This Easy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti is perfect for busy weeknights! Just toss chicken, spaghetti, and sauce into the slow cooker, and let it work its magic while you unwind.
Honestly, this dish is like a cozy hug! I love how the pasta cooks right in the pot. Plus, dinner is ready when you are—what’s not to love? 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe as they stay moist and tender. You can substitute with thighs for a juicier option or use rotisserie chicken if you’re short on time.
Cream Soups: The cream of mushroom and cream of chicken soups create a rich base. If you’re avoiding cream soups, try making a homemade white sauce or using a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk mixed with flour for thickening.
Pasta: Spaghetti is the classic choice here, but any pasta shape works! Consider using whole grain or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary.
Canned Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes add a nice flavor. If you prefer fresh, use about 2 cups of diced tomatoes. For a more robust sauce, add a tablespoon of tomato paste.
How Do I Ensure My Pasta Is Cooked Perfectly in the Crockpot?
Cooking pasta in a crockpot needs some attention to keep it from getting mushy. Here’s how to do it right:
- After shredding the chicken, add the broken spaghetti and stir well.
- Make sure the pasta is submerged in the sauce to cook evenly.
- Cover and cook on high for about 30 minutes, stirring halfway through to prevent sticking.
Keep an eye on it—overcooking can lead to a mushy texture. In this case, less is more!
Enjoy your easy chicken spaghetti; it’s a warm and delicious family meal!
Easy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Soups and Sauces:
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies (optional for a mild kick)
Pasta and Cheese:
- 8 oz spaghetti pasta (broken in half)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Seasonings and Garnish:
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal requires about 15 minutes of prep time, with a cooking time of 5-6 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the crockpot. Plus, an additional 30 minutes to cook the pasta right in the pot. Just set it and forget it until dinner time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. This will be the base of your dish.
2. Mix in the Flavor:
Next, add the chopped onions, minced garlic, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and drained diced tomatoes. If you’re using green chilies for a bit of extra flavor, toss those in as well. Give everything a good stir to combine.
3. Set It to Cook:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and cooked through by the time you’re ready for the next steps.
4. Shred the Chicken:
When the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the pot and shred them using two forks. Shredding releases all those delicious flavors into the mix!
5. Combine Everything:
Return the shredded chicken back into the crockpot and stir to distribute everything evenly.
6. Add the Pasta:
Now, break the spaghetti in half and add it to the crockpot. Stir everything together to ensure that the pasta is well-coated in the sauce and submerged.
7. Cook the Pasta:
Cover the crockpot and cook on high for about 30 minutes, or until the pasta is nice and tender. Remember to stir halfway through to keep it from sticking together.
8. Cheese It Up:
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is melted and everything is beautifully combined.
9. Season to Taste:
Give your dish a taste and add salt and pepper as needed to enhance the flavors.
10. Garnish and Serve:
Top your delicious chicken spaghetti with fresh parsley or chopped green onions if desired. Serve warm and enjoy every bite!
This comforting dish is perfect for busy nights and sure to be a hit with the whole family! Enjoy your meal! 🍽️
FAQ
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just remember to adjust the cooking time. If using frozen chicken breasts, cook on low for about 6-7 hours or on high for 4-5 hours until they are fully cooked and tender.
Can I Substitute the Cream Soups?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can make a homemade white sauce using milk, flour, and seasonings. Alternatively, try a dairy-free cream soup substitute or even a plain Greek yogurt for a tangy kick.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add in vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. Just chop them finely and mix them in with the other ingredients before cooking!
