Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti

There’s nothing quite as satisfying as a warm, creamy bowl of cheesy chicken spaghetti made effortlessly in a slow cooker. This dish combines tender shredded chicken, gooey melted cheese, and flavorful Rotel tomatoes for a rich and comforting meal. Whether you’re cooking for a busy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe delivers a hearty, delicious meal with minimal effort.

A crockpot is the perfect tool for making this dish because it allows the flavors to blend beautifully while ensuring the chicken stays moist and tender. Unlike traditional stovetop recipes, a slow cooker lets you “set it and forget it,” making it ideal for busy schedules. If you love creamy, cheesy pasta dishes, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household.

This slow-cooked spaghetti dish isn’t just about taste—it’s also incredibly versatile. You can adjust the level of spice, swap out cheeses, or even add vegetables to make it a well-rounded meal. If you’re curious about how different cheese varieties affect texture, you might enjoy reading about Velveeta, a key ingredient that creates the smooth and creamy consistency of this dish.

Another reason this dish is so popular is its comforting, home-cooked flavor. Combining cream of chicken soup, Rotel tomatoes, and cheddar cheese creates a creamy, tangy sauce that perfectly coats the spaghetti. If you’re interested in learning more about the role of tomatoes in cooking, check out Rotel Tomatoes, which are often used to add a spicy, Southwestern kick to dishes.

By the time this meal is ready, you’ll have a crockpot full of cheesy, flavorful pasta that’s perfect for a family dinner or even leftovers the next day. And if you’re looking for more slow cooker pasta dishes, take a look at some delicious ideas on Pinterest, where you’ll find variations of this recipe with different ingredients and flavors.

Why Use a Crockpot for This Recipe?

A crockpot is one of the best kitchen tools for preparing cheesy chicken spaghetti, offering a hands-free cooking experience while ensuring deep, rich flavors. Unlike stovetop cooking, a slow cooker allows all the ingredients to meld together gradually, creating a creamy, well-balanced dish with minimal effort.

Benefits of Using a Slow Cooker

• Effortless Cooking: Simply add the ingredients, set the timer, and let the crockpot do the work. No need to constantly stir or monitor the pot.
• Enhanced Flavor Development: Slow cooking allows spices, cheeses, and sauces to blend seamlessly, making each bite deliciously rich.
• Tender Chicken Every Time: Cooking chicken at a low temperature for several hours ensures it remains juicy and easy to shred.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a large batch and store leftovers for quick, delicious meals throughout the week.

A slow cooker is especially useful when working with pasta dishes because it allows for gradual cheese melting, preventing clumps or uneven textures. To better understand how slow cookers work, check out this Wikipedia guide on slow cookers.

Slow Cooker vs. Stovetop: Which is Better?

While a stovetop version of this dish can be prepared in under 45 minutes, using a crockpot enhances the flavors and texture significantly. Here’s a comparison of both methods:

By using a slow cooker, you can achieve a restaurant-quality dish without spending hours in the kitchen. If you love comforting, hearty meals like this, you might also enjoy browsing Pinterest’s collection of easy family dinners for more inspiration.

Ingredients Breakdown & Substitutions

The secret to a perfect cheesy chicken spaghetti lies in selecting the right ingredients. Each component contributes to the dish’s rich, creamy, and savory taste. Below, we break down the essential ingredients and offer suitable substitutions for dietary preferences and flavor variations.

Essential Ingredients & Their Roles

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe, as they become tender and shred easily after slow cooking. Substitutions: Chicken thighs for extra juiciness or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
• Cheese: A mix of Velveeta and shredded cheddar cheese ensures a smooth, creamy texture. Substitutions: Monterey Jack, Colby, or Pepper Jack for a spicier kick. Learn more about Velveeta cheese and why it’s perfect for melting.
• Canned Soups: Cream of chicken soup and cream of mushroom soup form the base of the creamy sauce. Substitutions: Homemade versions using a butter-flour roux with chicken broth and milk.
• Rotel Tomatoes: These provide a slight spice and tanginess, balancing the richness of the cheese. Substitutions: Diced tomatoes + green chilies or mild salsa. More about Rotel Tomatoes.
• Spaghetti: Traditional spaghetti works best, but alternatives include penne, fettuccine, or gluten-free pasta.
• Seasonings: A blend of salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika enhances the dish’s depth of flavor. Customization: Add Cajun seasoning for a Southern twist or Italian herbs for a different flavor profile.
• Chicken Broth & Milk: These help maintain a creamy consistency. Dairy-Free Options: Almond or oat milk, and vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Customizing the Recipe to Your Preference

• Spice Level: Increase heat with extra red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños.
• Vegetable Additions: Bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can be added for extra nutrition.
• Protein Variations: Replace chicken with turkey, shrimp, or ground beef for a different twist.

