Chicken Spaghetti dish

The Ultimate Chicken Spaghetti Recipe: Creamy, Flavorful, and Easy to Make! 🍝🌿

ByAkim
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Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinner game? This enhanced Chicken Spaghetti recipe is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Packed with creamy, cheesy goodness and loaded with tender chicken and vibrant vegetables, it’s a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

  1. ⭐ Quick and Easy: With simple steps and minimal prep, this dish comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  2. 🌶️ Customizable: This recipe allows you to tweak the ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Want to add some heat? Toss in some red pepper flakes. Prefer a veggie-loaded version? Add mushrooms or zucchini.
  3. 🧀 Kid-Friendly: The creamy, cheesy sauce makes it a hit with kids while also sneaking in some veggies for added nutrition.
  4. 💰 Budget-Friendly: Using pantry staples like spaghetti, chicken, and basic spices, this recipe is cost-effective without compromising on flavor.

Chicken Spaghetti Ingredients

For the Pasta:

  • 🍝 375 grams (about ¾ lb) spaghetti
  • 🧂 Salted water for boiling

For the Sauce:

  • 🫒 2 tablespoons olive oil or canola oil
  • 🧅 1 small onion, chopped
  • 🌶️ ½ red bell pepper, chopped
  • 🥗 ½ green bell pepper, chopped
  • 🍄 1 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
  • 🍗 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb), cubed
  • 🧄 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 🧂 1 teaspoon salt
  • 🌶️ 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 🌱 ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 🧂 ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Creamy Base:

  • 🛒 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 🍗 1½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 🥛 1 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)
  • 🧀 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 🧀 ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Optional Garnishes:

  • 🌿 Chopped fresh parsley
  • 🧀 Extra shredded cheese
  • 🌶️ Crushed red pepper flakes

Chicken Spaghetti Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

  • 🍝 Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

  • 🫒 Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and mushrooms (if using). Cook for 4-5 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

  • 🍗 Add the cubed chicken to the skillet. Cook until it’s white on the outside and starts to brown slightly. Stir in garlic, salt, chili powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the chicken is fully coated in the spices.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

  • 🥄 Sprinkle flour over the chicken and vegetables, stirring to coat evenly. Gradually pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking to combine.
  • 🥘 Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
  • 🧀 Reduce heat to low and stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until fully melted and smooth.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

  • 🍝 Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce. Let it warm through for 2-3 minutes.
  • 🌿 Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley, extra cheese, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little kick.

Tips for Success

  1. ⏲️ Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cooking the spaghetti to al dente ensures it doesn’t become mushy when mixed with the sauce.
  2. 🧀 Shred Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains additives that prevent it from melting smoothly. For the best texture, shred your own.
  3. 🍤 Add Protein Variations: Swap the chicken for shrimp, ground turkey, or even tofu for a different twist.
  4. 🥶 Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.

FAQ

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: ✅ Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta in advance. Store them separately and combine just before serving to keep the pasta from soaking up too much sauce.

Q: Can I freeze this dish? A: ❄️ Yes, chicken spaghetti freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently.

Q: What vegetables can I add to this recipe? A: 🥦 Aside from bell peppers and mushrooms, you can add spinach, zucchini, broccoli, or even peas for extra nutrients and texture.

Conclusion

This enhanced Chicken Spaghetti recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a quick, delicious, and comforting meal. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this dish delivers on flavor and ease. Pair it with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete dinner that’s sure to impress.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and get cooking — your family will thank you!

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