Let me tell you, there’s something truly magical about crockpot chicken spaghetti! This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a cozy hug in a bowl. Imagine tender chicken simmering away in a rich, flavorful sauce, mingling with spaghetti until it’s perfectly al dente. I remember the first time I made it for my family; the aroma wafting through the house drew everyone in, and by the time dinner rolled around, we were all eagerly waiting at the table. It’s not just easy to prepare, but it also brings everyone together, making it a staple in my home. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Ingredients for Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 8 oz spaghetti, uncooked
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped, for garnish

How to Prepare Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti

Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step magic of preparing this dish! Trust me, once you get the hang of it, you’ll be whipping up this comforting meal in no time.

Preparing the Chicken and Sauce

First things first, you want to make sure your crockpot is ready to work its magic. Start by placing the 2 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. This is crucial because the chicken needs to sit in the flavorful sauce to stay juicy and tender. Next, pour in the can of diced tomatoes along with the tomato sauce and chicken broth. Then, sprinkle the chopped onion, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper over the top. Give it a gentle stir to combine everything. This layering technique not only helps with flavor distribution but also ensures the chicken cooks evenly.

Cooking Time and Temperature

Now, it’s time to set your crockpot to either low or high. If you choose low, let it cook for about 6-8 hours. This longer cook time allows the flavors to deepen and the chicken to become incredibly tender. If you’re short on time, you can opt for the high setting, which will take around 3-4 hours. The high setting is great when you want that delicious meal sooner, but I find that the low setting really enhances the sauce’s flavor and the chicken’s tenderness. Just keep an eye on it towards the end of cooking!

Adding Spaghetti and Finishing Touches

Once your chicken is cooked through and has soaked up all those delightful flavors, it’s time for the spaghetti! Carefully shred the chicken using two forks, mixing it back into the sauce. Now, here’s a little tip: add the 8 oz of uncooked spaghetti directly into the crockpot, making sure it’s submerged in the sauce. This is key to achieving that perfect al dente texture. Cover the crockpot and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes. When the spaghetti is ready, stir everything together, then top with shredded mozzarella cheese and cover until it melts. Finally, garnish with fresh basil just before serving for that extra pop of flavor and color. Yum!

FAQ About Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti

Can I use frozen chicken?

Absolutely! If you’re in a pinch and have frozen chicken on hand, you can definitely use it. Just keep in mind that you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. If you’re cooking on low, aim for about 8-10 hours to ensure the chicken is fully cooked and tender. On high, it should take around 4-5 hours. Just make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety. And don’t worry, the sauce will still be packed with flavor while the chicken cooks!

What can I substitute for spaghetti?

If you’re looking to mix things up, there are plenty of alternatives to traditional spaghetti! Zucchini noodles are a fantastic low-carb option and add a nice crunch. Just spiralize your zucchini and add it in the last 15-20 minutes of cooking to keep it from getting too soft. Whole wheat pasta is another great choice for a healthier twist; just keep an eye on the cooking time as it may cook a bit faster than regular spaghetti. These swaps can change the texture and flavor profile slightly, but they’re delicious in their own right!

How do I store leftovers?

Storing leftovers is super easy! Just let the crockpot chicken spaghetti cool down a bit, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to portion it out so you can defrost only what you need later. When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. Easy peasy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation with minimal hands-on time—just layer and let the crockpot do the work!
• Versatile dish that you can customize with different vegetables or pasta types.
• Family-friendly meal that even picky eaters will love, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Healthy components, packed with protein from chicken and the goodness of tomatoes and herbs.
• Great for meal prep or leftovers, ensuring you have delicious meals ready for busy days.
• A cozy, comforting dish that brings everyone together around the table.

Tips for Success

Let me share some of my go-to tips to ensure your crockpot chicken spaghetti turns out perfectly every time! These little nuggets of wisdom can take your dish from good to absolutely amazing.

