Easily whip up a hearty, cheesy, and comforting CrockPot Chicken Spaghetti that’s sure to satisfy the whole family! This creamy chicken spaghetti brings together tender shredded chicken, zesty diced tomatoes with green chilies, and melted cheddar cheese for a mouthwatering dinner that’s as easy as it is delicious. With preparation time of just 15 minutes and a hands-off cooking time of around 6 hours, this beginner-level recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something warm and satisfying. At about 450 calories per serving, it strikes the right balance between comfort food bliss and portion control. Whether you’re new to slow cooking or you’ve been a CrockPot enthusiast for years, this dish proves that a few simple pantry staples and a reliable slow cooker can transform dinner into a celebration of creamy textures and bold flavors.
My kitchen often smells like a cozy Italian trattoria by the time this chicken spaghetti is ready. As the hours pass, the onions and seasonings meld with those classic cream-of-chicken and cream-of-mushroom soups, infusing the entire house with a savory warmth. Then you shred the chicken, fold in golden strands of spaghetti, and top everything off with melting cheddar cheese—cue the collective “mmm” around the dinner table. If you’ve ever wondered how to elevate everyday ingredients into a soul-soothing meal, this recipe is your answer. Feel free to customize with extra veggies, swap in your favorite pasta shape, or sneak in a block of cream cheese for extra decadence. I’d love to hear how you make it your own!
KEY INGREDIENTS IN CROCKPOT CHICKEN SPAGHETTI
Before you dive in, let’s talk about the stars of this show. Each ingredient has a special role, whether it’s building the creamy base, adding a tangy kick, or delivering that cheesy finish we all crave.
- Chicken breasts
Tender, lean protein that easily shreds into bite-sized pieces. As it slow-cooks, the chicken soaks up all the surrounding flavors, ensuring every forkful is juicy and flavorful.
- Cream of chicken soup
Creates a rich, silky foundation that binds the ingredients together. Its mild savory notes complement the heartiness of the chicken without overpowering the overall flavor.
- Cream of mushroom soup
Adds an earthy depth and extra creaminess, marrying beautifully with the tangy diced tomatoes and green chilies for a well-rounded taste profile.
- Diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel)
Brings a zesty, slightly spicy element that cuts through the richness. The chilies lend a gentle heat and vibrant color to the sauce.
- Chicken broth
Thins the soups just enough to create a saucy consistency, while reinforcing the savory backbone of the dish and preventing it from becoming too heavy.
- Onion
Provides a sweet and aromatic base. As it softens during the long cook, it releases natural sugars that enhance the overall sweetness of the sauce.
- Shredded cheddar cheese
Melts into gooey strands throughout the casserole, creating that irresistible cheesy pull. A portion is stirred in early, and more is sprinkled on top for a bubbly finish.
- Garlic powder and onion powder
Convenient pantry staples that deliver a concentrated burst of flavor. They ensure every bite has a consistent kick of savory goodness.
- Italian seasoning
A fragrant blend of herbs—typically oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary—that infuses the dish with a hint of Mediterranean flair.
- Salt and pepper
Essential seasonings to balance and enhance all the flavors. Season to taste, keeping in mind the sodium content of the soups and broth.
- Spaghetti
Classic pasta strands that soak up the creamy sauce. When cooked al dente, they offer just the right amount of bite to complement the tender chicken.
- Olive oil
Prevents the cooked pasta from sticking and adds a subtle fruity richness when tossed with the spaghetti before it joins the slow cooker.
- Fresh parsley
A bright, herbaceous garnish that adds freshness and a pop of color, cutting through the richness with its lively flavor.
HOW TO MAKE CROCKPOT CHICKEN SPAGHETTI
Let’s roll up our sleeves and walk through each step—your slow cooker will handle the heavy lifting while you relax or tackle other tasks. Follow these detailed instructions for a foolproof, creamy chicken spaghetti that’s bursting with flavor.
1. Place the chicken breasts into the CrockPot.
Start by arranging the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of your slow cooker insert. This ensures even cooking and makes shredding simpler later on.
2. Add the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, diced tomatoes with green chilies, chicken broth, diced onion, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper over the chicken.
Gently pour and sprinkle each component on top of the chicken. Layering the ingredients helps disperse flavors evenly as they stew together.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through.
Secure the lid and select your heat setting. On low, flavors meld slowly; on high, the dish finishes more quickly. The chicken is done when it easily pulls apart or reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
4. While the chicken is cooking, cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and drizzle with olive oil to prevent sticking, then set aside.
Boil the pasta in salted water, then immediately toss with a light coating of olive oil. This keeps the strands separate and ready to absorb the saucy chicken mixture.
5. Once the chicken is done, remove it from the CrockPot and shred it using two forks.
Transfer the breasts to a cutting board or plate and use two forks to pull the meat into thin, even shreds.
6. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker. Add the cooked spaghetti and 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese to the chicken mixture.
