If you’re in the mood for something ultra-comforting, packed with flavor, and as easy as it is impressive, look no further than this Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti. Picture tender chicken, a luscious ranch-spiked sauce, melty cheddar, and golden pasta all coming together in a cozy slow cooker. This recipe is a weeknight lifesaver and an instant family favorite—perfect for those who crave a big bowl of creamy, cheesy goodness without fussing over the stove. Trust me, once you taste this Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti, it’ll earn a regular spot in your dinner rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The best thing about Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti is how it transforms simple pantry staples into pure magic. Each ingredient delivers a vital splash of flavor, a kick of creaminess, or that irresistible golden color we all adore. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:
- Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts bring hearty protein and soak up all the creamy sauce flavors effortlessly.
- Spaghetti: Classic spaghetti strands are perfect for twirling and hold plenty of savory sauce in every bite.
- Cream of chicken soup: Adds rich, creamy backbone and a savory, comforting taste that binds the whole dish.
- Cream of mushroom soup: Introduces an earthy depth and extra silkiness—absolute nostalgia in a can!
- Sour cream: Brings a gentle tang and even more creamy texture.
- Ranch seasoning mix: The secret to zesty, herb-packed flavor running through every forkful.
- Chicken broth: Keeps things moist and flavorful without watering anything down.
- Cheddar cheese: Divided because you want some melted throughout and some glorious gooeyness melted on top.
- Garlic powder: An instant flavor boost that accents all the creamy elements.
- Black pepper: Just a hint to round out all the flavors and add subtle warmth.
- Chopped parsley (optional): For a fresh, vibrant pop of color right at the end—totally optional but so pretty!
How to Make Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti
Step 1: Layer the Slow Cooker
Start by placing your chicken breasts directly into the bottom of your greased slow cooker. This lets the chicken simmer right in all those delicious juices, guaranteeing maximum flavor and tenderness by the time it’s ready to shred.
Step 2: Mix Up the Creamy Sauce
In a medium mixing bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, ranch seasoning mix, chicken broth, garlic powder, and black pepper. Whisk it all together until smooth—this is your flavor-packed, creamy sauce that’s about to soak the chicken in savory goodness.
Step 3: Pour and Cook
Pour that luscious sauce right over the chicken in the crockpot, making sure every piece is covered. Pop the lid on and set your slow cooker on low for 6–7 hours, or high for 3–4 hours. As it cooks, the chicken becomes irresistibly tender, infusing all the creamy flavors together.
Step 4: Shred and Cheese It Up
When the chicken is done, remove the breasts and use two forks to shred them into satisfying, chunky pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir in 1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese for melty richness throughout the sauce.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
While the chicken and sauce finish melding, cook your spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta—you don’t want any excess water—and get ready for the marriage of noodles and creaminess.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Add the cooked spaghetti straight into the crockpot. Give everything a thorough stir so that each strand gets coated with that dreamy, cheesy, savory sauce. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese on top, then cover and let it sit for 10–15 minutes. This gives the cheese time to melt into a golden, bubbly topping that is pure comfort food heaven.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley if you like! Serve your Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti piping hot and watch the smiles appear.
How to Serve Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti
Garnishes
A little bit of green goes a long way for this dish! A generous sprinkling of freshly chopped parsley not only adds a pop of color, but also brings a light, herby freshness that balances all those rich flavors. If you want even more zing, sliced green onions or a dash of red pepper flakes are fantastic on top.
Side Dishes
Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti pairs perfectly with simple sides to round out the meal. Think buttery garlic bread for scooping up every bit of sauce, a crisp Caesar salad for crunch, or steamed broccoli to add some green goodness. Even a platter of roasted veggies works if you’re feeling extra virtuous.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re having company or just want a new twist, try twirling individual portions of Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti into neat nests on plates and topping each one with an extra sprinkle of cheese and parsley. You can also serve it family-style in a big, rustic casserole dish or straight out of the slow cooker for cozy, casual comfort food vibes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti keep beautifully! Scoop the cooled pasta into an airtight container and refrigerate. It’ll stay creamy and delicious for up to 3 days, making it perfect for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
If you want to freeze, let the spaghetti cool completely, then divide into single-serving portions and freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating—this way, the sauce stays smooth and the pasta keeps a great texture.
Reheating
For best results, reheat Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. If it looks a little thick, just add a splash of milk or chicken broth to get that perfect creamy consistency again. Stir well, and it will taste like it’s straight from the crockpot!
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Just shred your rotisserie chicken and add it near the end of cooking when you stir in the cheese. This is a fantastic shortcut if you’re short on time, and it gives the Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti a delicious roasted flavor.
What other pasta shapes can I use?
Spaghetti is classic, but feel free to use any short pasta you have on hand, such as penne, rotini, or fusilli. Just cook until al dente and proceed as directed; each shape will soak up the creamy sauce a little differently for a fun change of texture in your Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti.
Can I add vegetables to the recipe?
Definitely! Stir in some cooked peas, baby spinach, or even sautéed mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor. Add these right before the final cheese step so they stay vibrant and don’t overcook.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti is mild and super kid-friendly. If you want a little heat, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to suit your family’s taste buds.
How do I keep the spaghetti from getting mushy?
The trick is to cook the pasta just until al dente and add it at the very end. This way, it won’t overcook as it sits in the hot, creamy sauce and will retain that perfect, satisfying bite everyone loves in Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti is proof that comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated. Every bite delivers creamy, cheesy goodness, making it perfect for sharing around the table. Give it a try and see just how easy and delicious homemade happiness can be!
Print
Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the creamy goodness of this easy-to-make Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti. Tender chicken, savory soups, and cheddar cheese come together to create a comforting and satisfying dish that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Pasta:
- 10 ounces uncooked spaghetti
For the Sauce:
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 (1-ounce) packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional for Garnish:
- Chopped parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Place chicken breasts in the bottom of a greased slow cooker.
- Make the Sauce: In a medium bowl, mix together cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, ranch seasoning, chicken broth, garlic powder, and pepper. Pour the mixture over the chicken.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
- Shred and Add Cheese: Remove chicken, shred it with two forks, then return it to the crockpot. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese.
- Cook Pasta: Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente, then drain.
- Combine: Add the cooked spaghetti to the crockpot and stir until fully combined and coated in the creamy sauce.
- Top and Melt Cheese: Top with the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese, cover, and let sit for 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted.
- Garnish: Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Use any short pasta if spaghetti isn’t available.
- Add cooked bacon or frozen peas for extra flavor and texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 980 mg
- Fat: 26 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 34 g
- Cholesterol: 115 mg
