Next, once the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, I remove it from the crockpot. After shredding the chicken with two forks, I toss it back into the creamy goodness. Then, I cook my spaghetti according to the package directions in a separate pot. Once the pasta is al dente, I drain it and combine it with the chicken and sauce mixture. Oh, the creamy texture mixed with the spaghetti is absolutely delightful!
To make it even more special, I stir in half of the grated cheddar cheese and let it melt right in. The combination of flavors is so enticing! Before serving, I sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and cover the crockpot for a few minutes, just enough time to let it melt into a gooey masterpiece. Finally, I add a little salt and pepper to taste, as well as fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Pro Tips for Best Results
One thing I learned during my recipe testing is to ensure that your cream cheese is at room temperature before adding it to the crockpot. When it’s too cold, it doesn’t blend seamlessly, and you might end up with lumps in your sauce. Trust me; I’ve been there, and it’s not the most pleasant experience!
I also recommend adding a splash of white wine to the chicken broth for an extra layer of flavor. It gives the dish a subtle depth that makes it feel more gourmet. I tested this three ways—plain, with broth only, and with broth and wine—and the latter was my hands-down favorite!
Lastly, if you enjoy a bit of kick, feel free to throw in some crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño during the cooking process. I did this once and found that it created a delightful balance between creamy and spicy that my taste buds absolutely adored.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One mistake I’ve made is not seasoning enough. Since the chicken and sauce are quite substantial, people often forget to add enough salt and pepper in the end. It’s a simple thing, but it can make a significant difference! Taste your dish before serving. Don’t hesitate to add more seasoning if needed—your palate will thank you. (See the next page below to continue…)