Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti

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I still remember the first time I tossed this Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti together on a hectic weeknight. I had no plan, only a vague craving for something creamy and comforting. As the house filled with the scent of tender chicken and bubbling cheese, I knew I was on to something. The first bite confirmed it—it was a keeper.

There’s something magical about the slow cooker when it comes to making pasta dishes. Everything simmers slowly, blending flavors deeply, while you go about your day. This recipe is especially close to my heart because it turns simple ingredients into something so rich and satisfying, with hardly any effort. And let’s not even get started on that creamy, velvety cheese sauce!

Whenever I’m looking to serve a dish that pleases everyone—kids, picky eaters, guests—this Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti never lets me down. It’s that dependable go-to you crave after a long day. If you love creamy chicken dishes, you might also fall in love with my Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts or try the irresistibly rich Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta. For another cheesy comfort fix, don’t miss my Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta with Spinach.

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti

This recipe ticks every box. It’s incredibly easy to prepare with pantry staples, and the crockpot does all the heavy lifting. The chicken cooks to juicy perfection while soaking in all the cheesy goodness. It’s perfect for busy days, meal preps, or when you just need that bowl of ultra-comforting, creamy pasta. Plus, it reheats beautifully, making it ideal for leftovers. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend indulgence, this dish brings that cozy, made-with-love feeling to the table every time.

Ingredients

Chicken breasts: These are the heart of the dish. They cook down to tender, pull-apart perfection in the slow cooker, absorbing all the creamy and cheesy flavor.

Spaghetti: The classic base that binds everything together. It’s soft, comforting, and perfect for soaking up the sauce.

Cream cheese: This adds that luscious, rich, and slightly tangy creaminess that makes the sauce irresistible.

Cheddar cheese: A must for sharp, melty, golden goodness throughout the spaghetti.

Rotel tomatoes (diced tomatoes with green chilies): They provide a punch of flavor and a subtle spice that balances the richness of the cheese.

Cream of chicken soup: It forms the base of the sauce and blends smoothly with the cheese and seasonings to make everything extra comforting.

Chicken broth: This keeps the mixture moist and adds depth to the overall flavor.

Onion and garlic powder: Essential aromatics that infuse the whole dish with warm, savory notes.

Salt and black pepper: These simple seasonings bring all the flavors together.

Parsley (optional): For a pop of freshness and color just before serving.

How to Make Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti

Step 1: Prep the Base

Place the raw chicken breasts in your crockpot. Add cream of chicken soup, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and cream cheese. Pour in chicken broth and season with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Cook Low and Slow

Set your slow cooker to low and let everything cook for about 6 hours. The chicken should be tender and easy to shred.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

Once the chicken is fully cooked, use two forks to shred it right in the crockpot. Stir well to mix the chicken with the creamy sauce.

Step 4: Add the Spaghetti

Break the spaghetti noodles in half and add them directly to the crockpot. Make sure they’re fully submerged in the sauce. Cover and cook on high for 20 to 30 minutes, stirring once or twice until the noodles are cooked.

Step 5: Stir in the Cheese

Once the pasta is tender, add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth to loosen it up.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Sprinkle fresh parsley on top before serving if desired. Dish it up hot and creamy straight from the crockpot.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

Instead of spaghetti, you can use penne or rotini if that’s what you have in your pantry. For a low-carb version, swap in spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles after the chicken is cooked. Want to kick up the heat? Use a spicier version of Rotel or add red pepper flakes. You can also substitute mozzarella or pepper jack for the cheddar, depending on the flavor profile you’re going for. And if cream of chicken soup isn’t your thing, try cream of mushroom or even a homemade roux.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This dish is hearty on its own, but it also shines alongside a crisp green salad with vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a soft dinner roll makes a delicious side for scooping up every last bit of that cheesy sauce. For drinks, a chilled glass of white wine or a light sparkling beverage pairs wonderfully with the creamy, cheesy texture.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For reheating, microwave individual portions with a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen up the sauce. You can also reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. This dish is not ideal for freezing due to the dairy content, which can separate upon thawing.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken in Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti?

Yes, you can. Simply reduce the cooking time to about 2 hours on low and skip the shredding step.

How spicy is Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti?

That depends on your choice of Rotel. The original version adds mild heat. For more spice, go with hot Rotel or add red pepper flakes.

Can I make Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prepare the sauce and chicken mixture the night before, refrigerate it in the crockpot insert, and start it the next day.

What type of pasta works best in Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti?

Spaghetti is classic, but any long pasta like linguine or fettuccine, or short shapes like penne, can also be used effectively.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you enjoyed this one-pot comfort meal, you might also like One-Pan Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta for another cozy dinner idea or try Old Fashioned Spaghetti with Hearty Meat Sauce for a classic twist.

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