Stir in the pasta and cheese, making sure every strand is coated in the creamy sauce. The initial cheese helps bind everything together.
7. Stir everything together until well combined.
Use a large spoon or spatula to gently fold the ingredients, distributing the chicken, cheese, and sauce evenly throughout the pasta.
8. Cover and cook on low for another 15-20 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and the flavors to meld.
This short final cook gives the cheese time to melt into a bubbly, cohesive topping and ensures the sauce thickens slightly.
9. Serve hot, garnished with the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese and fresh parsley.
Sprinkle on any leftover cheese for an extra gooey layer, then finish with a handful of chopped parsley for color and brightness.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR CROCKPOT CHICKEN SPAGHETTI
Once your kitchen is filled with that irresistible slow-cooker warmth, it’s time to plate up this creamy chicken spaghetti in style. Presentation and complementary sides can elevate a humble weeknight meal into a memorable dining experience. Think about textures and temperatures—cool, crisp elements contrast the rich, cheesy pasta, while warm extras keep the comfort factor high. Whether you’re feeding hungry teens or impressing dinner guests, these serving ideas will ensure every plate looks and tastes spectacular.
- Serve with warm garlic bread
Slice a baguette or loaf, brush with garlic-butter, and toast until golden. The crunch of the bread makes the perfect foil for the creamy spaghetti and is ideal for scooping up every last bit of sauce.
- Pair with a crisp green salad
Toss mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber ribbons in a light vinaigrette. The bright acidity and crunch help balance the richness of the cheese and cream soups.
- Offer a zesty sliced jalapeño or hot sauce on the side
For spice lovers, a few slices of fresh jalapeño or a dash of your favorite hot sauce adds a fiery kick that contrasts beautifully with the savory base.
- Garnish each serving with extra chopped parsley and a lemon wedge
The fresh herbs bring vibrant color and a hint of earthy flavor, while a quick squeeze of lemon juice adds a pop of brightness that lifts the entire dish.
HOW TO STORE CROCKPOT CHICKEN SPAGHETTI
Leftovers can be just as delicious as the first serving, provided you store them correctly. Proper storage not only preserves the creamy texture but also prevents the spaghetti from drying out or becoming mushy. Cooling the dish quickly and sealing it from outside air are key to maintaining that fresh-made taste. Follow these methods to keep your chicken spaghetti ready for reheating and enjoying all week long.
- Refrigerator storage
Allow the chicken spaghetti to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to a sealed, airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess.
- Freezer storage
Portion the cooled leftovers into freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to ensure even warming.
- Vacuum sealing
For maximum longevity, vacuum seal individual servings. This method removes excess air and prevents freezer burn, keeping the texture and flavor intact for up to 6 months.
- Reheating tips
When you’re ready to eat, reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a small splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen the sauce. If using a microwave, heat in short intervals and stir to maintain an even temperature.
CONCLUSION
This CrockPot Chicken Spaghetti recipe is proof that simplicity and flavor can go hand in hand. We’ve covered everything from the creamy base built on two classic soups to the zesty pop of tomatoes and green chilies, the careful shredding of chicken, and the perfect melt of cheddar cheese. With just 15 minutes of prep and a few hands-on moments, your slow cooker handles the rest—transforming humble pantry staples into a family-friendly, cheesy dinner that tastes far more luxurious than it looks. Whether served with garlic bread, a crisp salad, or a squeeze of fresh lemon, this dish is designed to brighten your table and warm your heart on even the busiest of evenings.
Feel free to print this article or save it for later—you’ll want to refer back to these tips and variations when you need a go-to comfort food that’s both satisfying and straightforward. You can find a FAQ below to tackle any lingering questions, but I also welcome your personal stories: Did you swap in extra veggies? Add cream cheese for indulgence? How did your family react to the first bite? Drop a comment, share your feedback, or ask any questions if you need help perfecting this recipe. Your kitchen triumphs and tweaks are what make cooking so much fun, and I can’t wait to hear how your CrockPot Chicken Spaghetti turns out!
CrockPot Chicken Spaghetti
Description
This creamy chicken spaghetti brings together tender shredded chicken, zesty tomatoes, and melted cheddar cheese for a mouthwatering meal that's as easy as it is delicious.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Place the chicken breasts into the CrockPot.
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Add the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, diced tomatoes with green chilies, chicken broth, diced onion, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper over the chicken.
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Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through.
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While the chicken is cooking, cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and drizzle with olive oil to prevent sticking, then set aside.
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Once the chicken is done, remove it from the CrockPot and shred it using two forks.
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Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker. Add the cooked spaghetti and 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese to the chicken mixture.
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Stir everything together until well combined.
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Cover and cook on low for another 15-20 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and the flavors to meld.
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Serve hot, garnished with the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese and fresh parsley.
Note
- This dish is great for a comforting weeknight meal.
- You can add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor.
- For a creamy variation, add a block of cream cheese to the mixture.
- Feel free to substitute any pasta of your choice.
