This Easy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti is a cozy dish made with tender chicken, pasta, and a creamy sauce all cooked in one pot. Perfect for busy days!
I love how simple it is—just throw everything in the crockpot and wait for the magic to happen. Dinner will be ready, and your kitchen will smell amazing! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe, keeping it tender. If you’re short on time, shredded rotisserie chicken can be a great substitute; just add it in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Cream Soups: The cream of mushroom and cream of chicken soups add creaminess. You can swap them with homemade versions or even with a can of Alfredo sauce for a different twist if you need a lighter option.
Diced Tomatoes: These add great flavor. If you prefer no chunks, you might use crushed tomatoes instead. For a kick, consider adding diced green chiles for a mild spice.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its strong flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter cheese, try mozzarella or even a dairy-free cheese for a healthier version.
Pasta: Traditional spaghetti is perfect, but you can substitute with other types like fettuccine or even gluten-free pasta if preferred. Just follow cooking times accordingly!
How Do You Make Sure Your Spaghetti Doesn’t Get Mushy?
Getting the spaghetti just right can be tricky! After the chicken is cooked and shredded, breaking the pasta in half helps it fit and cook evenly. Here are the key steps:
- Add uncooked spaghetti directly to the sauce; it cooks in the liquid while absorbing flavor.
- Cook on high for just 30-45 minutes; keep an eye on it, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.
- Test for doneness a few minutes before the time is up; the pasta should be al dente—not overcooked!
Following these tips will help you achieve perfectly cooked spaghetti every time!
Easy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 ounces uncooked spaghetti, broken in half
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time and around 5-6 hours to cook on low or 3-4 hours on high in your crockpot. Plus, you’ll need an additional 30-45 minutes for the spaghetti to cook. Just set it and forget it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts flat at the bottom of your crockpot. This will be the foundation for your dish.
2. Add Aromatics:
Next, sprinkle the finely chopped onion and minced garlic over the chicken. These ingredients will infuse wonderful flavors as they cook.
3. Mix in the Sauces:
Pour in the cream of mushroom soup, the cream of chicken soup, the drained diced tomatoes, and the chicken broth. Give everything a gentle stir to mix the ingredients together.
4. Season It Up:
Sprinkle on your optional chili powder, black pepper, salt, and smoked paprika if you choose to use it. This adds a lovely kick to the dish!
5. Cook the Chicken:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You want the chicken to be fully cooked and tender.
6. Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the crockpot. Use two forks to shred it, and then return the shredded chicken back into the pot.
7. Add the Spaghetti:
Take your uncooked spaghetti, break it in half, and stir it into the crockpot mixture. Make sure it’s submerged in the sauce.
8. Cook the Spaghetti:
Cover the crockpot again and cook on high for another 30-45 minutes, or until the spaghetti is nice and tender. Don’t forget to stir occasionally to avoid any sticking!
9. Cheese It Up:
When the spaghetti is cooked to perfection, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix it until it’s melted and beautifully combined with everything.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your delicious chicken spaghetti with fresh parsley or cilantro if you’d like. Serve it hot and dive into the comforting flavors!
Enjoy your comforting, creamy, and flavorful Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti dinner!
FAQ About Easy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti Dinner
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just be aware that the cooking time may increase by about an hour. Make sure to cook it until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.
What Can I Substitute for Cream Soups?
If you prefer not to use canned cream soups, you can replace them with homemade white sauce (a mix of butter, flour, and milk) or a jar of Alfredo sauce for a creamy texture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it seems dry.
Can I Make This Recipe Lower in Calories?
Absolutely! You can use leaner cuts of chicken, low-fat cream soups, and reduce the cheese amount. Also, consider using whole wheat or veggie pasta for added health benefits!
