This creamy chicken spaghetti is a warm and comforting dish that’s perfect for a busy evening. With tender chicken and a luscious sauce, it’s sure to please everyone at the table!
You can have it on the table in no time—just cook the pasta, mix in the chicken, and let that creaminess work its magic. It’s like a hug in a bowl! 🥰
I love adding a sprinkle of cheese on top right before serving. It makes each bite extra cheesy and delightful. Plus, it’s simple enough that you can whip it up even after a long day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: Regular spaghetti works well here, but feel free to try whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if you prefer. Penne or fettuccine are great substitutes too.
Chicken: I love using boneless chicken breasts for their quick cooking time. You can swap them for shredded rotisserie chicken or even tofu for a vegetarian version!
Soups: The cream of mushroom and chicken soups add creaminess. If you want to skip canned items, you can make a homemade version with heavy cream and mushrooms. Just cook them down to get the right flavor.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar gives a nice sharpness. If you want something milder, use Monterey Jack or even cream cheese for extra creaminess!
Sour Cream: If you’re looking for a lighter option, plain Greek yogurt works wonderfully instead of sour cream.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken can sometimes be tricky, but here are my tips to ensure it’s perfectly done each time:
- Always cut the chicken into evenly sized pieces for even cooking.
- Cook over medium-high heat so it gets a nice browning on the outside – that’s where the flavor comes from!
- Check for doneness using a meat thermometer. It should read 165°F (75°C).
Don’t forget, letting it rest for 5 minutes after cooking keeps it juicy!
How Do I Achieve a Creamy Sauce?
A creamy sauce is all about mixing well. Here’s how to do it right:
- Lower the heat before adding sour cream and cheese to prevent curdling.
- Stir everything together thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors and creaminess.
- If it’s too thick, add a little more chicken broth to reach the desired consistency.
These tips will help you create a luscious, creamy sauce that’s sure to impress!
Creamy Chicken Spaghetti
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz spaghetti pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 medium chicken breasts, diced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced (optional – mix of red and green)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy chicken spaghetti takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 20 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll be enjoying your delicious dinner in about 35 minutes! Perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something quick and comforting.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Spaghetti:
Start by cooking the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. While the oil heats up, season your diced chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken to the skillet and cook until it’s browned and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Cook the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and bell peppers, if using. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes or until they become soft. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it’s fragrant.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Now, lower the heat to medium and stir in the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and paprika if you’re using it. Mix it all together until it’s well combined and heated through.
5. Combine and Coat:
Next, add the cooked chicken back into the skillet along with the pasta you set aside earlier. Stir everything together gently so that the spaghetti is well coated in the creamy sauce.
6. Final Touches:
Reduce the heat to low. Now, add in the sour cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts into the sauce, giving it that deliciously creamy texture.
7. Season and Serve:
Give your dish a taste and adjust the seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed. Finally, garnish your creamy chicken spaghetti with fresh parsley for a pop of color and serve it warm!
Enjoy your easy, comforting creamy chicken spaghetti dinner! It’s a dish that surely warms the heart and delights the taste buds.
FAQ for Creamy Chicken Spaghetti
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti works well, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fettuccine, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
What Can I Substitute for Cream of Mushroom Soup?
If you prefer to avoid canned soups, you can make a homemade sauce using heavy cream, sautéed mushrooms, and a bit of flour as a thickener. This will give you a creamy and flavorful base without the canned ingredient.
How Can I Make This Recipe Lighter?
To make this dish lighter, you can use skinless chicken breasts, reduce the amount of cheese, and substitute full-fat sour cream with Greek yogurt. You can also use low-fat versions of the soups for a lighter sauce.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if it’s too thick. Enjoy your delicious meal again!
