# Slow Cooker Chicken Spaghetti: A Luscious, Cheesy Favorite for Families
This slow cooker chicken spaghetti is an exquisite meal that melds succulent chicken with rich, creamy cheese. Utilizing basic ingredients from your pantry, it delivers a soothing flavor that makes it an ideal selection for family gatherings. The slow cooker manages most of the preparation, letting you savor a homemade dish with little effort on the stovetop.
## Reasons to Prepare It
– **Ease**: The slow cooker takes care of the chicken and sauce foundation, simplifying dinner preparation and eliminating stress.
– **Taste**: This meal is rich and savory, with zesty tomatoes, spices, and an abundance of melted cheese.
– **Suggested Equipment**: A 6-quart slow cooker works best for this dish.
## Suggestions for Serving
Enjoy your chicken spaghetti alongside a crisp green salad or some freshly made garlic bread for a fulfilling and complete meal.
## Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken Spaghetti
– **Chicken Breast**: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts shred effortlessly after cooking. Boneless thighs can also be used for added flavor depth.
– **Pepper**: Red bell pepper introduces sweetness, while green pepper brings a more savory profile.
– **Rotel Tomatoes**: Make sure to drain thoroughly to maintain a creamy sauce. Opt for mild for a family-pleasing taste or hot for extra spice.
– **Evaporated Milk**: Contributes a creamy consistency; do not substitute with condensed milk as it is sweetened.
– **Cheese**: Grate cheese from a block for improved melting. Colby Jack or sharp cheddar are excellent choices, with pre-grated Parmesan integrating smoothly into the sauce.
– **Alterations**: Include a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for spiciness, or add more vegetables like mushrooms or spinach. For a lighter sauce, lessen the amount of cheddar used.
## Instructions for Preparing Slow Cooker Chicken Spaghetti
1. Lay the chicken and bell pepper at the base of a 6-quart slow cooker.
2. Incorporate the drained diced tomatoes, chicken broth, crumbled bouillon cube, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
3. Cover and cook on LOW for 5 to 6 hours or HIGH for 2½ to 3 hours.
4. When the chicken is tender, cook the pasta al dente according to the package instructions.
5. Take out the chicken and shred it. Mix cornstarch with evaporated milk, then blend into the sauce in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on HIGH for 15 minutes or until thickened.
6. Return the shredded chicken to the pot along with the cheese and the cooked spaghetti. Stir and cook for another 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is melted.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.
### Success Tips
– **For a Decadent and Creamy Sauce**: Ensure the tomatoes are well-drained.
– **For Ideal Noodles**: Cook the spaghetti just before fully done, as it will soften more in the slow cooker.
– **For a Silky Sauce**: Whisk the cornstarch and evaporated milk until fully smooth before adding to prevent lumps.
– **If Sauce Becomes Too Thick**: Stir in a bit of warm broth or milk to reach the desired thickness.
## Save for Later
– Keep leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
– Freeze the chicken and sauce (without pasta) for up to 3 months. Thaw, mix with freshly cooked pasta, and reheat with a splash of milk or broth.
### Nutritional Information (per serving)
– **Calories**: 678
– **Carbohydrates**: 50g
– **Protein**: 59g
– **Fat**: 26g
– **Sodium**: 1271mg
– **Fiber**: 3g
This slow cooker chicken spaghetti is not only simple to prepare but also bursting with flavor, making it an excellent dish for cozy family evenings. Enjoy!