Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti is a creamy, comforting dish that combines the flavors of tender chicken, rich spaghetti, and a velvety mozzarella sauce, all cooked to perfection in the convenience of a slow cooker. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, as it's easy to prepare and requires minimal supervision, allowing you to focus on other tasks while the magic happens. With its delicious blend of flavors and textures, Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti is a crowd-pleaser that's sure to become a staple in your household. Whether you're in the mood for a comforting, warm meal or a quick, easy dinner, this recipe has got you covered.
Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
Ingredients:
* 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
* 1 medium onion, sliced
* 2 cloves of garlic, minced
* 1 cup of chopped fresh mushrooms
* 1 cup of spaghetti
* 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
* 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
* 1 tsp dried oregano
* 1 tsp dried basil
* 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
* 1 cup of creamy chicken broth
* Salt and pepper, to taste
* 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. Place the chicken in the slow cooker.
2. Add the sliced onion, minced garlic, chopped mushrooms, and olive oil to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
3. Add the spaghetti, mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth to the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine.
4. Cook the mixture on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, stir the mixture and add additional mozzarella cheese if desired.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley and additional mozzarella cheese, if desired.
Tips and Variations:
* To add some extra flavor, sauté the onions and garlic in olive oil before adding them to the slow cooker.
* Use different types of cheese, such as Parmesan or provolone, to change up the flavor profile.
* Add some heat to the dish by incorporating red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
* Swap out the chicken broth for chicken stock or beef broth for a different flavor.
* Use leftover cooked spaghetti instead of fresh spaghetti for a quicker cooking time.
* For a creamier sauce, stir in some heavy cream or half-and-half towards the end of the cooking time.
* Experiment with different spices, such as paprika or cumin, to add a unique flavor to the dish.
Other Version Ideas:
* Crockpot Chicken Fajita Spaghetti: Add diced bell peppers, sliced jalapeños, and a sprinkle of cumin for a fajita-inspired twist.
* Crockpot Italian-Style Chicken Spaghetti: Add some Italian seasoning, diced bell peppers, and sliced olives for a taste of Italy.
* Crockpot White Chicken Spaghetti: Omit the tomatoes and add some garlic powder, chopped parsley, and a pinch of nutmeg for a creamy, white sauce.
* Crockpot Spicy Chicken Spaghetti: Add some diced hot peppers, sliced jalapeños, and a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
With these tips and variations, you can create a delicious and customized Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti dish that suits your taste preferences. Enjoy!