Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti

Save this article on:

There’s nothing quite like a warm, cheesy bowl of Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti to comfort your soul and satisfy your cravings. This dish brings together tender shredded chicken, perfectly cooked spaghetti, and a rich, creamy sauce infused with just the right amount of spice and flavor from diced tomatoes and green chilies. Whether it’s a chilly weeknight or a casual dinner with friends, this meal hits the spot every time.

What makes this recipe so special is how effortless it is to prepare. With the help of your slow cooker, you can let the flavors meld and the cheese melt into silky perfection while you go about your day. It’s a dump-and-go kind of meal that doesn’t sacrifice taste for convenience — exactly what busy cooks need.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti

• It’s incredibly easy to prepare with minimal prep time.
• Packed with cheesy, creamy, savory flavor.
• A perfect one-pot family meal with leftovers that taste even better the next day.
• Customizable with veggies, different cheeses, or spices.
• Slow cooker magic means hands-off cooking and less cleanup.

---

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving in, gather your tools. You’ll need a slow cooker (crockpot), which is essential for slow-cooking the chicken to juicy, shreddable tenderness while letting the sauce thicken and flavors intensify. Tongs or two forks are helpful for shredding the chicken, while a large pot is necessary for boiling the spaghetti separately to the perfect al dente texture. A colander for draining pasta and a sturdy spatula or wooden spoon for stirring everything together will make the process smooth and easy.

Each tool has its purpose: the slow cooker ensures low, steady heat; the pot and colander are vital for perfect pasta; and good utensils make mixing and handling hot ingredients safer and more efficient.

---

Preparation Tips

To make your Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti as delicious as possible, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for tender, flavorful meat. Pre-cook your spaghetti just until al dente — it’ll continue to absorb the sauce once combined, so you don’t want it mushy. Add the cheese toward the end to avoid curdling, and stir it in well to achieve that smooth, creamy texture. Don’t skip seasoning your chicken with salt, pepper, and a little garlic powder upfront; it adds depth from the beginning.

---

Ingredients for Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 10 oz can of Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 8 oz block of cream cheese, cubed
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• 12 oz spaghetti, cooked al dente and drained
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (for tossing spaghetti)
• Fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

---

Step 1: Layer the Crockpot

Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. Season them with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Add the can of Rotel, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, and chicken broth on top. Do not stir — this allows the chicken to cook in the flavorful liquid and stay juicy.

---

Step 2: Cook Low and Slow

Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3-4 hours, depending on your schedule. This slow cook method ensures the chicken becomes fall-apart tender and soaks up the creamy, seasoned mixture.

---

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

Once the cooking time is complete, carefully remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and give everything a gentle stir to combine the meat with the sauce.

---

Step 4: Add Creaminess

Add the cubed cream cheese and 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese into the slow cooker. Stir well and cover again. Allow to cook on low for another 15–20 minutes, or until the cheeses have fully melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

---

Step 5: Cook and Toss the Spaghetti

While the cheese is melting, cook your spaghetti in a pot of salted boiling water until al dente (usually about 8–9 minutes). Drain the pasta and lightly toss it with olive oil or butter to prevent sticking.

---

Step 6: Combine and Finish

Add the cooked spaghetti to the slow cooker and toss everything together until well coated. Make sure the noodles are evenly covered in the creamy sauce. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese on top, cover the lid for another 5–10 minutes to let it melt in beautifully.

---

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once everything is fully combined and melted, serve the Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti warm. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and cracked black pepper for a pop of color and flavor.

---

Notes

To elevate your Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti, consider using a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for a stretchy, gooey finish. You can also sneak in some vegetables like diced bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition without compromising flavor. If you like a little kick, a dash of cayenne or a few dashes of hot sauce can bring a mild heat that complements the creaminess perfectly. This recipe is flexible — feel free to experiment!

---

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

1. Overcooking the spaghetti: Always cook the pasta until al dente; it will continue to soften in the sauce.
2. Adding cheese too early: This can lead to curdling. Always stir in cream cheese and shredded cheese after the chicken is cooked and shredded.
3. Skipping the seasoning step: Seasoning the chicken at the beginning adds deep flavor throughout the dish.
4. Not stirring thoroughly after adding cheese: Improper mixing can leave clumps. Stir until completely smooth.
5. Cooking on high too long: If possible, opt for low and slow. High heat can toughen the chicken and break the sauce.

---

Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk if the sauce has thickened too much. This dish is not ideal for freezing due to the cream-based sauce, which may separate upon thawing.

---

Estimated Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately)

• Calories: ~480 kcal
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 26g
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Cholesterol: 95mg
• Sodium: 760mg
• Sugar: 4g
• Fiber: 2g

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken?

Yes! Simply skip the long cook time and add shredded rotisserie chicken when you add the cheese. Heat everything through.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Absolutely. Penne, rotini, or even fettuccine work well — just make sure it’s cooked al dente before adding.

Is it okay to use low-fat cheese or cream cheese?

Yes, though the texture may be slightly less creamy. It’s a good option if you’re watching your fat intake.

How do I make it spicier?

Add diced jalapeños, hot Rotel, or a teaspoon of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes. Swap the chicken for mushrooms or plant-based protein, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Should I stir the ingredients in the crockpot while it cooks?

No need to stir during the cooking process. Stir after the chicken is shredded and cheese is added.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just ensure your crockpot is large enough. Cooking time may increase slightly with more volume.

Can I prepare this in advance?

Definitely! You can prepare the sauce and chicken a day ahead, then cook the spaghetti and combine just before serving.

---

Conclusion

Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti is a standout comfort dish that brings together indulgent texture and simple prep in one hearty bowl. With the perfect blend of tender chicken, savory cheese, and rich, creamy sauce, it’s a go-to option for busy nights, potlucks, or cozy weekends at home. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe delivers every time with flavor, ease, and flexibility. Give it a try — your slow cooker will thank you!

---

Print