Introduction
There’s nothing better than a warm, comforting meal that practically cooks itself! Crockpot chicken spaghetti is the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy goodness and hearty pasta, all made effortlessly in a slow cooker. Whether you’re juggling a busy schedule or just craving a delicious homemade dinner without the hassle, this dish is a game-changer.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything from why this recipe works, a detailed ingredients list, and step-by-step instructions to make the perfect crockpot chicken spaghetti. You’ll also get pro tips, nutritional details, and answers to common questions people ask about making this dish in a slow cooker.
Why You’ll Love Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti
A Set-It-and-Forget-It Meal
One of the best things about crockpot chicken spaghetti is its simplicity. You just throw everything into the slow cooker, let it work its magic, and come back to a perfectly cooked, creamy, cheesy pasta dish. No babysitting, no extra pans—just pure convenience!
Rich, Creamy, and Cheesy Goodness
If you love cheesy pasta dishes, this recipe is for you. With a blend of Velveeta cheese, shredded cheddar, and cream of chicken soup, each bite is smooth, creamy, and bursting with flavor. Plus, Rotel tomatoes add just the right amount of zest and a mild kick!
Perfect for Busy Weeknights & Meal Prep
Cooking for a family? Hosting a casual dinner? Need Extra food for the next day? Crockpot chicken spaghetti is a crowd-pleaser that keeps well and reheats beautifully.
Customizable to Your Taste
Prefer a little heat? Add some red pepper flakes. Want more veggies? Toss in some diced bell peppers or mushrooms. Love extra protein? Stir in shredded chicken from a rotisserie. The possibilities are endless!
Ingredients for Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti
Essential Ingredients
For the best crockpot chicken spaghetti, you’ll need:
- Chicken – 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for more tenderness).
- Seasonings – 1 tsp salt, ½ tsp black pepper, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp smoked paprika.
- Creamy Base – 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup, 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup.
- Flavor Enhancers – 1 can (10 oz) Rotel tomatoes (adds zest and mild heat).
- Liquid – 1 cup chicken broth (keeps the dish moist and flavorful).
- Cheese – 8 oz Velveeta (cubed), 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese.
- Spaghetti – 8 oz uncooked spaghetti, broken into thirds.
Optional Add-Ins
- Heat lovers – ½ tsp red pepper flakes.
- Veggies – ½ cup diced bell peppers or mushrooms.
- Protein boost – Shredded rotisserie chicken.
How to Make Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti (Step-by-Step Guide)
1: Prep the Crockpot
- Lightly grease the slow cooker with nonstick spray.
- Place chicken breasts at the bottom.
2: Add the Seasonings & Liquid
- Sprinkle salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika over the chicken.
- Pour in cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, and Rotel tomatoes.
- Add chicken broth to ensure the dish stays moist.
3: Slow Cook the Chicken
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender.
- Once done, use tongs to remove the chicken and shred it using two forks.
4: Stir in Cheese & Chicken
- Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot.
- Stir in Velveeta cheese cubes and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
5: Cook the Spaghetti in the Slow Cooker
- Break spaghetti into thirds and mix it into the sauce.
- Cover and let it cook for 30-40 minutes or until the pasta is tender.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6: Serve & Enjoy!
- Stir well to evenly coat the spaghetti with the cheesy sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or extra Pulled cheese for an extra cheesy finish!
👉 Slow Cooking – Wikipedia – Learn how slow cooking works and why it enhances flavors in dishes like chicken spaghetti.
Part 4: Nutritional Information (Per 100g)
When enjoying crockpot chicken spaghetti, it’s always helpful to know the nutritional breakdown. Here’s a look at what you’re getting per 100g serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 175 kcal |
| Protein | 14g |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Fats | 6g |
| Sodium | 420mg |
Healthier Ingredient Swaps
Want a lighter version? Here are some easy swaps:
- Use whole wheat spaghetti instead of regular pasta for extra fiber.
