This Easy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti is the perfect fix for busy nights! You just throw everything in the pot and let it cook. It’s creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying!
I love how simple it is—just chicken, pasta, and sauce! And if you’re like me, you’ll appreciate a meal that cooks while you relax. Perfect for saving time and energy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easy to work with and cook well in the crockpot. If you’re short on time or prefer pre-cooked options, shredded rotisserie chicken works great too!
Cream Soups: The cream of mushroom and cream of chicken soups add a creamy base. If you’re dairy-free, you can try using coconut cream or a dairy-free cream soup alternative.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes are convenient. If you want a fresher taste, feel free to use fresh tomatoes or a mix of tomato sauce and diced tomatoes.
Pasta: Spaghetti is the classic choice, but you can substitute other pasta types like penne or rotini. Just note that cooking times might vary a bit. Gluten-free pasta can work if that’s your preference!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Is Perfectly Cooked?
The chicken is the star here, so getting it just right is crucial. Cooking it in the crockpot allows it to become tender without drying out.
- Check that the chicken is fully submerged in the sauce. This keeps it moist.
- Cook on low for the full 6 hours for the most tender results. If you’re tight on time, you can opt for high heat, but monitor it to avoid overcooking.
After cooking, shredding the chicken can add flavor to the entire dish as it mixes with the pasta!
What’s the Best Way to Cook Pasta in the Crockpot?
Cooking pasta in a crockpot is simple, but needs a little timing. Adding uncooked spaghetti during the last half hour allows it to absorb the sauce and flavors.
- Don’t forget to break the spaghetti into halves so it fits better.
- Make sure to stir well after adding pasta to avoid clumps.
- Keep the lid on during this time to maintain heat and steam for cooking.
This method makes for a comforting, all-in-one meal without any fuss!
Easy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- 8 oz spaghetti pasta, broken into halves
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes around 10-15 minutes to prep and then allows for 6 hours of cooking on low or 3-4 hours on high in the crockpot. You’ll have a hearty meal ready to serve without any fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. This is the base for your delicious meal!
2. Mixing the Soups:
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, drained diced tomatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, chicken broth, and chili powder (if using). Mix everything together until it’s well combined.
3. Combining Everything in the Crockpot:
Pour the soup mixture over the chicken in the crockpot. This creates a tasty sauce that will soak into the chicken.
4. Cooking:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for about 6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be cooked through and tender when done.
5. Shredding the Chicken:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, take out the chicken breasts and shred them using two forks. This helps the chicken mix well with the pasta later.
6. Adding the Pasta:
Break the spaghetti into halves and add the uncooked noodles to the crockpot with the shredded chicken. Stir everything together to ensure the pasta gets coated with that delicious sauce.
7. Final Cooking:
Cover the crockpot and cook on high for another 25-30 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t overcook!
8. Mixing in the Cheese:
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until it melts and becomes creamy.
9. Seasoning:
Taste your chicken spaghetti and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. This helps bring out all the yummy flavors!
10. Serving:
Serve your delicious crockpot chicken spaghetti hot, garnished with any remaining cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of chopped parsley or green onions for that pretty touch!
This recipe simplifies dinner with minimal prep and delivers delicious, comforting flavor. Enjoy your meal!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just add an extra hour to the cooking time when using frozen chicken breasts. Make sure to check that they are fully cooked (165°F) before serving.
Can I Substitute the Cream Soups?
Absolutely! If you want a lighter option, you can use low-fat cream soups or even a homemade chicken and mushroom sauce. For a dairy-free alternative, look for plant-based cream soups or coconut cream.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth if it needs to be loosened up!
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! You can add veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms at the same time you add the pasta for added nutrition and flavor. Just adjust cooking times if necessary to ensure they are tender!
