Creamy crockpot chicken spaghetti
I still remember the first time I made spaghetti in a crockpot. It was one of those crisp fall evenings when the air carries a chill and dinner calls for something warm, comforting, and easy. I had just gotten back from a brisk hike, craving something hearty but without the hassle of a long cook. So, I did what any pasta-loving home cook might do—I tossed everything into the slow cooker and hoped for the best.
The result? A creamy, cheesy, flavor-packed chicken spaghetti that’s now become a staple in our home. Whether it’s a busy weekday or a lazy Sunday, this Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti is always a hit—and a time-saver.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 10.5 oz Cream of chicken soup
- 10.5 oz Cream of mushroom soup
- 10 oz Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies (undrained)
- 4 oz Cream cheese (cubed)
- 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
- 1.5 pounds Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 12 oz Spaghetti (uncooked)
- 2 cups Shredded mozzarella and cheddar blend
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep Your Crockpot
Spray the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray. This keeps cleanup easy and prevents sticking.
2. Make the Creamy Base
Add the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, Rotel tomatoes (with juice), cubed cream cheese, and Italian seasoning. Stir gently to combine.
3. Add the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts directly into the sauce. Make sure they’re coated well and mostly submerged for even cooking.
4. Let It Cook
Cover the crockpot and cook on LOW for 4 hours. During this time, the flavors come together beautifully.
5. Boil the Pasta
About 30 minutes before the chicken is done, cook the spaghetti according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
6. Shred the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the sauce.
7. Mix Everything Together
Add the drained spaghetti to the crockpot and stir to combine. Make sure the pasta is well coated with the creamy, cheesy sauce.
8. Add Cheese & Finish Cooking
Top everything with the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese. Replace the lid and cook on LOW for another 30 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and everything is hot.
9. Serve & Enjoy
Dish it up hot and enjoy the ultimate comfort food—perfect for busy weeknights, cold days, or feeding a hungry family on a budget.
Why This Recipe Works
- Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples and affordable ingredients.
- Kid-Approved: Creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor.
- Set It and Forget It: A true dump-and-go slow cooker meal.
- High in Comfort, Low in Effort: Exactly what busy families need.
Tips for Best Results
- Use full-fat cream cheese for a richer sauce.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, opt for spicy Rotel.
- This recipe reheats well—great for meal prep or leftovers.
Perfect for Family Dinners, Potlucks & Meal Prepping
This dish isn’t just another crockpot recipe—it’s a crowd-pleaser that brings everyone to the table. It’s creamy, savory, and filled with love—and let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a good one-pot slow cooker meal?
If you’re looking for easy crockpot recipes, budget-friendly dinners, or quick family meals, this Creamy Chicken Spaghetti checks every box.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use a different type of pasta instead of spaghetti?Yes! While spaghetti works perfectly in this recipe, you can substitute with linguine, fettuccine, or even penne. Just make sure to cook the pasta al dente so it doesn’t get too soft in the crockpot.
- Is it okay to use frozen chicken breasts?Technically, yes—but it’s recommended to thaw chicken before using it in a slow cooker to ensure safe and even cooking. Starting with frozen meat can extend cook time and may pose food safety risks.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time?Absolutely! This dish stores well in the fridge for up to 3–4 days and reheats beautifully in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth.
- What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?Place the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish, add a tablespoon of milk or chicken broth, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. You can also reheat it in a covered pan on the stovetop over low heat.
- Can I freeze Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti?Yes! Let the dish cool completely, then store in airtight containers or freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Is this recipe spicy?The dish has a mild kick from the Rotel tomatoes with green chilies, but it’s not overwhelmingly spicy. You can tone it down by using plain diced tomatoes or spice it up by adding chili flakes or jalapeños.
- What can I serve with this meal?This creamy pasta pairs well with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. It’s filling on its own but can be easily rounded out with your favorite side dishes.
Conclusion: A Comforting Classic You’ll Make Again and Again
In a world full of fast food and hectic schedules, it’s a relief to have recipes like this Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti—the kind that feels like a warm hug after a long day.
It’s rich, satisfying, and easy enough to make on a busy weeknight, yet delicious enough to serve at a gathering or potluck. With pantry-friendly ingredients and hands-off cooking, it’s the kind of recipe that works for real life.
Whether you’re new to slow cooking or a seasoned Crockpot pro, this is one meal that will quickly earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.