Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a hearty meal slowly cooking away in your kitchen. This Crock Pot Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti is a delightful dish that effortlessly combines tender chicken, rich flavors, and gooey cheese, all generously enveloped with spaghetti. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this recipe is sure to bring smiles to the table. Grab your crockpot and prepare to indulge in this creamy, cheesy goodness!
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 7 hours
Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot, ensuring they are spread out evenly.
- In a mixing bowl, blend together the cream of chicken soup, diced tomatoes with green chilies, chicken broth, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined and creamy.
- Pour this delicious mixture over the chicken in the crockpot, making sure to cover the chicken completely.
- Cover your crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot for more flavor.
- Add the uncooked spaghetti to the mixture in the crockpot, stirring gently to combine all those lovely flavors.
- Cover again and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes, or until the spaghetti is perfectly tender.
- Finally, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts beautifully into the dish and creates a rich, creamy texture.
- For a pop of color and freshness, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve piping hot.
Notes or Tips
For a lighter version, feel free to substitute low-fat cream of chicken soup or reduced-fat cheese. Additionally, tossing in some vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers during the last 30 minutes of cooking can elevate this dish even further and add some nutritional value!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe utilizes the slow-cooking technique, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day. Shredding the chicken after the initial cooking phase ensures it absorbs all the delicious sauces and spices, creating a dish that is full of flavor and texture. Don’t rush the cooking time; the longer cook on low heat truly transforms this dish into a masterpiece!
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes! If you’re pressed for time, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just be sure to cook on high for about 4-5 hours instead of the standard time.
Can leftovers be stored?
Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth if necessary to bring back the creaminess.
Conclusion
This Crock Pot Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti is an effortless and satisfying meal that brings comfort and joy to any dinner table. Perfectly creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. So gather your loved ones, serve this dish, and enjoy the warmth and happiness it brings!