- Swap Velveeta for reduced-fat cream cheese for a lighter, creamy texture.
- Choose low-sodium broth and soups to reduce salt intake.
Tips & Tricks for the Best Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti
How to Prevent Mushy Pasta
- Add spaghetti only in the last 30-40 minutes of cooking to avoid overcooking.
- Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
Making It Extra Creamy
- Use freshly Pulled cheese instead of pre-packaged shredded cheese. It melts better and gives a smoother texture.
- Adding a splash of milk or heavy cream before serving makes it even richer.
Customizing the Recipe
- Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra texture and nutrients.
- Want some heat? Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
- For more protein, mix in cooked turkey or shredded rotisserie chicken.
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Store Extra food in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk to bring back the creamy texture.
👉 Leftover Rotisserie Chicken Meal Ideas – Great ways to repurpose leftover chicken for more recipes.
FAQs About Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti
Making crockpot chicken spaghetti is simple, but you might still have some questions. Here are answers to the most common ones!
Can you put uncooked pasta in a slow cooker?
Yes! Adding uncooked spaghetti directly to the slow cooker is completely fine. However, make sure to add it during the last 30-40 minutes of cooking to avoid overcooking. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking together.
Can you put raw chicken straight into the slow cooker?
Absolutely! The slow cooker is designed to safely cook raw chicken. As long as you set it to low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, the chicken will cook thoroughly and become tender. If you’re unsure, use a food thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
What all do you put in chicken spaghetti?
A classic crockpot chicken spaghetti includes chicken, spaghetti, a creamy sauce, Rotel tomatoes, cheese, and seasonings. You can also customize it by adding bell peppers, mushrooms, or jalapeños for extra flavor.
Does chicken get more tender the longer it cooks in a slow cooker?
Yes, but only up to a point. Chicken becomes tender when slow-cooked, but overcooking can cause it to dry out. To keep it juicy, stick to the recommended cooking times. If your chicken is done early, shred it and let it sit in the sauce to stay moist.
Storing and Reheating Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti
How to Store Extra food
Got Extra food? Crockpot chicken spaghetti keeps well, making it perfect for meal prep. Here’s how to store it properly:
- Refrigerator: Transfer cooled spaghetti to an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: If you want to save it for longer, freeze it in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. To prevent the pasta from becoming mushy, consider freezing just the sauce and adding freshly cooked spaghetti when reheating.
Best Way to Reheat
Reheating crockpot chicken spaghetti correctly ensures it stays creamy and flavorful. Here’s how:
- Stovetop: Add a splash of chicken broth or milk to a pan, then warm the spaghetti over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Microwave: Place Extra food in a microwave-safe dish, add a little broth or water, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
- Slow Cooker: If reheating a large batch, set your slow cooker to low and stir occasionally until warmed through.
Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti
Bread & Rolls
Pairing crockpot chicken spaghetti with fresh bread enhances the meal. Try these options:
- Garlic bread – Crispy, buttery, and perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
- Dinner rolls – Soft, warm rolls complement the creamy pasta beautifully.
- Cheesy breadsticks – A fun, cheesy side that pairs well with the dish.
Vegetable Sides
Balancing out the richness of crockpot chicken spaghetti with a light veggie side makes the meal even better:
- Steamed broccoli – A simple, healthy option that adds a pop of color and crunch.
- Roasted asparagus – Adds a slightly smoky, crisp contrast to the creamy pasta.
- Side salad – A fresh salad with lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette keeps things refreshing.
Refreshing Drinks
If you want a refreshing drink to pair with your meal, consider lemon-infused water or iced tea for a light and satisfying balance.
Now that you’ve got the perfect meal plan, it’s time to enjoy your delicious crockpot chicken spaghetti! 🍽️
👉 Garlic Cheese Bread Recipe – A perfect cheesy, crispy side for your creamy chicken spaghetti.