This creamy chicken spaghetti is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, pasta, and a rich sauce to create a mouthwatering meal. It’s super easy to make and perfect for dinner!
I love how this dish comes together quickly. Just boil the pasta, cook the chicken, and mix in that dreamy sauce—dinner is ready! Plus, it always pleases both kids and adults alike! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: Regular spaghetti is a classic choice, but if you want a twist, try whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. Zucchini noodles can also be a fun, lower-carb substitute!
Cooked Chicken: Rotisserie chicken saves time and adds flavor. If you’re vegetarian, swap chicken for cooked mushrooms or chickpeas for a hearty texture.
Cream Soups: If you’re avoiding canned soups, you can make a homemade version using cream, broth, and flour. It’s a bit more work but delicious, plus you control the ingredients!
Cheddar Cheese: While sharp cheddar gives a great flavor, mozzarella or a blend of Italian cheeses work wonderfully too. Vegan cheese is also an option if you’re dairy-free.
How Do I Perfectly Sauté Onions and Garlic?
Sautéing onions and garlic is key to building flavor in this recipe. Here’s how you can do it right:
- Start with medium heat. Too high can burn the garlic, and too low won’t cook the onions properly.
- Add onions and bell peppers first. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until they are soft.
- Add garlic later! Garlic cooks quickly (about a minute), so wait until the onions are nearly done.
- Keep stirring! This ensures even cooking and prevents burning.
With these steps, you’ll have beautifully sautéed onions and garlic that enhance your creamy chicken spaghetti!
How to Make Creamy Chicken Spaghetti
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 ounces spaghetti pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy chicken spaghetti recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. In approximately 10 minutes, you’ll prep the ingredients and cook the pasta, while the rest of the time will be spent on sautéing, mixing, and combining everything together. A quick and comforting dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boil the Spaghetti:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until it’s al dente (that means it’s still a little firm). Drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Throw in the chopped onions and diced bell pepper, sautéing them for about 3-4 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant.
3. Add Garlic and Chicken:
Next, add the minced garlic and let it cook for about 1 minute until you can smell its delicious aroma. Then, mix in the cooked chicken pieces and stir until everything is heated through.
4. Prepare the Creamy Mixture:
In a bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, milk, black pepper, salt, paprika (if using), and oregano. Mix it well until it’s nice and smooth.
5. Combine Everything:
Pour the creamy mixture into the skillet with the chicken and vegetables. Stir everything together gently to combine, letting it warm through on low heat.
6. Toss in the Spaghetti:
Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss it until each strand is evenly coated with the creamy sauce. The pasta will soak up all those tasty flavors!
7. Add Cheese and Final Touches:
Now, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and allow it to melt into the dish, making everything creamy and cheesy. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to let those flavors meld together. Remember to stir occasionally!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Give your creamy chicken spaghetti a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Once it’s perfect, garnish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions for a pop of color and serve warm. Enjoy your comforting dinner!
FAQ for Creamy Chicken Spaghetti
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover roast chicken or rotisserie chicken works wonderfully in this recipe. Just shred or dice it, and it’ll save you some cooking time!
What If I Don’t Have Cream of Mushroom Soup?
No problem! You can substitute it with an extra can of cream of chicken soup or make your own using a mix of cream, broth, and sautéed mushrooms. A homemade white sauce can also work!
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers! Place them in an airtight container and store for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of milk if it seems dry.
How Do I Make This Recipe Healthier?
To lighten it up, you can use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta, reduce the amount of cheese, or substitute some of the cream soup with a homemade vegetable sauce. Adding more veggies like spinach or zucchini can also boost the nutrition!
