Introduction
Welcome to a comfort food dream come true! This Crock Pot Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti is the epitome of cozy cooking, perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. Imagine tender, juicy chicken simmered to perfection, enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce, all combined with al dente spaghetti. It’s a delightful blend of flavors that will leave your family asking for seconds. Plus, it’s made with such ease in your trusty slow cooker, allowing you to sit back and relax while the magic happens!
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 12 oz spaghetti, uncooked
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 7 hours
Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker, laying the foundation for this dish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, diced tomatoes, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is lovely and smooth.
- Pour this creamy mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker, covering the chicken entirely.
- Add the chicken broth and stir gently to combine all the ingredients, creating a luscious sauce.
- Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is perfectly cooked and tender.
- Once the chicken is done, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks; it should fall apart beautifully.
- Return the shredded chicken back to the slow cooker, mixing it in to soak up all the delicious flavors.
- Add the uncooked spaghetti and give it a good stir to ensure it’s well combined.
- Cover and cook on high for another 30 minutes, or until the spaghetti is cooked al dente and bursting with flavor.
- Once ready, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into a creamy, cheesy delight.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot for a truly comforting meal!
Notes or Tips
For an extra kick, consider adding some red pepper flakes to the mix! You can also swap out the cheddar for your favorite cheese—Monterey Jack or mozzarella works wonderfully. If you prefer a lighter meal, feel free to use chicken thighs or even shredded rotisserie chicken for ease.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe makes use of slow cooking to tenderize the chicken while infusing it with rich flavors from the broth and soup. The key to the perfect texture for your spaghetti is to add it uncooked into the slow cooker towards the end of the cooking time, allowing it to absorb all those delightful juices for an exceptional taste experience.
FAQ
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything in the slow cooker the night before, keep it refrigerated, and start cooking in the morning for a fabulous ready-to-eat dinner.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth to maintain creaminess.
Conclusion
This Crock Pot Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti is not just a recipe—it’s a heartfelt dish that brings family together at the dinner table. The incredible ease of preparation combined with the rich, cheesy goodness makes it a go-to meal for any occasion. So, gather your loved ones, ladle out generous portions, and enjoy this soul-warming dish that promises both comfort and joy!