Bubbling with creamy cheese, packed with tender chicken, and kissed with the tang of tomatoes and green chiles, Crock Pot Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti is the kind of comforting dinner that puts smiles on every face at your table. Set-it-and-forget-it easy, this recipe is as beloved by busy cooks as it is by hungry eaters!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Comfort: Just toss it all in the crock pot, and come home to a bubbling, cheesy masterpiece with zero fuss.
- Family-Favorite Flavor: The blend of savory chicken, rich cheese, and a hint of spice makes this Crock Pot Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti an instant winner with kids and adults alike.
- Feeds a Crowd: Whether you’re hosting friends or feeding a hungry family, this recipe makes a hearty batch that’s perfect for sharing (and leftovers taste even better!).
- Super Adaptable: It’s easy to make dairy-free, gluten-free, or spice it up—so everyone leaves the table happy!
Ingredients You’ll Need
You don’t need a long shopping list for Crock Pot Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti—just some pantry staples, a handful of fresh items, and a craving for something soul-satisfyingly cheesy! Every ingredient plays a starring role, from the creamy base to the gentle punch of tomatoes with green chiles.
- Chicken Breasts (3): Boneless and skinless, they become juicy and flavor-packed after hours in the crock pot.
- Diced Tomatoes with Green Chiles (10 oz. can): Don’t drain! The mild heat and tangy juice add zip and color throughout the dish.
- Cream of Chicken Soup (1 can): The ultimate shortcut for rich, savory flavor with a velvety texture.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup (1 can): Adds an earthy depth—its subtle flavor blends seamlessly in the background.
- ½ Onion (diced): For a hint of sweetness and aroma that’s impossible to ignore.
- Minced Garlic (2 tsp): Just a touch dials up the savory goodness another notch.
- Italian Seasoning (2 tsp): Brings warmth, herbal notes, and classic comfort to every bite.
- Cream Cheese (4 oz, diced): Melts into the sauce, creating that luscious, creamy texture you’ll crave.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese (2 cups): For bold flavor and that irresistible stretchy melt.
- Spaghetti (16 oz. package): Holds the sauce perfectly and turns your crock pot mixture into a true pasta feast.
Variations
One of my favorite things about Crock Pot Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti is just how easy it is to tweak based on your cravings or what’s in your pantry! Feel free to get creative—this recipe is so forgiving, you can confidently experiment to fit your family’s needs.
- Go Spicy: Swap the diced tomatoes with green chiles for a spicier “hot” variety, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat lovers.
- Veggie-Packed: Stir in chopped spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms right after shredding the chicken for extra color and nutrition.
- Lighter Version: Use reduced-fat cheeses and light soups, or substitute Greek yogurt for half the cream cheese to cut down on richness—but keep it creamy!
- Different Pasta Shapes: Try penne or rotini instead of spaghetti for a fun twist and easier scooping, especially with kiddos.
- Gluten-Free Adaptation: Simply use your favorite gluten-free spaghetti or pasta to make it celiac-friendly—no other changes needed!
How to Make Crock Pot Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti
Step 1: Load Up the Crock Pot
Start by adding the chicken breasts, undrained diced tomatoes with green chiles, both cans of soup, diced onion, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning directly into your crock pot. This step is truly as easy as it gets—layer everything in, give it a little stir so flavors start mingling, and pop that lid on.
Step 2: Let It Cook Low and Slow
Set your crock pot to high for 3–4 hours, or low for 6–8 hours, depending on your schedule. The magic here is that while you’re off living your life, the chicken turns fall-apart tender, soaking up every ounce of the savory, creamy sauce.
Step 3: Shred and Cheese, Please!
When the chicken is done, carefully remove it with tongs to a cutting board, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot. Now comes the best part—add the diced cream cheese and all that glorious shredded cheddar. Cover and let it melt into the sauce on low for about 20–30 minutes, until irresistibly creamy and cheesy.