For more inspiration on adapting this recipe, check out this Pinterest board on comfort food dinners. Whether you’re making it extra cheesy, spicy, or health-conscious, this dish is incredibly flexible!

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making crockpot cheesy chicken spaghetti is incredibly simple. Follow these step-by-step instructions to ensure your dish turns out perfectly creamy, flavorful, and satisfying.

Step 1: Prepare the Crockpot

• Spray the inside of the crockpot with non-stick spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
• Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker.

Step 2: Season & Add Base Ingredients

• Sprinkle the chicken with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
• Pour in the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, Rotel tomatoes, and chicken broth.
• Add Worcestershire sauce to enhance the umami flavor.
• Stir gently to distribute the ingredients while keeping the chicken at the bottom.

Using the right layering technique helps the chicken absorb all the flavors while cooking. If you’re interested in how slow cookers improve ingredient blending, check out this Wikipedia guide on slow cookers.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

• Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
• Avoid opening the lid frequently, as this can slow down the cooking process.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

• Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the crockpot and place it on a cutting board.
• Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
• Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and mix it into the sauce.

For more easy meal ideas, you can browse through this Pinterest board on easy family dinners.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

• Add the Velveeta cheese cubes and shredded cheddar cheese to the crockpot.
• Stir until the cheeses begin to melt into the sauce, creating a smooth, creamy consistency.

If you want to understand why Velveeta cheese melts so well, take a look at its Wikipedia page.

Step 6: Cook & Add Spaghetti

• While the cheese is melting, cook the spaghetti separately until al dente, according to the package instructions.
• Drain the spaghetti and add it to the crockpot, stirring well to coat it in the cheesy sauce.

Cooking the pasta separately ensures it doesn’t become mushy. However, if you prefer cooking it directly in the crockpot, you can add extra chicken broth and cook on low for 30 minutes until tender.

Step 7: Final Touches & Serving

• Pour in the milk and mix well to maintain a silky consistency.
• If you like extra spice, sprinkle in red pepper flakes.
• Cover and let the dish cook on low for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Before serving, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy!

If you love trying new variations of this dish, explore different slow cooker pasta recipes on Pinterest.

Tips for the Best Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti

Making cheesy chicken spaghetti in a crockpot is simple, but a few expert tips can help you achieve the best texture and flavor. Here’s how to make sure your dish turns out perfectly creamy, cheesy, and well-balanced every time.

1. How to Prevent the Cheese from Clumping

• Use Velveeta and freshly shredded cheese. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting.
• Stir frequently after adding cheese. This ensures even distribution and prevents it from sticking to the sides.
• Add the cheese in stages. Let it melt gradually instead of adding it all at once.

For more insights on why Velveeta cheese melts so smoothly, check out its Wikipedia page.

2. Avoid Overcooking the Pasta

• Cook spaghetti separately. Adding uncooked pasta directly to the crockpot can result in a mushy texture.
• Use al dente pasta. Since the spaghetti will continue to absorb sauce, slightly undercooking it helps maintain the right texture.
• Stir gently. Over-stirring can break the pasta and make it too soft.

If you’re looking for more pasta-based slow cooker meals, check out this collection of slow cooker pasta recipes.

3. How to Adjust Spice Levels

• Milder Version: Use plain diced tomatoes instead of Rotel tomatoes.
• Spicier Version: Add extra red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or hot sauce.
• Balanced Heat: Use Pepper Jack cheese instead of cheddar for a subtle kick.

4. How to Thicken the Sauce if Needed

• Let it sit for 10 minutes before serving. The sauce will naturally thicken as it cools.
• Add a cornstarch slurry. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the crockpot.
• Reduce liquid slightly. Cut back on chicken broth if you prefer a thicker sauce.

For more creamy comfort food ideas, browse this collection of comfort food dinner recipes.

5. How to Make the Dish Extra Creamy

• Use half-and-half instead of milk. This enhances the richness of the sauce.
• Add cream cheese. Stir in 4 oz of cream cheese for an ultra-creamy texture.
• Use a mix of cheeses. Combining Velveeta, cheddar, and Monterey Jack creates a deeper flavor profile.

These simple tips will help you make the best cheesy chicken spaghetti every time, whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week.

