Creamy Chicken Spaghetti
If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that’s sure to please a crowd, look no further than this creamy chicken spaghetti. It’s a delightful blend of tender chicken, al dente spaghetti, and a velvety sauce that wraps everything in a delicious embrace. Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep for the week, this recipe is as satisfying as it is simple to make. Let’s dive into the details!
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
- Rich and Creamy: The creamy sauce is a luxurious addition that elevates simple spaghetti to something extraordinary.
- Versatile: Customize with your favorite vegetables or proteins to make it uniquely yours.
- Kid-Friendly: It’s a great way to get kids to enjoy their pasta with a nutritious twist.
What Goes Into Creamy Chicken Spaghetti
- 10 ounces dry spaghetti noodles: The base of our dish, providing that classic pasta texture.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: For sautéing and adding richness.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: A flavor booster that brings depth to the sauce.
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped: Adds a nice crunch and color.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: To help thicken the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that enhances the flavor profile.
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream: For that luscious, creamy texture.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and flavor to the sauce.
- 1 cup milk: Balances the richness of the cream.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully, adding gooey goodness.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, ensuring the dish is perfectly seasoned.
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken: The star protein that makes this dish hearty.
- 14 ounces diced tomatoes, drained (1 can): Adds a touch of sweetness and acidity.
Hardware & Gadgets
- Large pot: For boiling the spaghetti noodles.
- Skillet: To prepare the creamy sauce.
- Whisk: Essential for mixing the sauce ingredients smoothly.
- Colander: For draining the pasta.
- Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accuracy in your ingredients.
- Spatula: For stirring and combining the ingredients in the skillet.
Creamy Chicken Spaghetti: How It’s Done
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the 10 ounces of dry spaghetti noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the spaghetti in a colander and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 1 clove of minced garlic and the chopped green bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the bell pepper is tender and the garlic is fragrant.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Sprinkle 1 cup of all-purpose flour over the sautéed vegetables, stirring continuously for about 1 minute to cook off the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of heavy whipping cream, followed by 1 cup of chicken broth and 1 cup of milk. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken.
Step 4: Season the Sauce
Stir in 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Add the 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken and drained 14 ounces of diced tomatoes to the sauce. Stir well to combine everything. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes to heat through and allow the flavors to meld.
Step 6: Add the Spaghetti
Finally, add the cooked spaghetti noodles to the skillet, tossing gently to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce. Sprinkle in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and stir until melted and incorporated.
Ingredient Flex Options
- Protein: Substitute shredded rotisserie chicken for ease or use diced turkey or even cooked shrimp.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for added nutrition.
- Cheese: Swap mozzarella for cheddar or a blend of your favorites.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free spaghetti to accommodate dietary needs.
Recipe Notes & Chef’s Commentary
This creamy chicken spaghetti is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand. The richness of the sauce can be tempered by using less cream and more broth if you prefer a lighter dish. Additionally, if you love a kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat!
- For a more complex flavor, try adding a splash of white wine to the sauce.
- This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated, making it perfect for meal prep.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness.
Cooling, Storing & Rewarming
Leftover creamy chicken spaghetti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To cool, allow the dish to come to room temperature before sealing it. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat in the microwave in 30-second increments until warmed through, or in a skillet over medium heat. You may want to add a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce as it may thicken when refrigerated.
Creamy Chicken Spaghetti FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cooked chicken. Just ensure it is thawed and shredded before adding it to the sauce.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Creamy chicken spaghetti keeps well in the fridge and can be portioned out for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Can I freeze creamy chicken spaghetti?
Yes, you can freeze this dish. Just make sure to cool it completely, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
What can I serve with creamy chicken spaghetti?
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Next Up in Your Queue
- Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
- One-Pot Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo
- Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole
- Vegetable Lasagna
Ready, Set, Cook
Now that you have the recipe for creamy chicken spaghetti, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking. This dish promises to be a hit at your dining table. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share your delicious creation with friends and loved ones!
Creamy Chicken Spaghetti
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the 10 ounces of dry spaghetti noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the spaghetti in a colander and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 1 clove of minced garlic and the chopped green bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the bell pepper is tender and the garlic is fragrant.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of all-purpose flour over the sautéed vegetables, stirring continuously for about 1 minute to cook off the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of heavy whipping cream, followed by 1 cup of chicken broth and 1 cup of milk. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add the 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken and drained 14 ounces of diced tomatoes to the sauce. Stir well to combine everything. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes to heat through and allow the flavors to meld.
- Finally, add the cooked spaghetti noodles to the skillet, tossing gently to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce. Sprinkle in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and stir until melted and incorporated.
Notes
- For a more complex flavor, try adding a splash of white wine to the sauce.
- This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated, making it perfect for meal prep.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness.
