If you are looking for a comforting, easy-to-make dish that will quickly become a family favorite, I can’t recommend enough this Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti Recipe. It’s a luscious mix of tender chicken, cheesy goodness, and perfectly cooked spaghetti all mingling in a slow cooker to create a dish that feels like a warm hug on your plate. Whether you’re juggling busy weeknights or craving a dish that effortlessly feeds a crowd, this recipe is a total game-changer.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti Recipe truly starts with its simple, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a vital role, from adding creaminess and flavor to balancing textures and colors that make the dish so irresistible.
- 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts: The tender, protein-packed base that soaks up all those wonderful flavors.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: Adds smooth creaminess and rich depth to the sauce.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup: Brings an earthy undertone that complements the chicken beautifully.
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies (undrained): Gives a mild kick and a pop of vibrant color.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Keeps everything moist and melds the flavors seamlessly.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a subtle pungency without overpowering the dish.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory base with mild sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds smoky warmth and a beautiful hue.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Delivers just the right touch of heat and complexity.
- 8 ounces cream cheese (cubed): Melts into a silky, dreamy sauce that binds everything together.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Brings sharpness and ooey-gooey texture that everyone loves.
- 12 ounces uncooked spaghetti noodles (broken in half): The satisfying carb base that absorbs all that luscious sauce.
- Salt to taste: Enhances all the flavors perfectly.
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh, colorful finish to brighten every bite.
How to Make Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot—it’s the star that will soak up every delicious flavor. Then, add the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, Rotel tomatoes, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Give it a gentle stir to bring everything together around the chicken. This careful layering ensures each bite gets that perfect balance of creaminess and spice.
Step 2: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover your crockpot and set it to low for 5 to 6 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. As the cooking time unfolds, the chicken will become incredibly tender and infused with all those seasonings. There’s something incredibly satisfying about walking away and coming back to this mouthwatering aroma filling your kitchen.
Step 3: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is tender, remove it from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. This shredding step creates those perfect little tender pieces that will mingle beautifully with the creamy sauce. Return the shredded chicken back to the crockpot to join the flavors in harmony.
Step 4: Make It Creamy and Cheesy
Add the cubed cream cheese to the crockpot and stir until it melts into a smooth, rich sauce. Then, sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese and mix until it’s all perfectly combined. This step transforms the dish into the ultimate comfort food, with a velvety, cheesy texture that clings to every strand of spaghetti.
Step 5: Cook the Spaghetti
While your sauce is finishing, cook the spaghetti noodles according to package instructions until they are just al dente. This ensures they’ll hold their texture and won’t get mushy during the final slow cooker phase. Once drained, add the noodles directly into the crockpot, stirring carefully so every strand is coated with that creamy sauce.
Step 6: Finish Cooking and Adjust Seasoning
Let everything cook together on low for another 15 to 20 minutes until heated through and wonderfully creamy. Don’t forget to taste and adjust salt if needed—it’s the final touch that makes this Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti Recipe shine.
How to Serve Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped parsley brings a cheerful burst of green that not only looks beautiful but adds a subtle fresh flavor that balances the richness of the dish. Feel free to add a sprinkle of extra cheddar on top if you’re a cheese lover like me!
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans, or even some crusty garlic bread. The fresh, crunchy sides provide a lovely contrast to the creamy texture and make the entire meal feel perfectly balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti Recipe in individual mini cast iron skillets or oven-safe dishes and broil a little extra cheese on top for a bubbly, golden crust. For a fun twist, scatter some toasted breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan over the top just before serving for added crunch and flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover chicken spaghetti stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making it just as delicious the next day—perfect for quick lunches or reheated dinners.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this recipe freezes well. Pack the cooled chicken spaghetti tightly in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water as needed to restore that creamy consistency. Take your time reheating on low to prevent drying out, and stir occasionally to keep every bite luscious.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Using cooked rotisserie chicken is a wonderful shortcut that cuts down cooking time significantly. Just add the chicken later in the cooking process when the other ingredients are already heated through, and adjust timing accordingly.
What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup? Can I skip it?
You can definitely substitute the cream of mushroom soup with another can of cream of chicken soup or even use cream of celery for variation. This swap will slightly change the flavor profile but still keep the dish wonderfully creamy.
Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?
To lighten things up, use reduced-fat cream cheeses and cheeses, and swap regular cream soups for homemade versions or low-sodium alternatives. Adding extra vegetables like spinach or mushrooms boosts the nutritional value without compromising flavor.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the ingredients in the crockpot insert the night before, refrigerate it, and then cook it in the morning or when you’re ready. Just be sure to cook thoroughly since the ingredients start cold.
What type of cheddar cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar cheese adds the best flavor with its tangy, bold bite, but mild cheddar works well if you prefer a subtler cheese flavor. Mixing both can also create a lovely balance.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti Recipe is a true winner, bringing effortless comfort and rich, cheesy satisfaction to your dinner table. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this dish as much as I do—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that makes life easier and meals happier.
Print
Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
This creamy crockpot chicken spaghetti is a comforting and easy-to-make meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken breasts slow-cooked with a blend of creamy soups, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and flavorful spices, combined with melted cream cheese and cheddar, create a rich and satisfying sauce. Tossed with al dente spaghetti noodles, this one-pot slow cooker dinner is both kid-friendly and delicious.
Ingredients
Chicken and Sauce
- 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies (undrained)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Cheeses
- 8 ounces cream cheese (cubed)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Pasta and Garnish
- 12 ounces uncooked spaghetti noodles (broken in half)
- Salt to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker Base: Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot. Add the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies (undrained), chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Gently stir to combine the ingredients around the chicken without removing the chicken from the base.
- Cook the Chicken: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender enough to shred with forks.
- Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the crockpot and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot, mixing it evenly with the cooking juices and soups.
- Add Cream Cheese and Cheddar: Add the cubed cream cheese to the crockpot and stir until it melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth. Then, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until well combined and creamy.
- Cook the Spaghetti: While the cheese melts in the crockpot, cook the spaghetti noodles according to package instructions until just al dente. Drain well.
- Combine Pasta with Sauce: Add the drained spaghetti noodles to the crockpot and stir thoroughly to coat the noodles with the creamy chicken sauce.
- Final Heat-Through: Cook on low for another 15-20 minutes to warm everything through, allowing flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Season and Serve: Taste the dish and add salt as needed. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired before serving hot.
Notes
- Substitute the cream of mushroom soup with an additional can of cream of chicken soup for a different flavor profile.
- Use shredded rotisserie chicken to save cooking time instead of slow cooking chicken breasts.
- Enhance the dish by adding sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra vegetables and nutrition.
