This Easy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti is a lifesaver! Chicken, pasta, and a creamy sauce all cook together, making a warm and hearty meal with minimal effort.
With just a few ingredients tossed in the slow cooker, it’s perfect for those busy nights when you want dinner ready without the fuss. I love coming home to such deliciousness waiting for me!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: I love using rotisserie chicken for its convenience and flavor. If you have leftover chicken, that works too! If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you could replace it with white beans or chickpeas for added protein.
Spaghetti Noodles: Traditional spaghetti is great, but you can use any pasta you have on hand—like penne or even gluten-free pasta if needed. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly.
Cream Soups: The cream of mushroom and cream of chicken soups create a rich base. You can opt for lower-fat versions or even homemade alternatives if you’re watching your diet. For a dairy-free option, try coconut cream as a substitute.
Cheddar Cheese: I recommend sharp cheddar for added flavor. If you want a different taste, feel free to use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even vegan cheese if you’re dairy-free!
How Do I Cook Spaghetti Perfectly in the Slow Cooker?
The key to perfectly cooked spaghetti in the slow cooker is not stirring it in the beginning. This allows the noodles to absorb flavors without becoming mushy. Here’s how to get it right:
- After combining the soups and broth, place your chicken on top and lay the broken spaghetti noodles over it.
- To keep them submerged, lightly press the noodles down into the liquid but don’t stir. This helps with even cooking!
- Cooking on low for 3 to 4 hours usually yields great results. Check for tenderness; if it’s still firm, let it go a bit longer.
15 minutes before serving, gently stir the mixture to combine and melt in the cheese for a creamy texture. Enjoy your meals without the stress!
Easy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 8 oz spaghetti noodles, broken in half
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti takes about 10 minutes to prep, and once you toss everything into the slow cooker, it needs 3 to 4 hours on low to cook. So, in total, you’re looking at around 4 to 4.5 hours from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Slow Cooker:
Start by spraying your slow cooker insert with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. This little step makes cleanup so much easier!
2. Mix the Base Ingredients:
In the bottom of the crockpot, combine the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir so everything is well mixed
3. Add Vegetables (Optional):
If you’re using them, add the finely chopped onion and diced bell pepper to the mixture. These will add extra flavor and nutrition!
4. Layer the Chicken:
Now it’s time to layer your shredded chicken evenly over the sauce mixture. This allows all the flavors to meld together!
5. Add the Spaghetti:
Finally, layer the broken spaghetti noodles on top of the chicken and sauce. Gently press them down into the liquid without stirring to keep the noodles from clumping together.
6. Cook it Up:
Cover your slow cooker and set it to low. Let it cook for about 3 to 4 hours, or until the noodles are tender and have absorbed all that delicious flavor.
7. Final Touch:
About 15 minutes before serving, stir the mixture gently to combine everything. Then, sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese and mix until it’s melted and creamy.
8. Warm It Through:
Before serving, turn the slow cooker to warm, cover, and let it sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Scoop out generous portions of your comforting chicken spaghetti into bowls. Top with extra cheddar cheese if desired. Enjoy your one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights!
This recipe is not just easy but also oh-so-delicious. Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just ensure that the frozen chicken is fully thawed before using it. You can thaw chicken overnight in the fridge or quickly by submerging it in a sealed plastic bag in cold water. Once thawed, shred it to add to your crockpot.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything the night before by combining the base ingredients and chicken in the slow cooker, then cover and refrigerate. In the morning, just set your slow cooker to low and let it cook while you’re busy with your day!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For reheating, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through, adding a little bit of broth or water if it seems dry.
Can I Substitute the Pasta?
Definitely! You can use any type of pasta you like, such as penne, rotini, or even gluten-free pasta. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as different pastas may require slightly different cooking durations. Always check until they’re tender!
