Slow Cooker Chicken Spaghetti

This Slow Cooker Chicken Spaghetti is a comforting and creamy one-pot meal perfect for busy days when you want something hearty without all the fuss. It brings together tender chicken, melty cheese, and spaghetti in a rich tomato and cream base that’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

I first tried this recipe on a hectic weeknight and was amazed at how effortless it was. Now it’s a regular on our menu because everyone loves how creamy and flavorful it turns out.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: ensures tender, shreddable meat fresh or thawed works best
• Minced garlic: gives a fragrant, savory kick that deepens the flavor
• Kosher salt: balances the dish and enhances the other seasonings
• Fresh cracked black pepper: for a fresh, subtle heat freshly ground is always ideal
• Onion powder: brings mellow sweetness and depth without chunks
• Italian seasoning: blends herbs like oregano and basil for a classic Italian flavor touch
• Undiluted cream of chicken soup: creates a creamy, rich sauce base choose a good-quality brand for better taste
• Diced tomatoes and green chiles: add acidity and a subtle spicy note that lifts the dish
• Freshly shredded Colby jack cheese: melts smoothly and adds gentle sharpness
• Cream cheese, softened and cubed: lends creaminess and thickness to the sauce
• Spaghetti: use your preferred brand and cook to al dente for best texture
• Fresh chopped parsley (optional): for a bright, herbaceous garnish that freshens the plate

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics and Season the Chicken:

Spray a 6 to 7-quart slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray or line with a slow cooker liner for easy cleanup. Lay the chicken breasts in a single even layer at the bottom. Sprinkle the minced garlic, kosher salt, cracked black pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning evenly over the chicken to build the flavor base.

Combine the Wet Ingredients:

In a small bowl, whisk together the two cans of undiluted cream of chicken soup with the diced tomatoes and green chiles including their liquid. This mixture will be the creamy, zesty sauce your chicken cooks in.

Cook the Chicken:

Pour the soup and tomato mixture over the seasoned chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Cover with the lid and cook on high for 4 hours or on low for 6 hours until the chicken is fully cooked and tender enough for shredding.

Shred the Chicken and Add Cheese:

Carefully remove the cooked chicken breasts to a clean plate or bowl. Use two forks to shred the chicken finely. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker along with the shredded Colby jack cheese and softened cream cheese cubes. Replace the lid and continue cooking on high for about 30 minutes until the cheeses are completely melted and the sauce is creamy throughout. Stir gently to combine.

Cook the Spaghetti:

While the cheese melts, prepare the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to stop further cooking and prevent mushiness.

Combine and Serve:

Add the drained spaghetti to the slow cooker and fold it together with the cheesy chicken mixture ensuring every noodle is coated in the sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve immediately while hot and creamy.

One memorable dinner was when my kids insisted on a second helping and then begged me to make it again the very next week. That kind of enthusiasm is what keeps this recipe in regular rotation.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to keep the sauce smooth and creamy. Avoid reheating at very high temperatures to prevent the cheese from separating.

Ingredient Substitutions

Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for extra juiciness and flavor. For dairy-free, substitute cream cheese and Colby jack with vegan cream cheese and shredded plant-based cheese. If you cannot find diced tomatoes with green chiles, regular diced tomatoes work fine; add a pinch of cayenne if you want some heat.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes if you like extra spice. Freshly grated Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil on top elevate the dish in the final presentation.

This dish combines ease with deliciousness making it a perfect weeknight go-to that everyone loves.

FAQs about Recipes

→ What cut of chicken is best for this dish?

Boneless skinless chicken breasts are ideal as they shred easily and absorb flavors well during slow cooking.

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, substituting colby jack with mozzarella or cheddar will alter the flavor but still provide a creamy texture.

→ How do I prevent the spaghetti from becoming mushy?

Cook the spaghetti al dente, then rinse with cold water after draining to stop cooking before mixing with the sauce.

→ Can this be prepared without a slow cooker?

You can simmer the chicken gently on the stovetop, but cooking times and moisture levels may need adjustment.

→ Is the diced tomatoes and green chiles essential?

They add a subtle tang and mild heat that enhance the sauce’s depth, but can be omitted if preferred.