If you have been searching for a comforting, hearty meal that practically makes itself, you are going to fall head over heels for this Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti Recipe. Picture tender, flavorful chicken slow-cooked with a luscious blend of creams, spices, and a touch of zing from diced tomatoes and chilies. Then, all of that goodness gets enveloped by perfectly cooked spaghetti, creating a dish that tastes like a warm hug on a plate. This recipe is easy enough for a busy weeknight and impressive enough for company, making it an absolute keeper in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti Recipe lies in the simplicity yet richness of the ingredients. Each one adds its unique flair: from the tender chicken breasts that soak up flavors, to the creamy soups that give the sauce its silky texture, and the cheeses that bring gooey, dreamy decadence.
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein, providing a tender base that takes on the rich flavors of the sauce.
- 10 oz can Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies): Adds a subtle spicy kick and brightens the dish with color and texture.
- 10.5 oz can cream of chicken soup: Brings creamy body and savory depth to the sauce.
- 10.5 oz can cream of mushroom soup: Adds an earthy richness and enhances the overall creaminess.
- 0.5 cup chicken broth: Keeps the sauce perfectly moist without watering it down.
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a gentle garlic flavor that complements the chicken.
- 0.5 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a sweet, aromatic base note.
- 0.5 teaspoon paprika (optional): A hint of smokiness that really rounds out the flavor profile.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning all the layers of the dish.
- 8 oz cream cheese, cubed: The key to achieving that irresistible creamy texture.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided): Melts into every bite for cheesy comfort, with some reserved for a melty topping.
- 12 oz spaghetti, cooked al dente: Holds up beautifully under the creamy sauce without getting mushy.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter: For cooking the spaghetti to perfection.
- Fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh, vibrant note and a pop of color when serving.
How to Make Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Season and Prep the Chicken
Begin by placing those beautiful chicken breasts right into the bottom of your crockpot. Season them generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and if you like a tiny bit of warmth, sprinkle on the paprika too. This seasoning step is crucial because it sets the flavor foundation that’ll infuse the entire dish.
Step 2: Layer the Sauces and Tomatoes
Next, gently pour in the Rotel, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, and chicken broth on top of your seasoned chicken. The layering helps everything cook evenly and lets the flavors meld slowly to create a rich and complex sauce.
Step 3: Set It and Forget It Cooking
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for about 6 hours, or if pressed for time, on high for 3 to 4 hours. While the crockpot does its magic, you can relax knowing this dish is developing incredible depth.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
When the cooking is complete, take out the chicken breasts and use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. The chicken will be juicy and tender, perfect to mix back into the creamy sauce.
Step 5: Add the Cheeses
Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot, then add the cubed cream cheese plus 1.5 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything well and continue cooking for another 15 to 20 minutes until the cheeses are fully melted, creating that signature creamy texture.
Step 6: Cook the Spaghetti
While the cheese melts, prepare your spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water. Cook it until just al dente, which means it’s tender but still has a slight bite—this prevents it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.
Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Drain the spaghetti and add it directly into the crockpot with the creamy chicken mixture. Stir until every strand is coated with that incredible sauce—this is when the dish really comes together beautifully.
Step 8: Melt the Final Cheese Topping
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the spaghetti, cover again, and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes. The cheese melts into a golden, gooey layer that makes every bite truly irresistible.
Step 9: Serve and Garnish
Dish out the Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti piping hot. For a fresh finish, sprinkle some chopped parsley and add a touch more black pepper if you like. This final touch brightens the dish and makes it look as delicious as it tastes.
How to Serve Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh chopped parsley not only brings a burst of green that looks stunning but also adds a mild herbal freshness to balance the rich creaminess. You can also offer extra cracked black pepper or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for those who want a little heat.
Side Dishes
This dish is quite hearty on its own, so fresh, simple sides work best. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette or a steamed medley of vegetables like broccoli and carrots would perfectly complement the creamy pasta. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is also fantastic for mopping up every last bit of sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For entertaining, try serving the Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti Recipe in individual ramekins or small cast-iron skillets, then broil them briefly for a bubbly golden top. Alternatively, layering it in a large casserole dish and topping with extra cheese before broiling gives a restaurant-style finish that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let the Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep beautifully for up to 4 days, making it a perfect option for easy meals later in the week.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well, too! Portion the leftovers into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. For best results, reheat gently thawed portions rather than freezing and reheating fresh meals.
Reheating
To reheat, warm individual servings in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. Adding a splash of chicken broth or milk helps loosen the sauce and keeps it creamy and smooth without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional here, other long pasta like linguine or fettuccine work beautifully. Even short pasta shapes like penne or rotini will hold the sauce nicely.
Is there a way to make this recipe spicier?
Definitely. You can increase the amount of Rotel with green chilies or add fresh diced jalapeños during cooking. A pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce also amps up the heat to your liking.
Can I substitute the cream soups with homemade alternatives?
Yes, you can make your own creamy base using a homemade white sauce. Just be sure it’s well-seasoned and thick enough to give that signature creamy texture. This is a great option for those avoiding canned products.
How can I make this recipe lighter?
To lighten this dish, use reduced-fat cream cheese and soups, or swap out some of the cheddar for part-skim mozzarella. You can also add extra vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to bulk it up without extra calories.
Is it okay to use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, but keep in mind the cooking time may need to be increased slightly. Always check that the chicken is fully cooked before shredding it to ensure food safety.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly special about coming home to the enticing aroma of a warm Crockpot meal, and this Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti Recipe checks every box for comfort, flavor, and ease. It’s truly the perfect cozy meal that brings everyone to the table with smiles and full bellies. Don’t hesitate to give it a try—you might just find your new family favorite!
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 Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti is a comforting and easy-to-make casserole that combines tender slow-cooked chicken with a rich, cheesy sauce and perfectly cooked spaghetti. Cooked low and slow in a crockpot, this dish melds flavors beautifully and requires minimal hands-on time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
Protein
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Vegetables & Canned Goods
- 10 oz can Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies)
- 0.5 cup chicken broth
Dairy
- 8 oz cream cheese, cubed
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 10.5 oz can cream of chicken soup
- 10.5 oz can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
Seasonings
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
- 0.5 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Pasta
- 12 oz spaghetti, cooked al dente
Garnish
- Fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot and season generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and optional paprika for a subtle kick.
- Add canned ingredients and broth: Layer the Rotel, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, and chicken broth over the seasoned chicken in the crockpot.
- Cook the chicken: Cover and cook on low for about 6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to become tender.
- Shred the chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the crockpot and shred them into bite-sized pieces using two forks.
- Add cheeses and combine: Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot, add cubed cream cheese and 1.5 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, then stir well. Cook for an additional 15–20 minutes until the cheeses melt and combine into a creamy sauce.
- Cook the spaghetti: While the sauce is finishing, boil a pot of salted water and cook the spaghetti until al dente, then drain.
- Mix spaghetti with sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the crockpot with the creamy chicken mixture and stir until all the pasta is well coated.
- Top with remaining cheddar cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 0.5 cups of cheddar cheese over the top, cover, and let it sit for 5-10 minutes to melt the cheese completely.
- Serve: Spoon out the creamy chicken spaghetti onto plates and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of black pepper, if desired.
Notes
- You can add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of Rotel or add chili powder.
- For a lower fat version, use reduced-fat cream cheese and cheddar cheese.
- Make sure to cook the spaghetti just until al dente to avoid overcooking when mixed with the sauce.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
