This Easy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti is perfect for busy weeknights! Just throw in chicken, pasta, and some tasty sauce, and let the slow cooker do the work for you!
I love how I can set it and forget it. When I come home, the house smells amazing and dinner is ready. Who doesn’t love a simple meal that tastes like a warm hug? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless are ideal for this recipe. If you’re in a pinch, you can use thighs for extra flavor or even frozen chicken (just add extra cooking time).
Pasta: I use spaghetti, but any pasta like penne or rotini works fine. You can even opt for gluten-free pasta if needed. Just be sure to adjust cooking time accordingly!
Cream Soups: Cream of mushroom and cream of chicken add richness. If you prefer, homemade versions or even a plant-based soup can work well for a lighter dish.
Cheese: Cheddar is a classic choice, but feel free to mix it up with mozzarella or pepper jack for a spicy kick. A sprinkle of parmesan could also add a delightful touch!
How Do I Get My Chicken to Come Out Tender and Flavored?
The key to tender chicken is low and slow cooking. Time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Here’s how to achieve it:
- Always place the chicken at the bottom of the crockpot for even cooking.
- Cover it with the liquid ingredients—this helps keep the chicken moist.
- Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours; avoid opening the lid during cooking to keep heat in.
- After shredding, stir the chicken back into the sauce to soak up all that delicious flavor.
Easy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Sauce:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (10 oz) can Ro*Tel diced tomatoes and green chilies (optional for a mild kick)
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Pasta and Cheese:
- 8 ounces spaghetti pasta, broken into thirds
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Time Estimate:
This recipe will take about 30 minutes of prep time and 6 hours of cooking on low (or 3 hours on high), making it a great option for a ‘set it and forget it’ dinner during busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. This helps them cook evenly and stay juicy!
2. Mix in the Sauce Ingredients:
On top of the chicken, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, undrained diced tomatoes, Ro*Tel (if using), tomato sauce, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and black pepper. Give everything a gentle stir to combine.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is cooked through and tender, ready to be shredded!
4. Shred the Chicken:
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken breasts and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and mix it well with the sauce.
5. Add the Spaghetti:
Break your spaghetti into thirds and add it to the crockpot. Give it a good stir to coat the pasta with the sauce.
6. Finish Cooking the Pasta:
Cover again and cook on high for an additional 30 to 45 minutes, or until the spaghetti is cooked al dente. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking!
7. Add Cheese:
Once the pasta is done, stir in 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheese until it’s melted and creamy.
8. Top with More Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese on top, cover, and let it sit for 5 minutes to melt.
9. Serve:
Give everything another stir, garnish with chopped parsley if you’d like, and serve hot. Enjoy this comforting dish perfect for any weeknight!
This Easy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti is bound to become a family favorite that you can whip up with minimal effort. Happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just increase the cooking time by about 1 to 2 hours on low or 30 minutes on high. Make sure they’re fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Can I Replace the Cream Soups with Something Healthier?
Absolutely! You can use low-fat or fat-free versions of cream soups, or make a homemade version using Greek yogurt and vegetable or chicken broth for a lighter alternative.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator the night before, and reheat on the stove or microwave.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. Just chop them up and add them to the crockpot with the other ingredients. They’ll cook down nicely during the slow cooking process!