Step 4: Cook Pasta & Combine
While the cheeses are melting, boil the spaghetti in salted water on the stovetop according to the package’s “al dente” directions—this keeps the noodles firm and perfectly slurpable. Drain the pasta, then stir it right into your cheesy crock pot mixture. Toss until every strand is luxuriously coated and dinner is ready to make everyone swoon!
Pro Tips for Making Crock Pot Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti
- Choose the Right Cheese: For the smoothest melt and the boldest flavor, opt for freshly shredded cheddar instead of pre-shredded (which can be drier and less creamy).
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook spaghetti until just al dente—remember it’ll soak up more sauce once mixed in, so a little bite is best!
- Cream Cheese First: Cut cream cheese into small cubes so it melts evenly and quickly into the hot sauce—no lumps, just pure silkiness.
- Shred Chicken Easily: Use a stand mixer with paddles or a hand mixer to shred the chicken right in the crock pot—super fast and saves you from burning your fingers.
How to Serve Crock Pot Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti
Garnishes
This dish shines with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley, chives, or even thinly sliced green onions—just enough to perk up the color and add a pop of freshness. A dusting of extra cheddar or a pinch of crushed red pepper can also bring it over the top for cheese and spice lovers.
Side Dishes
Serve your Crock Pot Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti with garlicky Texas toast, a crisp green salad, or tender roasted broccoli for a well-rounded and extra-satisfying dinner. Steamed green beans or a cucumber-tomato salad also pair beautifully with the creamy, cheesy pasta.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving your cheesy chicken spaghetti in individual ramekins, giving each guest their own mini casserole. Or, top the whole dish with a layer of extra cheese and broil it for a couple of minutes for a cheesy, bubbly crust—just like baked spaghetti straight from grandma’s kitchen.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow leftovers to cool completely, then transfer them into airtight containers. Crock Pot Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days, making lunches and midnight snacks absolutely irresistible.
Freezing
This recipe freezes surprisingly well! Just portion cooled spaghetti into freezer-friendly containers or baggies. It’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months—just thaw in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Warm leftovers gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth if the sauce thickens while chilling. Stir well and heat just until hot—you want it creamy, not overcooked!
FAQs
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Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work beautifully in Crock Pot Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti—they’re extra juicy and forgiving, so you’ll end up with even more flavor. Just be sure to use boneless, skinless thighs and adjust cook time as needed if your pieces are large.
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Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can fully prepare and assemble Crock Pot Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti a day in advance; just store the pasta separate from the sauce. When ready to eat, reheat both, combine, and serve for fresh-made flavor.
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What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?
No worries—you can double up on cream of chicken soup, or swap in cream of celery soup for a slightly different flavor profile. The recipe is super flexible, so use what you have on hand!
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Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?
You sure can! Substitute your favorite dairy-free cream cheese and shredded cheese, and opt for plant-based cream soups (there are great options out there!). The result will still be rich, creamy, and delicious for all to enjoy.
Final Thoughts
If you’re after pure comfort in a single bowl, you simply have to try Crock Pot Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti. It’s happiness on a fork and a guaranteed way to gather everyone around the table—so don’t wait, grab your crock pot and make tonight deliciously unforgettable!
Print
Crock Pot Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Crock Pot Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti recipe is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for a family dinner. Tender chicken, creamy cheeses, and zesty seasonings come together in a slow cooker for a delicious meal.
Ingredients
Chicken Spaghetti:
- 3 Chicken Breasts
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chiles (10 oz.) not drained
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 Onion Diced
- 2 tsp Minced Garlic
- 2 tsp Italian Seasoning
Cheesy Mixture:
- 4 oz cream cheese (diced)
- 2 cups Shredded cheddar cheese
Additional:
- 1 pkg Spaghetti (16 oz.)
Instructions
- Add the chicken, diced tomatoes, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, onion, garlic, and Italian seasoning to the crock pot. Mix well.
- Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6-8 hours.
- Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the crock pot.
- Stir in the cream cheese and grated cheddar cheese. Cover and cook on low for 20-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and combined.
- Cook the spaghetti noodles according to the package directions until al dente.
- Stir the cooked spaghetti noodles into the crock pot mixture until well combined.
- Serve and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
