If you’ve ever wanted a meal that wraps you up in cozy comfort and bursts with cheesy, flavorful goodness, then this Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine tender chicken simmering in a luscious sauce with just the right kick from diced tomatoes with green chilies, all swimming alongside perfectly cooked spaghetti. This dish is not only incredibly easy to make but also packs a delightful combination of creamy textures and bold flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s exactly the kind of recipe that turns an ordinary day into something special without any fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create an irresistible dish. Each one not only adds its own unique flavor and texture but also ensures that the Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti Recipe stays true to its comforting roots.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein that cooks tender and juicy in the crockpot, soaking up all the flavors.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: Adds a rich, creamy base that gives this dish its luscious texture.
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies (undrained): Brings a little zing and a hint of spice, making every bite exciting.
- 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese (cubed): Melts into the sauce for that unbeatable creaminess we all love.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Keeps the sauce silky and adds depth without overpowering the dish.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: A simple, aromatic punch that enhances all the savory components.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Adds subtle sweetness and complexity to the sauce.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Balances flavor with a gentle kick of spice.
- 8 oz uncooked spaghetti: The pasta that soaks up that creamy sauce perfectly, providing satisfying bite.
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: The gooey cheese that takes this dish from delicious to downright irresistible.
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional): A fresh pop of color and brightness to finish off the plate.
How to Make Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crockpot Base
Start by placing your chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. This is where all the magic begins as the chicken slowly cooks to tender perfection. Next, add the cream of chicken soup, undrained Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, the cubed cream cheese, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Give everything a gentle stir if you like, but it’s perfectly fine to layer the ingredients as is. Pop the lid on and cook it low for 4 to 5 hours or high for 2 to 3 hours until the chicken is fully cooked and incredibly tender.
Step 2: Shred the Chicken
When the chicken is cooked through, carefully remove the breasts from the crockpot and shred them using two forks. Don’t worry about the sauce in there — it’s your flavor powerhouse! Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot, letting it mingle with the sauce to soak up every delicious bit.
Step 3: Add the Spaghetti
Break the uncooked spaghetti in half, which makes it easier to stir and better portioned for your crockpot. Stir the broken spaghetti into the crockpot, making sure it is well coated in the sauce. Cover the pot again and cook on high for another 20 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps prevent the pasta from sticking and ensures it cooks evenly to tender, al dente perfection.
Step 4: Melt in the Cheese
Once the spaghetti is tender, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over everything and stir until it melts into that creamy sauce. This final cheesy step is what brings the whole Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti Recipe together into a luscious, satisfying meal that’s truly irresistible.
How to Serve Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
For a fresh and colorful finish, sprinkle chopped parsley over each serving. The green flecks not only look inviting but add a subtle freshness that complements the richness of the dish beautifully. If you like a little more heat, you can also add a pinch of crushed red pepper or a squirt of lime for an extra zing.
Side Dishes
This creamy, hearty pasta pairs wonderfully with crisp, refreshing sides. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus balances the richness perfectly. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls also make excellent companions to soak up any leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests or make family dinners more fun? Serve the creamy crockpot chicken spaghetti in cute individual ramekins garnished with parsley and a few extra cheese shreds on top. You could also layer it in a casserole dish, sprinkle some parmesan and breadcrumbs, then bake briefly for a crispy, golden crust that adds texture contrast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have some leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce tends to thicken as it cools, so you might want to add a splash of chicken broth or milk when reheating to loosen it back up.
Freezing
This Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some room for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 2 months, making it perfect for meal prep or busy weeknight dinners.
Reheating
Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a little broth or milk if the sauce has thickened too much. This helps bring back the creamy consistency and keeps the spaghetti from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pasta in this recipe?
Absolutely! While spaghetti works perfectly for this dish, you can substitute with penne, rotini, or even fettuccine. Just keep in mind the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the pasta shape and size.
Is it necessary to shred the chicken before adding the pasta?
Shredding the chicken ensures every bite gets an even mix of meat and sauce, enhancing the texture and flavor distribution. It’s highly recommended but if you’re in a pinch, you can cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces instead.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Definitely! The Rotel tomatoes already add a mild spiciness, but you can kick it up a notch by adding chopped jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to suit your heat preference.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
If you don’t have cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom or cream of cheddar soups work great as alternatives. They tweak the flavor slightly but keep the dish just as creamy and delicious.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Yes, this dish is fantastic for meal prepping because it holds up well when stored and reheated. It makes ahead dinners a breeze, and its comforting flavors only get better after resting overnight.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti Recipe is truly a gem in the world of easy and satisfying meals. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug after a busy day, with layers of flavor and creamy, cheesy goodness that never disappoint. I can’t recommend it enough for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or anytime you want a fuss-free meal that tastes like it took hours to prepare. Give it a try—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
Print
Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 hours
- Total Time: 5 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Nut-Free
Description
This Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti is a comforting, easy-to-make slow cooker recipe featuring tender chicken breasts cooked in a rich, cheesy sauce with diced tomatoes, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese. The uncooked spaghetti is added directly into the crockpot for a hassle-free, one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
Chicken and Sauce
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies (undrained)
- 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese, cubed
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Pasta and Cheese
- 8 oz uncooked spaghetti
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Garnish (Optional)
- Chopped parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken and Sauce: Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. Add the cream of chicken soup, undrained Rotel diced tomatoes, cubed cream cheese, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper on top. Stir slightly to combine ingredients.
- Cook the Chicken: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours until the chicken is fully cooked through and tender.
- Shred the Chicken: Remove the cooked chicken breasts from the crockpot and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot.
- Add Spaghetti: Break the uncooked spaghetti in half and stir it into the crockpot mixture. Cover and cook on high for an additional 20 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking, until the spaghetti is tender.
- Add Cheese and Serve: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until well melted and creamy. Serve the creamy chicken spaghetti warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
- Stir the spaghetti frequently during the last 10 to 15 minutes of cooking to prevent it from sticking together.
- You can substitute cream of mushroom or cream of cheddar soup for a flavor variation.
- Add spinach or peas for an extra vegetable boost and added nutrition.
