crock pot chicken spaghetti recipe
- The Best crock pot chicken spaghetti recipe
- Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Chicken Spaghetti
- 🥘Ingredients
- 👨🍳Directions
- 🔧Equipment
- 📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- 📝Notes
- Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Chicken Spaghetti Works
- ❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Chicken Spaghetti
The Best crock pot chicken spaghetti recipe
Oh, this Crock Pot Chicken Spaghetti is the kind of meal that just makes everything easier—no stress, no mess, and always a hit with my family. I’ve been making it for years, and it’s become a staple in our house, whether we’re hosting a quick dinner for the kids after school or pulling it together on busy weeknights. The thing about slow cooker meals is that they’re foolproof, but this one? It’s got that perfect balance of flavor and comfort that makes it feel like home. My kids—especially my picky one—will eat it straight from the pot, and my husband always says it’s the only spaghetti he’ll have if it’s made in the crock pot. It’s not just easy to make; it’s also packed with nutrients. Chicken is lean protein, and the veggies—bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms—add fiber and vitamins, so it’s a real winner for keeping things healthy without sacrificing taste. Plus, the sauce is so simple, you can’t go wrong, and it’s got that rich, savory depth that makes every bite satisfying. It’s the kind of dish that feels special on game day or when we’re entertaining guests, but it’s also just as good for everyday meals when we’re all just trying to keep things simple and delicious.
Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Chicken Spaghetti
A comforting, one-pot meal featuring tender chicken, creamy garlic sauce, and al dente spaghetti. Perfect for busy weeknights!
🥘Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup chopped fresh parsley
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese
👨🍳Directions
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1 In a bowl, toss chicken thighs with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Place in the slow cooker.
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2 Cook chicken on HIGH for 2 hours or LOW for 4 hours until fully cooked (165°F internal temp). Remove chicken, shred, and set aside.
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3 While chicken cooks, boil spaghetti in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
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4 In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour to make a roux for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream until smooth.
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5 Add crushed tomatoes, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in shredded chicken, cooked spaghetti, and ½ cup Parmesan. Cook for 2 more minutes.
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6 Transfer sauce to the slow cooker. Stir in remaining ½ cup Parmesan and parsley. Cover and cook on LOW for 1 hour (optional, for extra creaminess).
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7 Serve hot, garnished with black pepper and extra Parmesan.
🔧Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Large pot
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon
- Mixing bowls
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Chicken Spaghetti Works
This Crock Pot Chicken Spaghetti is always a lifesaver for busy weeknights or when you need a hearty meal that feels like a special occasion without the stress. It’s simple to make ahead, so you can prep ingredients in advance and let the slow cooker handle the rest while you handle other things—perfect for families or when guests arrive. The tender chicken and rich sauce make it satisfying enough to feel like a homemade feast, and it never gets dry or overcooked, so it’s always a reliable crowd-pleaser.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Chicken Spaghetti
1. What ingredients are typically needed for a crock pot chicken spaghetti recipe?
For this recipe, you’ll generally need chicken breasts or thighs, whole wheat or regular spaghetti, canned tomatoes (like crushed or diced), onion, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, olive oil, and a splash of red wine or broth. Some variations may include bell peppers, mushrooms, or a dash of red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
2. How long should I cook the chicken in the slow cooker for this recipe?
Cook the chicken breasts or thighs on LOW for 3 to 4 hours or on HIGH for 2 to 2.5 hours, until fully cooked through (165°F internal temperature). If using thighs, they may take slightly longer. Remove the chicken, shred it, and set it aside before adding the rest of the ingredients.
3. Can I use pre-cooked spaghetti instead of fresh pasta?
Yes! You can use pre-cooked spaghetti (cooked according to package instructions) to save time. Just drain and rinse it under cold water, then add it to the slow cooker with the other ingredients. If using fresh spaghetti, cook it separately first and drain before combining.
4. What’s the best way to prevent the spaghetti from getting mushy in the crock pot?
To keep the spaghetti firm, avoid overcooking it. If using fresh pasta, cook it just until al dente (slightly firm) before adding it to the slow cooker. If using pre-cooked spaghetti, add it in the last 15–30 minutes of cooking to prevent mushiness. Alternatively, you can stir in a little pasta water at the end to help retain texture.
5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time and reheat it?
Yes! This dish tastes even better the next day. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, transfer it to a microwave-safe dish and warm on LOW for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, or heat in a skillet over medium heat until hot through. The sauce will thicken slightly upon reheating, so you may need to add a splash of pasta water if needed.
