Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite weeknight hero: crockpot chicken spaghetti! Seriously, this dish is a game changer. It’s one of those meals that marry simplicity with deliciousness in the best way possible. I can toss everything into the crockpot in just 15 minutes—no fuss, no mess—and let it do all the work while I tackle my busy day. As the aroma fills my kitchen, I can’t help but feel excited for dinner! The chicken becomes tender and flavorful, perfectly mingling with the spaghetti and that creamy sauce. Trust me, when you’re racing against the clock, this meal is like a warm hug waiting for you at the end of the day. You’re gonna love how easy and satisfying it is!
Ingredients for Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti
Alright, let’s gather the goodies! Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this amazing crockpot chicken spaghetti. I promise, it’s super straightforward!
- 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 1 cup shredded cheese (I love using cheddar, but feel free to mix it up!)
And there you have it! These ingredients come together to create a wonderfully comforting dish that’s sure to please the whole family. You might even want to keep some extras on hand for those nights when you just need a little more comfort food!
How to Prepare Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti
Alright, let’s get to the fun part—bringing this crockpot chicken spaghetti to life! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal waiting for you with minimal effort. Ready? Let’s go!
- First things first, place the 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts right in your crockpot. No need to thaw if they’re frozen; just toss them in!
- Next, add the 1 can of cream of mushroom soup and the 1 can of diced tomatoes with green chilies. The soup brings that creamy goodness while the tomatoes add a nice kick!
- Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth to keep everything moist and flavorful. It’s going to be so good!
- Now, sprinkle in the diced onion, minced garlic, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. These aromatics are what make the dish sing!
- Give everything a gentle stir to combine the flavors. And just like that, you’re done with the prep!
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. I recommend low if you want that tender chicken that falls apart with a fork.
- About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, take a fork and shred the chicken right in the crockpot. It’s super easy, and it’ll soak up all those delicious flavors!
- While that’s happening, go ahead and cook your 8 ounces of spaghetti according to the package instructions. You want it al dente since it’ll finish cooking in the crockpot.
- Once the spaghetti is cooked, drain it and add it right into the crockpot with the chicken mixture. Stir it all together, making sure every strand is coated in that creamy sauce.
- Finally, top it all off with 1 cup of shredded cheese. I love to let it melt before serving—what a treat!
And there you have it! Dinner is served, and your kitchen is filled with the most incredible aroma. Enjoy every cheesy, comforting bite of this amazing dish!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Prep Time: With just 15 minutes of prep, you can set it and forget it, making it perfect for busy days!
- Flavorful: The combination of creamy mushroom soup, zesty tomatoes, and aromatic seasonings creates a mouthwatering flavor that everyone will love.
- Comforting: There’s something so cozy about a big bowl of chicken spaghetti, especially when it’s warm and cheesy!
- Perfect for Families: This dish serves 6, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings. Plus, it’s a hit with kids!
- Great for Meal Prep: You can easily make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy the leftovers throughout the week—just reheat and dig in!
Tips for Success
Let’s make sure your crockpot chicken spaghetti turns out absolutely perfect! Here are my top tips to keep in mind:
- Adjust the Seasoning: Everyone’s taste buds are different! Don’t hesitate to adjust the Italian seasoning to your liking. You can add more if you love that herby flavor, or even toss in some red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Mix in Extra Veggies: Feel free to sneak in some extra veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or even zucchini! Just chop them up and throw them in with the other ingredients. They’ll add color and nutrition!
- Check the Cooking Time: Cooking times can vary depending on your crockpot model. If you’re cooking on low, check the chicken around the 6-hour mark to see if it’s tender enough to shred. You want it to be fork-tender, not overcooked!
- Don’t Skip the Shredding: Shredding the chicken in the crockpot allows it to soak up all those tasty juices, so make sure to do this step! It really makes a difference!
- Use Quality Ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the dish! I recommend using high-quality canned tomatoes and a flavorful broth for the best results.
- Let it Rest: After cooking, let the dish sit for about 10 minutes before serving. It helps the flavors meld together even more!
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to a delicious and satisfying meal that everyone will rave about!
Variations on Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti
Oh, the fun doesn’t stop with just one version of crockpot chicken spaghetti! There are so many delightful twists you can try to keep things exciting. Here are some of my favorite variations that I think you’ll love:
- Different Pasta Types: While classic spaghetti is a winner, you can switch it up by using penne, rotini, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose!
- Add More Veggies: Want to sneak in some extra nutrition? Toss in chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or even broccoli! They’ll add color and flavor, and you won’t even notice they’re there!
- Use Different Sauces: If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping the cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken or even a jar of your favorite marinara sauce. It’ll give the dish a whole new flavor profile!
- Spice it Up: For a zesty kick, add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning. You can also throw in some red pepper flakes to heat things up!
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs! Adding fresh basil or parsley at the end can brighten up the dish. Just chop them and sprinkle on top before serving for a pop of freshness.
