Eloise Moon If you’re looking for a warm, creamy, and comforting dinner that practically cooks itself, this Easy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti recipe is here to save your evening. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, meal-prepping for the week, or simply craving something hearty yet hassle-free, this cheesy spaghetti dish is your one-stop solution.
With minimal ingredients, hands-off cooking, and maximum flavor, this slow cooker chicken spaghetti is designed to make dinnertime feel like less of a chore and more of a celebration. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to master this crave-worthy dish.
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti
This recipe checks all the right boxes:
- ✨ Effortless Prep: Just toss everything into your slow cooker and let it work its magic.
- 🍽️ Creamy & Cheesy: A rich blend of cream cheese and cheddar melts perfectly into the sauce.
- 🍳 One-Pot Wonder: Cook your pasta right in the crockpot—less cleanup!
- 👪 Kid-Friendly: Mild flavors and cheesy goodness make this a family hit.
- ❄️ Freezer-Friendly: Store leftovers for easy future meals.
Ingredients for Easy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti
Here’s what you’ll need:
Core Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (e.g., Rotel)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 8 oz spaghetti noodles (broken in half)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
Optional Add-ins:
- ½ cup diced bell peppers (any color)
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- ½ cup frozen peas or corn
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- 5- or 6-quart slow cooker
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Large spoon or spatula
- Forks for shredding chicken
- Pot (if pre-boiling noodles)
How to Make Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti
1. Layer Your Base
Place the chicken breasts into the bottom of your crockpot. Add cream of chicken soup, diced tomatoes with green chilies, chicken broth, and all the seasonings. Give it a gentle stir.
2. Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover and cook on LOW for 5-6 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
3. Shred the Chicken
Remove the chicken and shred using two forks. Return it to the slow cooker.
4. Add the Cheese
Stir in the shredded cheddar and cream cheese. Mix until melted and incorporated into the sauce.
5. Cook the Pasta
You have two options:
- Stovetop Method: Boil spaghetti until al dente and stir into the crockpot.
- One-Pot Method: Add uncooked noodles and ½ cup extra broth. Cook on HIGH for 25-30 minutes.
6. Mix and Serve
Once the pasta is cooked and coated in cheesy goodness, it’s ready to serve. Garnish with chopped parsley, grated parmesan, or red pepper flakes if desired.
Secret Flavor Tips
- 🥛 Add a Splash of Heavy Cream for extra richness.
- 🌶 Spice it Up with cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
- 🌿 Brighten it Up with fresh basil or chives before serving.
- ☕️ Sour Cream Swirl: Add a spoonful just before serving for a tangy twist.
Recipe Variations & Customization Ideas
🌶 Make It Spicy
Use hot Rotel or add jalapeños and crushed red pepper.
🌿 Go Veggie
Mix in mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
🤔 Cheese It Your Way
Swap cheddar for mozzarella, pepper jack, or a Mexican blend.
👨🍳 Use Rotisserie Chicken
Add cooked, shredded rotisserie chicken during the last 30 minutes.
🍏 Low-Carb Option
Replace spaghetti with spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your chicken spaghetti with sides that complement its creamy, savory flavor:
- 🌾 Garlic Bread or Cheesy Breadsticks
- 🥦 Steamed Green Beans or Roasted Broccoli
- 🥜 Crisp Side Salad with Vinaigrette
- 🍽 Corn on the Cob
- 🍇 Fresh Fruit Platter
Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)
Estimated for 6 servings
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 24g
- Carbs: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 820mg
Healthier Swaps:
- Use low-fat dairy options
- Opt for whole wheat or protein-packed pasta
- Use low-sodium soup and broth
- Add more veggies to boost fiber
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ❌ Overcooking Pasta: Add it toward the end or cook separately.
- ❌ Not Stirring Cheese Properly: Ensure it melts evenly.
- ❌ Not Enough Liquid: Add extra broth if needed.
- ❌ Overcooking Chicken on High: Use low heat for best results.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Refrigerator:
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer:
Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
Reheat:
Microwave in 60-second bursts or reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk to maintain creaminess.
FAQs: Your Crockpot Spaghetti Questions Answered
Can I Use Frozen Chicken?
Yes, but ensure your slow cooker allows it. Increase the cook time accordingly.
Can I Cook the Pasta in the Crockpot?
Absolutely! Just add it during the last 25-30 minutes with extra liquid.
Is This Recipe Dairy-Free Friendly?
Yes, with modifications. Use plant-based cream cheese and shredded cheese alternatives.
Can I Double the Recipe?
Yes, just ensure your slow cooker has enough space.
Will Other Pasta Shapes Work?
Yes. Penne, rotini, or fettuccine hold up well.
Related Slow Cooker Recipes to Try Next
- 🍽 Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken
- 🍼 Crockpot Creamy Ranch Chicken
- 🥚 Cheesy Crockpot Sausage and Potatoes
- 🍜 Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff
- 🥒 Crockpot Taco Pasta
Explore more family-style dinners in our comfort food collection.
Final Thoughts: Cozy Comfort Made Easy
This Easy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti is more than just a recipe—it’s a stress-free way to bring people together around the dinner table. With minimal ingredients, simple steps, and unbeatable cheesy flavor, it’s sure to become a weeknight favorite.
