This Easy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti is a lifesaver for busy nights! Just toss chicken, pasta, sauce, and cheese into your slow cooker, and let it do all the work while you relax.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I like to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe since they cook tender and shred easily. You can substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier option, or even try leftover rotisserie chicken to save time.
Chicken Broth: This adds flavor and richness to your dish. If you don’t have broth on hand, water works just fine. You can also use vegetable broth for a lighter option.
Cream Cheese: This gives the sauce a creamy texture. You could swap it with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist, or use sour cream if you’re looking for a slightly tangy flavor.
Spaghetti: Regular spaghetti works perfectly, but you can try whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times as needed since different pastas vary in cook time.
Cheeses: I love using cheddar and mozzarella for their melty goodness. Feel free to mix in other favorites like provolone or gouda; just ensure they melt well.
How Do I Cook Spaghetti Perfectly in a Crockpot?
Cooking spaghetti in a crockpot can be a bit tricky, but it’s easy once you get the hang of it. Here’s how to ensure perfect pasta:
- Make sure to break the spaghetti noodles in half so they fit well in the crockpot.
- Add the noodles towards the end of cooking; this helps prevent them from becoming mushy.
- Keep the lid on while cooking to maintain moisture and heat. Stir gently to combine and check if the noodles are fully submerged.
- Cook on high for about 30-45 minutes after adding the noodles, depending on the type used.
Following these tips will give you perfectly tender spaghetti every time! Enjoy your hearty meal!
Easy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained (optional: with green chilies for a kick)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (8 oz) package spaghetti noodles, broken in half
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened and cut into chunks
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and then you’ll need about 5-6 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the crockpot. After cooking, you’ll add the noodles and cheese which takes an extra 30-45 minutes. Keep in mind that you’ll spend minimal time hands-on, making it perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Base:
Start with your crockpot! Place the two large chicken breasts at the bottom. This is your base for a lovely, tender chicken.
2. Add the Flavor Ingredients:
Next, toss in the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced tomatoes (don’t drain!). Pour in the chicken broth, add the Italian seasoning, and sprinkle some salt and pepper. Give everything a gentle stir, but don’t disturb the chicken too much!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Now, cover your crockpot and set it to cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 3-4 hours. You want the chicken to be fully cooked and tender enough to shred easily.
4. Shred the Chicken:
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken breasts and shred them using two forks. It should fall apart easily. Return the shredded chicken back into the broth mixture in the crockpot.
5. Add the Spaghetti:
Take the broken spaghetti noodles and add them directly into the crockpot. Make sure to stir well so that all the noodles get submerged in the liquid. This is key to getting them cooked perfectly!
6. Creamy Sauce Time:
Now it’s time for that creamy goodness! Add the chunks of cream cheese into the crockpot. Stir the mixture so the cream cheese melts into the broth, creating a smooth, creamy sauce.
7. Finish Cooking the Spaghetti:
Cover the crockpot again and let it cook on high for another 30-45 minutes. This will allow the spaghetti to become tender and absorb all those delicious flavors!
8. Add the Cheesy Topping:
When the spaghetti is cooked, stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Mix until everything is melted and beautifully combined.
9. Taste and Adjust:
Give it a taste! If you think it needs more seasoning, feel free to add more salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything is ready, serve your creamy chicken spaghetti hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley. Enjoy your comforting meal!
Quick tip: This meal keeps well in the fridge for leftovers, so it’s great for meal prep too!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to add an extra hour of cooking time on low, and ensure it’s fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before shredding.
How Can I Make This Dish Healthier?
To make it a bit healthier, use whole wheat spaghetti or a gluten-free pasta alternative. Additionally, you can reduce the amount of cheese or substitute with low-fat versions to lower the calorie count.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to moisten the pasta.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can add bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to the crockpot along with the other ingredients. Just chop them small enough so they cook through in the time specified.