Variations & Customizations

One of the best things about cheesy chicken spaghetti is how versatile it is. Whether you prefer a spicier kick, a healthier version, or added veggies, this recipe can be easily customized to fit your taste. Here are some creative variations to try.

1. Spicy Version 🌶️

• Use extra hot Rotel tomatoes instead of the original version.
• Add 1-2 diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
• Swap regular cheddar for Pepper Jack cheese to enhance the heat.
• Stir in a few dashes of hot sauce before serving.

If you enjoy spicy meals, check out more ideas in this Pinterest collection of spicy comfort foods.

2. Vegetable-Packed Version 🥦

• Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrients.
• Sauté the veggies before adding them to the crockpot for more depth of flavor.
• Mix in a handful of frozen peas or carrots 10 minutes before serving.

For more veggie-packed comfort food ideas, visit this Pinterest board on healthy comfort food.

3. Protein Swaps 🍗

• Use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for a richer flavor.
• Substitute ground turkey or beef for a heartier, meatier version.
• Try shrimp or sausage for a unique twist.
• Make it vegetarian by using meat substitutes like shredded jackfruit or plant-based chicken.

For more creative protein ideas, check out this guide on chicken as food.

4. Low-Carb/Keto Version 🥑

• Replace spaghetti with zucchini noodles (zoodles) or spaghetti squash.
• Use heavy cream instead of milk to keep it keto-friendly.
• Add more cheese and protein to make it extra satisfying.

Looking for more low-carb recipes? Browse this Pinterest board on low-carb chicken recipes.

5. Dairy-Free Version 🥛

• Swap Velveeta and cheddar for dairy-free cheese alternatives like cashew cheese.
• Use coconut milk or almond milk instead of regular milk.
• Make a homemade creamy base using blended cauliflower and nutritional yeast.

These variations allow you to tailor the dish to your dietary needs while still enjoying its creamy, cheesy goodness!

Storing & Reheating Instructions

Making a big batch of cheesy chicken spaghetti means you’ll likely have leftovers—and the good news is that this dish stores and reheats beautifully! Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or saving extra portions for later, here’s how to keep your spaghetti tasting just as good as the first day.

1. How to Store Leftovers

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Place cooled spaghetti in a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag and store for up to 3 months.
• Best Storage Tip: Divide into portion-sized containers for easy reheating.

If you’re new to meal prepping, check out this Pinterest board on freezer-friendly meals for more ideas.

2. How to Reheat Without Drying Out

• Stovetop: Warm on low heat, stirring frequently, and add a splash of milk or chicken broth to keep it creamy.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, and add a little extra liquid if needed.
• Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 325°F (163°C) for 15–20 minutes until heated through.

3. Can You Freeze Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti?

Yes! To freeze:

• Let the spaghetti cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
• Label with the date and store for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

For more tips on freezing pasta dishes, read this guide on pasta storage and freezing.

With proper storage and reheating, your cheesy chicken spaghetti will stay delicious and creamy, making it a perfect make-ahead meal!

What to Serve with Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti

While cheesy chicken spaghetti is a hearty dish on its own, pairing it with the right sides can enhance the meal even more. Whether you want something light to balance the richness or a comforting side to complement the flavors, here are some perfect pairings.

1. Best Side Dishes 🍽️

• Garlic Bread – The perfect way to scoop up the creamy sauce. Try making homemade garlic bread with butter, minced garlic, and parsley.
• Simple Green Salad – A crisp salad with lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette helps cut through the richness.
• Roasted Vegetables – Roasted broccoli, zucchini, or asparagus add color and texture to your plate.
• Cornbread – A slightly sweet cornbread pairs beautifully with the cheesy, savory pasta.
• Steamed Green Beans – A light, fresh side that balances out the dish.

Looking for more ideas? Browse this Pinterest collection of easy side dishes to find the perfect match for your meal.

2. Beverage Pairings 🍷

• Iced Sweet Tea – A Southern classic that pairs well with cheesy dishes.
• Lemonade – The citrusy brightness helps cleanse the palate.
• White Wine – A light, crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy sauce.
• Sparkling Water with Lemon – A refreshing, non-alcoholic option that balances the richness.

3. Desserts to Pair with Your Meal 🍰

• Classic Banana Pudding – A creamy, sweet dessert that complements the cheesy pasta.
• Chocolate Brownies – Rich and fudgy brownies make for a perfect indulgent treat.
• Fruit Salad – A light and refreshing option after a rich meal.

For more comforting meal pairings, check out this Pinterest board on comfort food dinners.

No matter how you serve it, cheesy chicken spaghetti is a crowd-pleasing dish that pairs well with a variety of sides, drinks, and desserts!

