hand mixer for quick shredding.
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Add Cheese and Sour Cream
Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot. Add 1 cup each of shredded mozzarella cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir in ½ cup of sour cream for extra creaminess. Let the cheese melt and everything blend together for 20-30 minutes on low.
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Cook the Spaghetti
While the chicken and sauce are finishing, cook the spaghetti in a separate pot according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
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Combine Pasta and Sauce
Once the chicken mixture is ready, add the cooked spaghetti into the crockpot and toss everything together until the noodles are well-coated with the cheesy, creamy sauce.
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Serve and Enjoy
Serve the chicken spaghetti hot! Top with grated parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes for a little extra flavor. Pair it with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 550kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 22g34%
- Saturated Fat 9g45%
- Cholesterol 85mg29%
- Sodium 920mg39%
- Potassium 570mg17%
- Total Carbohydrate 45g15%
- Sugars 6g
- Protein 40g80%
- Vitamin A 15 IU
- Vitamin C 10 mg
- Calcium 25 mg
- Iron 12 mg
* Note: These values are approximations and may vary depending on the exact brands and ingredients used.
Note
This Ultimate Crock Pot Chicken Spaghetti is the perfect comfort meal for busy nights. Tender chicken, creamy sauce, and cheesy goodness come together effortlessly in the slow cooker. With minimal prep and a flavor-packed finish, it's an easy, satisfying dinner the whole family will love. Customize with your favorite spices or veggies for a personal twist!
