This Easy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti is perfect for those busy nights. Just toss chicken, pasta, and sauce into the slow cooker, and let it do all the work for you!
You’ll love how the chicken gets tender and the pasta soaks up the tasty sauce. I always make a big batch—leftovers for lunch? Yes, please! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe, as they become tender in the slow cooker. You can also use thighs for richer flavor, or even rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
Pasta: While spaghetti is traditional here, you can substitute it with other types of pasta like penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta if needed. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as some pasta may cook faster.
Soups: The cream of mushroom and cream of chicken soups add creaminess. If you prefer, you could use a different cream soup or make your own from scratch with heavy cream or a roux for a healthier spin.
Pasta Sauce: Choose your favorite pasta sauce for flavor. If you want, you can use homemade marinara or a jar of Alfredo sauce for a creamy twist. Adjust seasonings based on the sauce you pick!
How Do I Ensure the Pasta Cooks Perfectly in the Crockpot?
Cooking pasta in a slow cooker can be tricky, but here’s how to do it right! Make sure to add the uncooked pasta about 30 minutes before you plan to serve. This allows it to absorb the sauce without overcooking. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and if it’s looking dry, add a splash of broth or water.
- Break the spaghetti into halves or thirds before adding it to the crockpot.
- Mix it in gently with the chicken and sauce to ensure it’s submerged.
- Check for doneness after 20-30 minutes on HIGH; you want it tender but not mushy!
Easy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 16 oz spaghetti pasta (uncooked)
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 jar (14 oz) of your favorite pasta sauce (e.g., marinara)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, diced (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and between 4-5 hours of cooking on LOW, or 2-3 hours on HIGH in your crockpot. It’s perfect for busy days since you can set it and forget it until dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. This will be the base for all the wonderful flavors you’re going to add!
2. Make the Sauce Mixture:
In a separate bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, pasta sauce, and chicken broth. Add the finely chopped onion, diced bell pepper (if you’re using it), minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
3. Combine in the Crockpot:
Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the crockpot, ensuring the chicken is well covered. Cover the pot and set it to cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or on HIGH for 2-3 hours. The chicken is done when it’s tender and easily shreds with a fork.
4. Shred the Chicken:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, take out the chicken breasts and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and mix it back into the sauce.
5. Add the Spaghetti:
Now it’s time to add the uncooked spaghetti! Break the pasta into halves or thirds and stir it into the crockpot, making sure it’s submerged in the sauce. If it looks a bit dry, feel free to add a splash more broth or water.
6. Cook the Pasta:
Cover the crockpot and cook on HIGH for another 20-30 minutes or until the pasta is tender. Be sure to stir it occasionally to prevent sticking.
7. Add Cheese:
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese until everything is melted and well combined. Save the remaining ½ cup of cheese for topping.
8. Final Touch:
Switch the crockpot to LOW, sprinkle the leftover cheese on top, and cover for about 5-10 minutes until that cheese gets melty and delicious!
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Garnish your hearty dish with fresh parsley or basil if you’d like, then dig in and enjoy your comforting Easy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! However, make sure to allow for additional cooking time—about 1 extra hour on LOW or 30 minutes on HIGH. Always ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
Can I Substitute the Pasta with Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Options?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta can be used for a healthier option. For gluten-free, select a pasta that cooks similarly and adjust the cooking time based on package instructions, as some gluten-free pasta cooks more quickly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
What Can I Serve with Chicken Spaghetti?
This dish is delicious on its own, but you can pair it with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables to make it a complete meal. Enjoy! 😊