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

To help you make the perfect cheesy chicken spaghetti, here are answers to some of the most common questions about this dish.

1. Can I Use Pre-Cooked Chicken Instead of Raw Chicken?

Yes! If you have leftover rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked shredded chicken, you can use it. Simply skip the slow cooking step and add the chicken when you stir in the cheese. Reduce the cooking time to about 30 minutes on low to allow the flavors to blend.

2. How Do I Make This Dish Less Spicy?

• Use plain diced tomatoes instead of Rotel tomatoes.
• Omit the red pepper flakes and paprika from the seasoning.
• Swap out cheddar for Monterey Jack or mozzarella, which have a milder taste.

For more mild but flavorful recipes, check out this Pinterest board on family-friendly meals.

3. Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?

Absolutely! While spaghetti is the traditional choice, you can use:

• Penne for a chunkier bite
• Fettuccine for a creamier texture
• Gluten-free pasta for a dietary-friendly option

Make sure to cook the pasta separately and add it to the crockpot at the end to prevent it from getting mushy.

4. Why Didn’t My Cheese Melt Properly?

If your cheese turned out lumpy or grainy, here’s why:

• Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Always use freshly shredded cheese.
• Adding cheese too early can cause it to overheat and separate. Add it in the last 30 minutes.
• Stir slowly and consistently to help it melt evenly into the sauce.

Learn more about why certain cheeses melt better on this Wikipedia page about Velveeta cheese.

5. Can I Cook the Pasta Directly in the Crockpot?

Yes, but it requires adjustments. If you want to cook the pasta in the slow cooker:

• Add 2 extra cups of chicken broth to ensure there’s enough liquid.
• Stir in uncooked spaghetti about 30 minutes before serving and cook on low.
• Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

6. Is This Recipe Freezer-Friendly?

Yes! To freeze:

• Let the spaghetti cool completely.
• Store in airtight containers or freezer bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

For more meal prep ideas, check out this Pinterest board on freezer-friendly meals.

7. What’s the Best Way to Make This Dish Healthier?

• Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.
• Swap Velveeta for low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt.
• Use low-sodium chicken broth and soups to reduce salt content.
• Add more veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition.

8. Can I Make This in an Instant Pot?

Yes! To make cheesy chicken spaghetti in an Instant Pot:

1. Add chicken, seasonings, soups, Rotel, and broth to the pot.
2. Set to high pressure for 12 minutes and do a quick release.
3. Remove and shred the chicken.
4. Stir in uncooked spaghetti and cook on the “Sauté” setting for 7–8 minutes until tender.
5. Add cheese and milk, stir until creamy, and serve

Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti is a rich, creamy, and comforting pasta dish made effortlessly in a slow cooker. This easy recipe combines tender shredded chicken, melted Velveeta and cheddar cheese, and flavorful Rotel tomatoes to create a deliciously cheesy sauce that coats every bite of spaghetti. Perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or meal prepping, this slow cooker recipe requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor.

With a blend of pantry-friendly ingredients like canned soups, chicken broth, and seasonings, this dish is as simple as it is satisfying. Whether you prefer a classic version or want to customize it with extra spice, added vegetables, or a healthier twist, this recipe is versatile and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Serve it with garlic bread, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal!

• Author: Clara

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 can (10 oz) Rotel tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 8 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 8 oz spaghetti, broken into thirds
• ½ cup milk
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Spray the inside of a slow cooker with non-stick spray.

Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot and season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.

Add the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, Rotel tomatoes, chicken broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir gently to combine.

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours, until the chicken is tender.

Remove the chicken and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot.

Add the Velveeta cheese and shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted.

Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and add to the crockpot, stirring to coat in the cheesy sauce.

Pour in the milk and mix well. If desired, add red pepper flakes for a slight kick.

Cover and cook on low for an additional 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

 

Notes

• Cheese Choice: Use freshly shredded cheddar for the best melt. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
• Prevent Mushy Pasta: Cook the spaghetti separately and stir it into the crockpot just before serving.
• Spice Control: Swap Rotel tomatoes for plain diced tomatoes if you prefer a milder version. For extra heat, add jalapeños or hot sauce.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating Tips: Add a splash of milk or chicken broth when reheating to maintain creaminess.
• Make It Healthier: Use whole wheat pasta, reduced-fat cheese, and low-sodium soups to lighten up the dish.
• Slow Cooker Alternative: If short on time, make this dish in an Instant Pot by pressure cooking the chicken and adding spaghetti in the last step.