A lighter, comforting slow-cooker spaghetti recipe with tender shredded chicken, a creamy tomato sauce, and plenty of flavor while keeping the points lower than traditional cheesy versions.
Servings
6 servings
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1½ lbs (680 g) boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz (225 g) whole wheat spaghetti
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 can (14–15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Creamy Component
- 4 oz reduced-fat cream cheese
- 1 cup reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese
Optional Add-Ins
- Mushrooms
- Spinach
- Zucchini
- Fresh parsley or basil
Equipment
- Slow cooker / crockpot (5–6 quart recommended)
Instructions
1. Add Ingredients to Crockpot
Place into the crockpot:
- chicken breasts
- onion
- garlic
- bell pepper
- diced tomatoes
- crushed tomatoes
- broth
- Italian seasoning
- paprika
- salt
- pepper
- chili flakes if using
Stir gently.
2. Slow Cook
Cook on:
Low
- 6–7 hours
OR
High
- 3–4 hours
Chicken should become tender and easy to shred.
Safe internal temperature:
165∘F
3. Shred the Chicken
Remove chicken from crockpot.
Shred using two forks.
Return shredded chicken back to the sauce.
4. Add Cream Cheese
Cut cream cheese into cubes.
Stir into hot crockpot mixture until melted and smooth.
This creates a creamy sauce without heavy cream.
5. Cook the Spaghetti
Option A (Recommended)
Cook spaghetti separately according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain and add to crockpot before serving.
Option B
Break spaghetti in half and add directly to crockpot during the last 30–40 minutes with extra broth if needed.
Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Finish the Dish
Stir in shredded cheddar cheese.
Taste and adjust seasoning.
Let sit:
- 5 minutes
to thicken slightly.
Serving Suggestions
Top with:
- chopped parsley
- basil
- extra cheese
- cracked black pepper
Serve with:
- roasted broccoli
- side salad
- garlic green beans
Storage
Refrigerator
- Store up to 4 days.
Freezer
- Freeze up to 2 months.
- Thaw overnight before reheating.
Weight Watchers Tips
To keep points lower:
- use whole wheat pasta
- choose reduced-fat cheese
- avoid excess oil or butter
- add extra vegetables for volume
Flavor Variations
Tex-Mex Style
Add:
- corn
- black beans
- taco seasoning
Italian Style
Add:
- spinach
- mushrooms
- basil
Spicy Version
Increase chili flakes or add jalapeños.