• Don’t skip the browning: For an added depth of flavor, consider searing the chicken breasts in a skillet before adding them to the crockpot. Just a couple of minutes on each side will give you that lovely golden crust that enhances the overall taste!
• Adjust the seasoning: Always taste the sauce before serving. Depending on your taste and the brand of tomatoes you use, you might want to add a pinch more salt or a splash of vinegar to brighten the flavors. Trust your palate!
• Perfect pasta: If you prefer your spaghetti to have a bit more bite, add it later in the cooking process. You can toss it in during the last 15-20 minutes instead of the full 30. This way, it’ll absorb less liquid and stay firmer.
• Experiment with herbs: Fresh herbs can elevate this dish! Besides basil, try adding fresh parsley or oregano for a different twist. Just sprinkle them on top right before serving to keep that freshness intact.
• Use high-quality ingredients: Since this dish is all about the sauce, opt for quality canned tomatoes and broth. A good base makes all the difference in flavor!
• Don’t rush the cook time: Patience is key with crockpot recipes! If you cook on low, let it go the full time for that melt-in-your-mouth chicken. Cooking on high can save time, but the flavors won’t meld as beautifully.

By following these tips, you’re bound to impress everyone at your table and enjoy a deliciously satisfying meal! Happy cooking!

Variations on Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti

One of the best things about this crockpot chicken spaghetti is how adaptable it is! You can easily mix things up to keep it exciting. Here are some of my favorite variations that can change the flavor profile and add a fun twist to this dish:

• Veggie Delight: Toss in some of your favorite vegetables! Bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach can add a burst of color and nutrition. Just chop them up and add them in with the sauce ingredients. They’ll soften beautifully and infuse the dish with extra flavor.
• Spicy Kick: If you love heat, consider adding a couple of teaspoons of crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce. This little addition can take your dish from comfort food to a spicy fiesta!
• Alternative Sauces: Switch up the tomato-based sauce for something different. Try using Alfredo sauce for a creamy version or a pesto sauce for a fresh, herby flavor. Each option gives a totally new vibe and is equally delicious!
• Cheesy Goodness: For cheese lovers, layer in some cream cheese or ricotta along with the shredded mozzarella. This gives the dish a rich, creamy texture that’s just divine. You can also experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for added flavor.
• Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to enhance the dish’s aroma and flavor. Toss them in along with the other ingredients, or sprinkle them on top just before serving for a fresh kick!
• Protein Swap: Feel free to swap the chicken for turkey or even shredded beef if you’re in the mood for something different. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything is cooked through and tender.

These variations make it easy to cater to different tastes and keep everyone at your table happy. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this recipe your own!

Nutritional Information

Let’s talk about the nutritional goodness packed into this crockpot chicken spaghetti! Just a heads up, the nutrition values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so it’s always good to check those labels if you’re keeping a close eye on your intake. Here’s a general breakdown for a serving size of 1 cup:

• Calories: 450
• Total Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 80mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 55g
• Dietary Fiber: 3g
• Total Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 35g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g

This hearty dish not only fills you up but also provides a good balance of protein and carbs, making it a fulfilling option for family dinners. Enjoy every delicious bite, knowing you’re savoring a meal that nourishes both body and soul!

Next Steps to Enjoy Your Dish

Now that you’ve mastered the art of crockpot chicken spaghetti, it’s time to enjoy every delicious bite! I’d love to hear how your dish turned out. Did you make any fun variations? What did your family think? Please leave a comment below to share your experiences and any tips you discovered along the way!

If you enjoyed this recipe, consider giving it a rating! Your feedback not only helps me improve but also guides fellow home cooks looking for their next favorite meal. And hey, don’t forget to snap a photo of your creation and share it on social media. Tag me so I can see your beautiful dishes and celebrate your culinary success together!

Happy cooking, and may your kitchen always be filled with warmth and love!

Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti: A Heartfelt Family Comfort

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 6-8 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Crockpot chicken spaghetti is a hearty dish that combines tender chicken and pasta in a flavorful sauce, all cooked slowly for enhanced taste.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 8 oz spaghetti
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

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Instructions

1. Place chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot.
2. Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth, onion, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until chicken is cooked through.
4. Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks and stir to combine with the sauce.
5. Add uncooked spaghetti to the crockpot, ensuring it’s submerged in the sauce.
6. Cover and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes, or until spaghetti is al dente.
7. Stir well, then top with mozzarella cheese and cover until melted.
8. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Notes

• For a spicy kick, add crushed red pepper flakes.
• Use whole wheat spaghetti for a healthier option.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Crockpot
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: crockpot chicken spaghetti, slow cooker pasta, chicken spaghetti recipe