This Easy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti is a lifesaver for busy nights! Just toss in chicken, pasta, and your favorite sauce, then let the slow cooker do all the work.
You’ll love how creamy and delicious it turns out, and it’s a one-pot meal, which means less cleanup for you—win-win! I enjoy serving it with a side salad for a complete dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts make this dish easy and lean. If you’re looking for a heartier option, feel free to use thighs. You could also use rotisserie chicken to save time.
Cream Soups: I use cream of mushroom and cream of chicken for richness. However, you can switch to homemade versions or use a cream of celery soup for a different flavor. Dairy-free alternatives are available too.
Cream Cheese: This gives the dish its creamy texture. If you prefer a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese. It won’t be as rich, but it’s still delicious!
Pasta: Spaghetti works great, but you can substitute with any pasta you like. Try penne or fusilli for a fun twist! Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken in a crockpot takes care, but it’s pretty straightforward. To make sure your chicken turns out juicy and tender, be mindful of the cooking time.
- Place the chicken at the bottom and layer your sauces and broth on top for even cooking.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should be at least 165°F (75°C).
- If you’re shredding the chicken, do it when it’s tender. That means it should easily pull apart with a fork!
This recipe is a game-changer for those hectic nights. Have fun with it, and feel free to customize it to suit your tastes!
Easy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, cut into cubes
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon cumin (optional)
- 8 oz spaghetti pasta, broken in half
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pet project takes about 15 minutes to prep and then 5-6 hours on low in the crockpot or 3-4 hours on high. After that, just cook the pasta in the last half hour, and you’re ready to dig in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get the Chicken Ready:
Start by putting the boneless chicken breasts right at the bottom of your crockpot. Season them with a pinch of salt, pepper, and, if you’d like a little kick, sprinkle in some chili powder and cumin.
2. Add the Creamy Goodness:
Next, toss in your finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Then, pour in the cream of mushroom soup and cream of chicken soup. Add those creamy cheese cubes and the chicken broth right over everything.
3. Let It Cook:
Cover your crockpot and let the magic happen! Cook on low for about 5-6 hours or on high for around 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender enough to shred.
4. Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is done, carefully remove it from the pot and use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Don’t worry, it’s super easy if the chicken is properly cooked. Put the shredded meat back in the pot and give it a good stir.
5. Add the Pasta:
Now it’s time for the spaghetti! Break the pasta in half and add it to the crockpot. Stir everything around so the pasta gets nicely coated in that creamy sauce. Cover again and let it cook on high for an additional 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is cooked to your liking.
6. Make It Cheesy:
Once the pasta is ready, add in a cup of shredded cheddar cheese and stir until it melts into that creamy mixture. Save half a cup of cheddar cheese for topping later.
7. Serve & Enjoy:
Your chicken spaghetti is ready to serve! Dish it up and sprinkle the reserved cheese on top. If you like, garnish with some fresh parsley or cilantro for an added touch.
Enjoy your creamy, comforting, and oh-so-easy crockpot chicken spaghetti—perfect for those busy weeknights! It’s a meal that everyone will love!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure the chicken is completely thawed for even cooking. If using frozen chicken, increase the cooking time by about an hour, but always ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before serving.
Can I Substitute the Cream Cheeses?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can replace the cream cheese with Greek yogurt or cottage cheese. While it may alter the flavor slightly, it will still create a creamy texture. Just add it in towards the end of cooking to prevent curdling.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth or water to restore creaminess.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Chopped bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms can be added to the crockpot along with the chicken for extra nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to keep an eye on the cooking time, as additional ingredients may slightly alter it.
