Craving a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying meal? This Easy Chicken Spaghetti is the perfect comfort food! Packed with tender shredded chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked spaghetti, this dish is a family favorite that’s both hearty and budget-friendly.
Unlike traditional spaghetti with marinara, this recipe features a rich, cheesy sauce made with Rotel tomatoes, cream cheese, and cheddar for the ultimate creamy texture. Ready in 30 minutes, it’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Quick & Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes!
✔️ Creamy & Cheesy – Every bite is packed with rich flavor.
✔️ Perfect for Meal Prep – Reheats well for leftovers.
✔️ Kid-Friendly – A family-approved favorite!
Ingredients for Chicken Spaghetti
For the Pasta & Chicken:
- 12 oz spaghetti (or any pasta of choice)
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or boiled)
- 2 tbsp butter
For the Cheesy Sauce:
- 1 can Rotel tomatoes (diced tomatoes with green chilies)
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
Optional Garnishes:
- ½ cup parmesan cheese (for extra cheesiness)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook spaghetti until al dente (about 8-10 minutes), then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheesy Sauce
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, Rotel tomatoes, cream cheese, and chicken broth. Stir until the cream cheese melts.
- Mix in garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, melting it into the sauce.
Step 3: Assemble the Chicken Spaghetti
- Add shredded chicken to the sauce, stirring to coat.
- Toss in the cooked spaghetti and mix well.
- Transfer to a greased 9x13 baking dish (optional for baking).
Step 4: Add the Final Touches
- Sprinkle with remaining cheddar cheese and parmesan cheese.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
- Garnish with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
Tips for the Best Chicken Spaghetti
🧀 Use Fresh Cheese – Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly.
🔥 Make it Spicy – Add diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper for heat.
🍗 Shredded Rotisserie Chicken Saves Time – A quick & easy shortcut!
🍝 Use Any Pasta – Penne, fettuccine, or macaroni work too!
Easy Variations
🥦 Add Veggies – Mix in sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrients.
🥓 Bacon Lovers’ Version – Top with crispy bacon bits for extra crunch!
🥑 Creamy Avocado Twist – Stir in mashed avocado for a unique flavor.
Storage & Meal Prep
🧊 Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
🔥 Reheat: Warm in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, adding a splash of milk if needed.
❄️ Freeze: Store in a freezer-safe dish for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
💡 Meal Prep Tip: Make the sauce ahead and store it separately, then mix with fresh pasta when ready to serve!
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Protein: 36g
- Carbs: 45g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
FAQs About Chicken Spaghetti
❓ Can I use canned chicken?
Yes! Drain and shred canned chicken for an easy shortcut.
❓ How do I make it without canned soup?
Use a homemade white sauce by mixing butter, flour, milk, and chicken broth for a natural alternative.
❓ Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and flour for a gluten-free version.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Spaghetti is the perfect mix of creamy, cheesy, and comforting flavors. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, potluck, or meal prep, it’s guaranteed to be a hit!
Would you try this recipe? Leave a comment below! 🍝🧀🍗
Comments
Post a Comment