This Easy Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti is a dream come true! Tender chicken, creamy sauce, and spaghetti come together in your slow cooker for a cozy meal.
The best part? You just toss everything in and let it do its thing! I love coming home to a warm dinner that’s ready to serve. It’s like a big hug on a plate! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: For the best results, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. If you want a more intense flavor, chicken thighs are a great alternative; they’re a bit juicier and more forgiving during cooking!
Pasta: Spaghetti is a classic choice, but feel free to swap it with another type like fettuccine or penne. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary based on the pasta shape.
Cream Soups: I prefer using both cream of mushroom and cream of chicken for a balance of flavors. If you’re looking for a healthier option, there are low-fat versions or you could use a homemade white sauce instead.
Cheeses: Cheddar cheese adds a delicious sharpness. For a twist, try mixing in mozzarella for a stretchier texture or pepper jack for a bit of heat!
How Do I Make Sure the Chicken Stays Tender?
Cooking chicken in a crockpot is perfect for keeping it juicy and tender, but here are some tips to avoid dryness:
- Always ensure there’s enough liquid in the crockpot. The chicken should be covered but not drowning.
- Shred the chicken right when it’s done cooking. This keeps it moist as it rests in the sauce.
- Cook at a low temperature if you have the time; longer cooking times allow for deeper flavors.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have perfectly tender chicken for your creamy spaghetti every time!
Easy Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 12 oz spaghetti pasta (broken in half)
- 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 cup chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 15 minutes for prep. After that, you’ll need to cook it in the crockpot; about 5-6 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Total time is around 5-6 hours, giving you plenty of time to relax while it cooks!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. This will allow them to soak up all the flavors as they cook.
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, chopped onion, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Give it a good mix until everything is blended well!
3. Pour Over the Chicken:
Now, take your soup mixture and pour it evenly over the chicken in the crockpot. Make sure all the chicken is covered with this creamy goodness!
4. Cook the Chicken:
Cover the crockpot and let it cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 3-4 hours. You want the chicken to be fully cooked and tender, just waiting to be shredded!
5. Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is ready, carefully remove it from the crockpot and use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. It’s so tender that it will fall apart easily!
6. Add the Spaghetti:
Break the spaghetti in half and add it to the crockpot. Stir gently to mix it with the chicken and creamy sauce, making sure the pasta gets coated.
7. Stir in the Cream and Cheese:
Dot the softened cream cheese over the spaghetti, then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top. This will make everything even creamier!
8. Finish Cooking:
Cover the crockpot again and cook on high for an additional 20-30 minutes. This will allow the spaghetti to cook through and the cheese to melt beautifully. Stir halfway through to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom.
9. Taste and Adjust:
Give your dish a taste and add in any extra salt and pepper if you think it needs it. A little adjustment can make a big difference!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor. Serve it up, and enjoy a creamy, comforting bowl of chicken spaghetti straight from your crockpot!
This dish is perfect for busy days or cozy family dinners. Enjoy every bite! 🍽️
FAQ for Easy Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti
Can I Use Frozen Chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to cook it on high for 4-5 hours instead of low, as it may require a bit more cooking time to ensure it reaches the safe internal temperature.
What Can I Substitute for Cream Soups?
If you want to avoid canned soups, you can make your own creamy sauce! Combine 1 cup of sour cream or Greek yogurt with 1 cup of chicken broth and seasonings to taste. This will give you a similar creamy consistency!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat on the stove over low heat to maintain creaminess, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen the sauce.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or spinach. Just chop them into small pieces and add them during the last hour of cooking to keep them crisp and vibrant!
