Slow-Cooked Comfort: Crock Pot Chicken Spaghetti
Welcome to the realm of slow-cooked comfort with our tantalizing Crock Pot Chicken Spaghetti recipe. Bursting with flavors and effortlessly prepared in your trusty slow cooker, this dish promises to be a family favorite. Imagine tender chicken breasts simmered in a creamy blend of soups and spices, combined with al dente spaghetti and gooey melted cheese—it’s a symphony of flavors that will delight your senses and warm your soul. Join us as we embark on a culinary journey and uncover the secrets to creating this irresistible dish.
Ingredients:
- 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup
- 10.5 oz cream of mushroom soup
- 10 oz Rotel diced tomatoes and diced chilies, not drained
- 4 oz cream cheese, cubed
- 2 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese blend
Instructions:
- Prepare Slow Cooker: Grease the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Combine Ingredients: In the slow cooker, mix together the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, undrained Rotel diced tomatoes and diced chilies, cubed cream cheese, and Italian seasoning until well combined.
- Add Chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the slow cooker, ensuring they are fully submerged in the sauce mixture.
- Cook on Low: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Shred Chicken: Remove the cooked chicken breasts from the slow cooker and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix well with the sauce.
- Cook Spaghetti: Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Combine Spaghetti and Sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the slow cooker with the chicken and sauce mixture. Gently toss until the spaghetti is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese blend over the top of the spaghetti mixture in the slow cooker.
- Final Cook: Cover and cook on low for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Serve the Crock Pot Chicken Spaghetti hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Vegetable Additions: Add diced bell peppers, sliced mushrooms, or chopped spinach to the sauce mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
- Spicy Kick: For extra heat, use a can of hot Rotel diced tomatoes and diced chilies or add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Creamier Texture: Increase the amount of cream cheese or add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce for a richer, creamier consistency.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Option: Replace the spaghetti with spiralized zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles for a low-carb alternative. Use keto-friendly cream of chicken and cream of mushroom soups or make your own using heavy cream and chicken or mushroom broth. Opt for full-fat cream cheese and a low-carb cheese blend.
- Low-Carb Option: Similarly, reduce the amount of spaghetti or omit it altogether. Increase the protein content by adding more chicken or incorporate cooked cauliflower florets for added bulk and texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe? Yes, you can use bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks, but you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before shredding.
- Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce mixture and cook the chicken in advance, then refrigerate or freeze until ready to assemble and cook the spaghetti. Adjust the final cooking time as needed.
- Can I use other types of pasta instead of spaghetti? Yes, feel free to use your favorite pasta shape such as penne, rigatoni, or farfalle. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the pasta’s cooking instructions.
- Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd? Certainly! Simply double the ingredients and use a larger slow cooker or divide the mixture between two slow cookers if needed. Be mindful of the cooking time and ensure everything is thoroughly cooked before serving.
In conclusion, Crock Pot Chicken Spaghetti is the epitome of comfort food done right, offering a satisfying meal that’s both delicious and easy to prepare. With its flavorful blend of creamy sauces, tender chicken, and melted cheese, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or entertaining a crowd, the convenience of the slow cooker combined with the irresistible flavors of this dish make it a winner every time. So gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and get ready to savor the comforting goodness of Crock Pot Chicken Spaghetti—your taste buds will thank you!
