Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti
Introduction
Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti is the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. This creamy, cheesy pasta dish combines tender slow-cooked chicken with flavorful tomatoes, spices, and melted cheese for a hearty family meal. Using a slow cooker makes preparation simple while delivering rich, satisfying flavor with minimal effort.
Description
This dish features juicy shredded chicken simmered in a creamy sauce made from cream of chicken soup, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and savory seasonings. Broken spaghetti cooks right in the crockpot, absorbing all the delicious flavors. The result is a creamy, cheesy, mildly zesty pasta casserole-style meal that’s warm, filling, and comforting.
Ingredients Quantity
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
8 oz spaghetti, broken in half
1 can cream of chicken soup
1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup cream cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Prepare the Crockpot:
Lightly spray the slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray.
Add the Chicken:
Place chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot.
Add Liquids & Seasoning:
Pour in cream of chicken soup, diced tomatoes with green chilies (including juice), chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir gently.
Cook the Chicken:
Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until chicken is tender and fully cooked.
Shred the Chicken:
Remove chicken, shred with two forks, and return to the crockpot.
Add Pasta & Cheese:
Stir in broken spaghetti, cheddar cheese, and cream cheese. Make sure pasta is submerged in liquid.
Final Cook:
Cover and cook on HIGH for 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and cheese is melted.
Serve:
Stir well and serve hot.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Chicken spaghetti is a beloved Southern comfort dish, especially popular in Texas and across the American South. It combines Italian-inspired pasta with creamy American casserole flavors. Over time, families adapted the recipe for convenience, leading to crockpot versions that make busy weeknight cooking easier while preserving the comforting essence of the original baked dish. It’s often served at potlucks, church gatherings, and family dinners.
Optional Additions
Diced bell peppers or onions
Mushrooms for extra depth
Red pepper flakes for heat
Monterey Jack or mozzarella cheese
Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
Tips for Success
Avoid overcooking the pasta—check tenderness at 30 minutes.
Stir occasionally after adding spaghetti to prevent sticking.
If mixture thickens too much, add a splash of warm chicken broth.
Use freshly shredded cheese for smoother melting.
For extra creaminess, add an additional ¼ cup cream cheese.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
Calories: 450–550
Protein: 30–35g
Fat: 20–28g
Carbohydrates: 35–45g
Sodium: 700–900mg
Values vary depending on portion size and specific brands used.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
To make this dish lighter, consider using reduced-fat cream cheese, low-sodium soup and broth, or whole-grain spaghetti. Pair with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness while still enjoying its creamy comfort.
Conclusion
Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti is a warm, hearty meal that brings together ease and flavor in one pot. Creamy, cheesy, and satisfying, it’s a dependable recipe for busy families and cozy evenings alike.
Recommendation
Serve with garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete meal. It’s ideal for meal prep, leftovers, and gatherings.
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