Chicken Spaghetti

If you’re looking for a creamy, comforting, and family-friendly meal, Chicken Spaghetti is a perfect choice! This dish is a delicious combination of tender chicken, pasta, a creamy sauce, and melted cheese. Whether you’re serving it for dinner on a busy weeknight or preparing a meal for a crowd, Chicken Spaghetti is sure to be a hit. It’s easy to make, filling, and packed with flavor—an all-around winner for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Spaghetti is the ultimate comfort food, offering a satisfying mix of creamy, cheesy goodness with the hearty texture of pasta and tender chicken. This dish is not only quick and easy to prepare, but it also offers great leftovers that taste even better the next day. The combination of the creamy sauce, bell peppers, onions, and chicken provides a perfect balance of flavor and texture, making it a dish the whole family will enjoy. Plus, it’s versatile—add in some veggies or switch up the protein to suit your preferences!

this Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 12 oz spaghetti or any pasta of your choice
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup chicken broth (or more if needed)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
2. Sauté vegetables: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, bell pepper (if using), and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
3. Make the sauce: Add the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, and milk to the skillet. Stir to combine. Add the paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is heated through and slightly thickened.
4. Add chicken and cheese: Stir in the shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese until the cheese is melted and the chicken is evenly distributed throughout the sauce.
5. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add more chicken broth or milk until you reach your desired consistency.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot, and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8 servings
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and replace it with a variety of vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for a vegetarian-friendly option. You can also use tofu or a plant-based protein as a substitute.
• Spicy Kick: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. You can also stir in some hot sauce for extra flavor.
• Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti: For extra cheesiness, mix in some mozzarella cheese or cream cheese into the sauce, or top the finished dish with more cheese and bake it until golden and bubbly.
• Slow Cooker Version: Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. Stir in the cooked pasta towards the end of the cooking time for the perfect consistency.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover Chicken Spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce, as it may thicken after cooling.

For longer storage, you can freeze Chicken Spaghetti for up to 2-3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. To reheat from frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat in the oven or on the stovetop.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, you can use other types of pasta, such as penne, rotini, or fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the Chicken Spaghetti in advance. Assemble the dish, cover it with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate it for up to 1-2 days before baking or serving. You may need to add a little more liquid when reheating.

3. Can I use cooked rotisserie chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great option for this recipe! It saves time and adds flavor to the dish. Just shred the chicken before adding it to the sauce.

4. Can I make this without cream of chicken or mushroom soup?

If you’d prefer to avoid canned soups, you can make a homemade cream sauce by combining heavy cream, milk, and a roux (butter and flour) along with chicken broth. This will create a similar creamy texture and flavor.

5. Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! You can add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, spinach, or peas. Just sauté them with the onions and bell peppers at the beginning of the recipe.

6. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! You can substitute the cheddar and Parmesan cheese with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorite cheeses. Cream cheese can also be added for extra creaminess.

7. Can I bake Chicken Spaghetti?

Yes! If you like a crispy topping, transfer the Chicken Spaghetti to a baking dish, top it with additional cheese, and bake it at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

8. Can I make this recipe without meat?

Yes, you can skip the chicken and replace it with a variety of vegetables, or even use a plant-based protein for a vegetarian or vegan version.

9. How do I keep Chicken Spaghetti from drying out?

To prevent the dish from drying out, make sure to add enough sauce, and if needed, add a little extra chicken broth or milk when reheating.

10. How do I freeze Chicken Spaghetti?

To freeze Chicken Spaghetti, let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the oven.

Conclusion

Chicken Spaghetti is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish that’s perfect for a family meal, potluck, or any occasion when you want something easy and delicious. With its rich flavors, tender chicken, and hearty pasta, it’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Whether you make it ahead of time, add your favorite veggies, or bake it with extra cheese, this recipe is versatile and easy to customize. Try it out, and you’ll see why it’s such a beloved dish!

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