Introduction
If you’re looking for a comforting and hearty meal that’s simple to prepare, this slow cooker chicken spaghetti recipe might just be what you need. The combination of tender chicken, rich cream of chicken soup, and zesty diced tomatoes with green chiles creates a flavorful sauce that perfectly coats spaghetti. Plus, the addition of melted Colby Jack and cream cheese gives the dish a creamy texture that’s hard to resist. Ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1½ teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
21 ounces (2 cans) undiluted cream of chicken soup
10 ounces diced tomatoes and green chiles (e.g., Rotel)
2 cups freshly shredded Colby Jack cheese
4 ounces softened and cubed cream cheese
16 ounces spaghetti
1 teaspoon fresh chopped parsley (optional garnish)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 4-6 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6-8 servings
This delicious slow cooker chicken spaghetti is not only easy to make but also rewards you with a flavorful meal that’s perfect for family dinners or meal preparation. Enjoy the rich and creamy textures paired with well-seasoned chicken and cheesy goodness. Prepare to impress your taste buds!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Slow Cooker
Spray a 6-7 quart slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray or line with a disposable liner.
Add Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of the slow cooker.
Season the Chicken
Evenly sprinkle minced garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning over the chicken.
Mix Soup and Tomatoes
In a small bowl, whisk together the undiluted cream of chicken soup and diced tomatoes and green chiles with their liquid.
Combine with Chicken
Pour the soup mixture over the seasoned chicken. Cover and cook on high for 4 hours or low for 6 hours.
Shred the Chicken
After cooking, ensure the chicken is fully cooked. Remove it from the slow cooker and shred using two forks.
Add Cheeses
Add the shredded Colby Jack cheese and cubed cream cheese to the slow cooker. Cover and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes, or until the cheeses are fully melted. Stir the cheeses and sauce together.
Cook Spaghetti
While the cheese is melting, cook the spaghetti according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent the noodles from becoming mushy.
Combine Ingredients
Add the shredded chicken and cooked spaghetti to the slow cooker. Stir to combine and fully coat the noodles with the sauce.
Serve
Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
Chicken Breasts
Use boneless skinless chicken breasts for this recipe to ensure tenderness and ease of shredding.
Spicing It Up
Adjust the level of heat by choosing mild or spicy diced tomatoes and green chiles.
Cheese Alternatives
Feel free to substitute the Colby Jack cheese with other cheeses like cheddar or Monterey Jack according to your preference.
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Garnish
Fresh chopped parsley adds a nice touch of color and flavor, but it is optional.
Cook techniques
Slow Cooking
Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld and the chicken to become tender, making it perfect for this creamy dish.
Seasoning
Evenly sprinkling the seasonings over the chicken ensures that each piece is well-flavored, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
Shredding Chicken
Using two forks to shred the chicken after slow cooking makes it easy to pull apart the meat, which helps it absorb the sauce better.
Melting Cheese
Adding the shredded and cubed cheeses toward the end of the cooking process allows them to melt perfectly without becoming tough.
Cooking Pasta
Cooking the spaghetti according to package directions ensures the pasta is al dente, which helps prevent it from getting mushy when combined with the sauce.
Combining Ingredients
Stirring the shredded chicken and spaghetti together in the slow cooker ensures that every bite is coated in the creamy sauce.
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used as they are flavorful and tend to stay moist during cooking.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
You can use homemade cream sauce or a different cream soup, like cream of mushroom, as a substitute.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the dish after cooking. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Yes, you can replace the chicken with a plant-based protein, such as chickpeas or tofu, and the cream soup with a vegetable-based equivalent.
Conclusion
This creamy, flavorful chicken spaghetti made in the slow cooker is a perfect comfort food dish that combines the rich taste of melted cheeses with tender, seasoned chicken. The addition of diced tomatoes and green chiles adds a delightful kick, making it a family favorite. With minimal prep and easy cleanup, it’s an ideal recipe for busy weekday dinners or for entertaining guests.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Cheesy Chicken Casserole
Combine cooked chicken with a variety of vegetables, cream of mushroom soup, and cheese. Bake until bubbly and golden for a comforting casserole dish.
Chicken Enchiladas
Use shredded chicken with cream cheese, diced green chiles, and cheese rolled in tortillas, topped with enchilada sauce and more cheese, then baked until warm and melty.
Pasta Primavera
Toss your favorite pasta with a variety of seasonal vegetables, olive oil, garlic, and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for a light and colorful dish.
Chicken Tacos
Mix shredded chicken with taco seasoning and serve in tortillas with toppings such as salsa, shredded lettuce, cheese, and avocado for a quick and tasty meal.
Stuffed Peppers
Fill bell peppers with a mixture of shredded chicken, rice, diced tomatoes, and spices, then bake until the peppers are tender for a delicious and healthy dinner option.
