The Easiest Cheesy Chicken Pasta Ever
Let me share my favorite set-it-and-forget-it dinner that's pure comfort in a bowl. This creamy chicken spaghetti practically makes itself in your slow cooker and always has everyone coming back for seconds. It's my go-to recipe when I want something delicious but don't have time to fuss in the kitchen.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
Your slow cooker does all the work while you go about your day and the result is pure magic. The chicken gets super tender the sauce becomes rich and creamy and when you toss it with spaghetti it's absolutely irresistible.
What You'll Need
- • Tender Chicken: 3 breasts they'll cook until perfectly shreddable
- • Zesty Tomatoes: 1 can with green chiles for a little kick
- • Creamy Soups: 1 can each cream of chicken and mushroom
- • Fresh Aromatics: ½ diced onion and 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- • Italian Seasoning: 2 teaspoons adds that perfect herb blend
- • Rich Cheeses: 4 oz cream cheese and 2 cups shredded cheddar
- • Perfect Pasta: 16 oz spaghetti cooked just right
Let's Make It
- Load Your Crockpot
- Put chicken tomatoes both soups onion garlic and seasonings in your slow cooker.
- Let It Cook
- Cover and cook until that chicken is super tender about 3-4 hours on high or 6-8 on low.
- Make It Cheesy
- Shred your chicken add it back with both cheeses let them melt into creamy goodness.
- Cook The Pasta
- Get your spaghetti going in salted water until it's just tender.
- Bring It Together
- Toss that pasta into your cheesy chicken mixture and watch everyone come running to the kitchen.
Make It Your Own
- • Perfect Pasta: Keep it al dente it'll keep cooking in the sauce
- • Extra Creamy: Add a splash of cream or some parmesan
- • Added Veggies: Toss in spinach mushrooms or peppers
- • Special Diets: Try gluten free pasta or dairy free cheese
- • Plant Based: Use meat alternatives and vegan cheese
What To Serve With It
We love this with a big Caesar salad and garlic bread on the side. If you want something lighter a simple arugula salad with balsamic dressing works beautifully.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
- • Next Day: Keeps in the fridge for 3-4 days sealed tight
- • Make Ahead: Freezes beautifully for up to 2 months
- • Heat Up: Add a splash of liquid when reheating to keep it creamy
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use different pasta shapes?
Yes, any pasta works but adjust cooking time according to package directions.
- → Can I prep this ahead?
Cook chicken and sauce ahead, then add pasta when reheating. This prevents pasta from getting mushy.
- → Why cook pasta separately?
Cooking pasta separately ensures perfect texture. Adding it directly to the slow cooker might make it too soft.
- → Can I freeze this dish?
Freeze without pasta for best results. Add fresh pasta when reheating.
- → Can I use precooked chicken?
Yes, add rotisserie or precooked chicken during the last hour of cooking.