Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti
Creamy and Delicious Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti
This Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti is a comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, flavorful cheese, and al dente pasta into one delightful meal. It’s the perfect way to satisfy your cravings for something hearty yet nurturing. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a busy weeknight, this recipe is easy to whip up and promises to be a hit with the whole family.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 520
- Protein: 38g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
Why Make This Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti
Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti is not just about taste; it’s a complete meal that combines protein, carbs, and plenty of cheesy goodness. The richness from the cream cheese and the blend of melted cheddar and mozzarella create an irresistible dish that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly simple to make. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or when you just want to treat yourself, this dish is versatile enough for any occasion. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use leftover chicken!
How to Make Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti
Ingredients:
- 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
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Step 1: Preparation
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking dish with nonstick spray. This will help prevent the cheesy goodness from sticking to the dish while baking.
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Step 2: Cooking the Chicken
Dice chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté chicken until golden brown, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and dried Italian herbs to enhance the flavor.
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Step 3: Boiling the Pasta
Meanwhile, boil the spaghetti according to package instructions until it’s al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the spaghetti to help adjust the sauce later.
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Step 4: Mixing Ingredients
In the same skillet with the cooked chicken, lower the heat and add minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant. Then mix in the cream cheese and half of the shredded cheeses until everything is melted and well-combined. Stir in the reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired sauce consistency. Finally, add the drained spaghetti and the chicken mixture, stirring well to combine everything.
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Step 5: Baking
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, ensuring it’s evenly spread out. Top with the remaining shredded cheese and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
How to Serve Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti
Serve Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti hot out of the oven, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor. It pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. This dish also shines as a hearty lunch option the next day, giving you a delicious way to use leftovers.
How to Store Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti
Once cooled, cover any leftover Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Expert Tips for Perfect Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti
- Chicken Substitutions: You can use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken to save time.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as pepper jack for a spicy kick or a blend of Italian cheeses for added flavor.
- Add Vegetables: Sneak in some veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and color.
- Adjusting Creaminess: If you prefer a creamier sauce, add more cream cheese or reserve a bit more pasta water until it reaches your preferred consistency.
Delicious Variations
- Spicy Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the chicken mixture for a bit of heat.
- Veggie-Loaded Version: Include roasted vegetables like zucchini and carrots for a healthier twist.
- Herby Delight: Top with fresh herbs before serving for an aromatic touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate it unbaked for up to 24 hours. Bake it just before serving. -
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
You can substitute cream cheese with cottage cheese or ricotta cheese for a lighter alternative. -
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Cut into a piece to ensure the middle is no longer pink. -
Can I use whole wheat spaghetti?
Absolutely! Whole wheat spaghetti is a great choice for added fiber and nutrients. -
What should I do if it’s too dry?
If your dish seems dry, add a splash more of chicken broth or milk until you reach your desired consistency before baking.
Conclusion
Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti is a comforting, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture, penchant for cheesy flavors, and ease of preparation, it’s sure to become a staple in your home. The blend of chicken, pasta, and cheese creates an inviting dish that everyone will love. So roll up your sleeves and give this recipe a try — your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Creamy and Delicious Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, flavorful cheese, and al dente pasta into one delightful meal, perfect for family dinners or busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Dice chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté chicken until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and dried Italian herbs.
- Boil the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In the same skillet, lower the heat and add minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant. Mix in cream cheese and half of the shredded cheeses until melted and combined. Stir in reserved pasta water to adjust sauce consistency. Add drained spaghetti and chicken mixture, stirring well.
- Transfer the mixture to the baking dish, top with remaining cheese, and bake for about 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Notes
This dish can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated unbaked for up to 24 hours. It also freezes well for up to 3 months. Experiment with different cheeses or add vegetables for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
