Let me tell you about my absolute favorite go-to dinner for those crazy busy nights: crockpot chicken spaghetti. Seriously, this dish is a lifesaver! I can toss everything into the crockpot in just 15 minutes, and then I get to forget about it while it works its magic. The tender chicken, rich sauce, and perfectly cooked spaghetti come together for a meal that’s not only comforting but also downright delicious. My family adores it, and I love that it makes my life easier. Plus, there’s something so satisfying about coming home to that warm, inviting aroma filling the kitchen. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a family favorite too!
Ingredients List
- 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) of diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 8 ounces of uncooked spaghetti
- 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
How to Prepare Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti
Alright, let’s dive into the magic of making this crockpot chicken spaghetti! It’s super simple, and I promise you’ll be amazed at how effortlessly it all comes together.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
First things first, grab those 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts and place them right into your crockpot. Make sure they’re evenly distributed at the bottom—this way, they’ll cook more evenly. If you want to be extra fancy, you can sprinkle a little salt and pepper on top to give it a head start on flavor!
Step 2: Add the Sauce Ingredients
Now, let’s make it saucy! Pour in that can of cream of mushroom soup, and then add the diced tomatoes with green chilies and the chicken broth. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and garlic powder. Give everything a good stir to combine those flavors; it’s like a cozy hug for your chicken!
Step 3: Cooking Process
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for about 6 hours or high for 3 hours. Here’s the key: you want that chicken to be so tender that it practically shreds itself! If you can poke it with a fork and it falls apart, you’re golden. Timing is everything here—so don’t rush it!
Step 4: Incorporate the Spaghetti
Once the chicken is ready, it’s time to stir in the uncooked spaghetti. Just break it in half if it doesn’t fit and mix it well with everything else. Cover the crockpot again and let it cook for an additional 30 minutes on low. This will allow the spaghetti to soak up all those yummy flavors and cook to perfection!
Step 5: Add Cheese
Finally, stir in that glorious cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. It’s the finishing touch that adds creaminess and richness! Give it a good mix, put the lid back on, and let it melt into that beautiful sauce. You’ll want to serve it up warm, and trust me, everyone will be coming back for seconds!
Tips for Success
To get the most out of your crockpot chicken spaghetti, there are a few handy tips I like to keep in mind! First, be careful not to overcook the chicken; it should be tender, but not dry. Keeping an eye on the cooking time is crucial! If you’re in a hurry, the high setting will work just fine, but the low setting really allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Also, when adding your uncooked spaghetti, make sure it’s well submerged in the sauce. This helps it cook evenly and absorb all those delicious flavors. And don’t forget to give it a good stir before adding the cheese to ensure every bite is cheesy and satisfying! Trust me, these little details make a big difference in getting that perfect comfort meal!
Nutritional Information
So, let’s talk about the numbers behind this delicious crockpot chicken spaghetti. Knowing the nutritional info can help you make informed choices while enjoying this comforting meal. Here’s what you can expect per serving:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 30g
Keep in mind that these are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But with this balance of protein, carbs, and a touch of fat, you’re getting a hearty dish that’s still family-friendly and satisfying! Enjoy every bite without a second thought!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! You can swap out spaghetti for other types of pasta like penne or fusilli, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly. Shorter pastas generally cook faster, so you might want to add them to the crockpot a little later, maybe about 15 minutes before serving. Just make sure to check for doneness; you want it al dente but not mushy!
How do I store leftovers?
Storing leftovers is super easy! Just let the crockpot chicken spaghetti cool down a bit, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. If you find it a bit thick after refrigerating, don’t hesitate to add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up a bit!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You bet! This dish is perfect for making ahead. You can prep everything the night before, putting all the ingredients in the crockpot insert, then store it in the fridge. In the morning, just pop it in the slow cooker and set it to cook. You might want to adjust the cooking time slightly if it’s starting out cold, so keep an eye on it. It’s a fantastic way to have a hot, comforting meal waiting for you after a long day!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can set it and forget it!
- Minimal Cleanup: One pot does it all, making cleanup a breeze—just toss the insert in the dishwasher!
- Family-Friendly Flavors: The creamy sauce and tender chicken are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish keeps well, making it a fantastic option for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.
- Comforting & Satisfying: It’s the kind of meal that wraps you in a warm hug after a long day.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or seasonings to make it your own!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got your delicious crockpot chicken spaghetti ready to go, let’s talk about the perfect sides to round out your meal! I love pairing this comforting dish with a fresh, vibrant salad. A simple mixed greens salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette adds a lovely crunch and balance to the creamy pasta.
If you’re in the mood for something warm, garlic bread is a classic choice! The buttery, garlicky goodness is perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce. You can even make it a little fancy by sprinkling some parsley on top before serving!
For a healthier option, steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans not only add color to your plate but also a nutritious boost. Just a touch of lemon juice or a sprinkle of parmesan can elevate them even more.
And if you want to really impress, consider serving a side of roasted veggies tossed in olive oil and herbs. They bring a delightful caramelization that contrasts beautifully with the softness of the spaghetti. Whatever you choose, these sides will complement your crockpot chicken spaghetti beautifully and create a comforting, satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your delicious crockpot chicken spaghetti is super easy, and with a few simple steps, you can enjoy those flavors again later! Once your meal has cooled down a bit, transfer the leftovers into an airtight container. Make sure to get all those delightful bits of chicken and spaghetti in there—no one likes to waste a tasty bite!
You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to save it for longer, feel free to freeze it! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container, and it should hold up well for about 2 to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
For reheating, I find that the microwave is the quickest method—just pop it in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a lid or a damp paper towel to keep moisture in, and heat it up in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until it’s warmed through. If you prefer the stovetop, simply add a splash of chicken broth or water to a skillet over medium heat and stir until everything is heated evenly. This helps keep the texture creamy and prevents it from drying out.
Whichever method you choose, just watch for that warm, inviting aroma to fill your kitchen again—it’ll be just like the first time!
Print
Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti: 5 Steps to Comforting Bliss
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Crockpot chicken spaghetti is a comforting and convenient meal. It combines tender chicken, pasta, and a flavorful sauce for an easy dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds of chicken breasts
- 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) of diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup of chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 8 ounces of spaghetti
- 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in the crockpot.
- Add cream of mushroom soup, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
- Shred the chicken with two forks.
- Add uncooked spaghetti and stir to combine.
- Cover and cook for an additional 30 minutes on low.
- Stir in mozzarella cheese until melted.
Notes
- Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- You can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts if preferred.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: crockpot chicken spaghetti, easy chicken dinner, slow cooker recipes