- Cheesy Delight: If you’re a cheese lover like me, consider mixing in some cream cheese for an ultra-creamy texture or try different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a fun twist!
With these variations, you can make this crockpot chicken spaghetti your own! Get creative, and don’t be afraid to play around with flavors until you find your perfect combination.
Serving Suggestions
Now that your crockpot chicken spaghetti is ready to steal the show, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it to make your meal even more delightful! Here are some of my favorite pairings that complement this dish perfectly:
- Fresh Salad: A crisp, green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch that balances the creamy spaghetti.
- Garlic Bread: You can’t go wrong with warm, buttery garlic bread! It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce and makes for a comforting side.
- Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli, green beans, or carrots bring a pop of color and nutrition to your plate, plus they’re super easy to prepare!
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: If you’re looking for something a bit heartier, try roasting some Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they’re crispy. Yum!
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds a nice crunch and a hint of tang that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the chicken spaghetti.
- Fruit Salad: For a sweet finish, a light fruit salad can be a refreshing way to round out the meal. Think strawberries, blueberries, and a squeeze of lime juice!
Mix and match these sides based on what you’re craving or what you have on hand. No matter what you choose, you’re in for a delicious meal that everyone will enjoy!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s talk about how to keep those delicious leftovers from your crockpot chicken spaghetti fresh and tasty! Trust me, you’ll want to savor every last bite, so here’s how to store and reheat it like a pro.
First off, let your dish cool down a bit before storing it. This helps avoid condensation in your storage container, which can make things soggy. Once it’s cooled, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days—just make sure it’s sealed tight!
If you want to save it for a longer time, you can freeze it! Portion it out into freezer-safe containers or bags, making it super easy to grab a meal on busy days. Just remember to label them with the date, so you know how long they’ve been hanging out in there. It’ll last for about 2-3 months in the freezer.
Now, when it’s time to enjoy those leftovers, reheating is key! If you’ve got the time, I recommend letting it thaw in the fridge overnight if frozen. Then, pop it in the microwave or heat it in a pot on the stove over medium heat. Just add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it from drying out, and stir occasionally until it’s warmed through. If you’re in a hurry, you can reheat it straight from the freezer in the microwave—just remember to cover it to avoid splatters!
And there you have it! With these simple steps, your crockpot chicken spaghetti will be just as delicious the next day (or week!) as it was when you first made it. Enjoy every cheesy, comforting bite!
Nutritional Information
Let’s talk numbers! Knowing the nutritional information for your crockpot chicken spaghetti can help you feel good about what you’re serving. Here’s a breakdown of the typical values per serving, so you can enjoy this delicious meal with confidence:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 30g
These values can vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes you use, but this gives you a solid idea of what to expect. Enjoy knowing you’re serving up a hearty, satisfying meal that brings comfort without the guilt!
FAQ about Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti
Got questions about making this delicious crockpot chicken spaghetti? No problem! I’m here to help with some of the most common inquiries I get. Let’s dive in!
Can I use frozen chicken?
Absolutely! You can toss frozen chicken breasts directly into the crockpot without thawing. Just make sure to extend the cooking time a bit, as frozen chicken will take longer to cook through.
How can I make it gluten-free?
Easy peasy! Simply swap out regular spaghetti for gluten-free pasta. There are plenty of great options available these days, and they work just as well in this recipe!
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes! I love sneaking in extra veggies. Feel free to add chopped bell peppers, spinach, or even zucchini. Just toss them in with the other ingredients, and they’ll cook beautifully alongside the chicken!
Can I make it dairy-free?
Definitely! To make it dairy-free, you can skip the cheese on top or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. You can also replace the cream of mushroom soup with a dairy-free version or make your own using coconut milk and mushrooms.
How do I know when it’s done cooking?
The chicken should be fork-tender and easily shreddable. If you can shred it with a fork, it’s ready to go! Just make sure to check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Can I double the recipe?
You can definitely double it! Just make sure your crockpot is large enough to hold all the ingredients, and keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may vary slightly with a larger batch.
What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?
No worries at all! You can use cream of chicken soup or even a jar of your favorite pasta sauce as a substitute. It’ll still be delicious!
Got more questions? Feel free to reach out! I’m here to help you enjoy every bite of this amazing dish!
Print
Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti: 7 Comforting Reasons to Love It
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Crockpot chicken spaghetti is a simple and delicious meal that combines chicken, pasta, and a flavorful sauce. Perfect for busy days.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 1 cup shredded cheese
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in the crockpot.
- Add cream of mushroom soup, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, onion, garlic, and Italian seasoning.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving, shred the chicken in the crockpot.
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
- Combine spaghetti with the chicken mixture in the crockpot.
- Top with shredded cheese and let it melt before serving.
Notes
- Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.
- Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: crockpot chicken spaghetti, easy chicken recipes, slow cooker meals