This Easy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti is great for busy weeknights! Just toss chicken, pasta, and a few simple ingredients into the slow cooker and let it work its magic.
The best part? You come home to a warm and tasty meal without the fuss! I love serving it with a sprinkle of cheese on top—so good! 🧀😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe. You can use thighs for a richer flavor. If you’re vegetarian, consider swapping in chickpeas or cooked lentils for protein.
Soups: Cream of mushroom and cream of chicken soups bring creaminess. If you’re looking for healthier options, use low-fat soups or make a homemade white sauce instead. For a dairy-free version, go for non-dairy cream soups.
Pasta: Spaghetti is a classic choice. If you want a gluten-free option, use rice noodles or gluten-free pasta. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Cheese: Cheddar and mozzarella add a cheesy finish. If you like a stronger flavor, try gouda or pepper jack. Nutritional yeast can be a great dairy-free cheese substitute.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Chicken?
Getting juicy, flavorful chicken is key in this crockpot dish. Here’s how to ensure your chicken turns out great:
- Season the chicken well with salt and pepper before adding other ingredients.
- Consider marinating the chicken in your favorite spices or a bit of lemon juice before cooking for added flavor.
- Make sure the chicken is submerged in the sauce to keep it moist while cooking.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Pasta in a Crockpot?
Cooking pasta can be tricky, but here are some tips to get it just right:
- Add the pasta in the last half hour of cooking. This prevents it from becoming mushy.
- Break the spaghetti in half to fit easily in the slow cooker and ensure even cooking.
- Make sure to stir and add enough liquid so the pasta cooks evenly.
Enjoy making this easy crockpot chicken spaghetti that’s perfect for your busy nights!
Easy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Base:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (optional for a slight kick)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Pasta and Cheeses:
- 8 oz spaghetti noodles, broken in half
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, plus extra for topping
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
For Extra Flavor:
- 1 tsp chili powder (optional)
- 1/2 tsp cumin (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and requires either about 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high in the slow cooker. So, while you’re busy with your day, this meal cooks itself, giving you great flavors and minimal effort!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. This will ensure they cook evenly and stay juicy.
2. Mix the Base:
In a medium bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, diced tomatoes with green chilies (if you want a little kick), chopped onion, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir it all together until it’s well mixed.
3. Combine in the Slow Cooker:
Pour the soup mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker. Make sure everything is nicely coated!
4. Cook the Chicken:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. Your kitchen will start to smell amazing!
5. Shred the Chicken:
About 30 minutes before serving, take the chicken breasts out of the slow cooker and shred them using two forks. They should be tender and easy to pull apart!
6. Add the Pasta:
Return the shredded chicken back to the slow cooker. Now, break the spaghetti noodles in half and add them in. Give it a good stir to ensure the noodles are covered in sauce.
7. Cook the Pasta:
Cover the slow cooker again and cook on high for another 20-30 minutes, or until the spaghetti is tender.
8. Stir in the Cheeses:
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese until it melts and combines well with the dish. Yum!
9. Final Taste Check:
Give your spaghetti a taste and adjust salt and pepper to your liking.
10. Serve and Garnish:
Serve your warm, creamy crockpot chicken spaghetti hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro and extra cheese if you like!
Enjoy your delicious meal, perfect for those busy weeknights with family or friends! 😊
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to add an additional hour to the cooking time if you’re using the low setting. Ensure the chicken is fully cooked (165°F) before shredding.
Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Just substitute regular spaghetti with gluten-free pasta. Remember to check that your canned soups are gluten-free as well.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of broth to loosen it up if needed.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. Just chop them up and add them to the slow cooker along with the other ingredients for added nutrition and flavor!
