Hey there, friends! If you’re like me, life can get hectic—between work, family, and the ever-present laundry mountains, it’s hard to find time to whip up something delicious. That’s why I’m thrilled to share this quick and delightful Chicken Spaghetti recipe with you! It’s not only easy to prepare, but it’s also loaded with flavors that will have your loved ones begging for seconds. Trust me, this dish is about to become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Spaghetti

Imagine tender chicken breasts, al dente spaghetti, and a creamy, cheesy sauce that coats every bite—sounds heavenly, right? This Chicken Spaghetti isn’t just a meal; it’s a hug on a plate! Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re hosting friends, this dish comes together effortlessly and delivers big on flavor. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in a few veggies using those vibrant tomatoes and green chilies!

Finally, let’s dive in and see what you need to create this culinary masterpiece.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this delicious Chicken Spaghetti to life:

2 small boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons butter
1 small yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 tablespoons flour
1 1/2 cups chicken broth
3/4 cup milk
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
10 oz diced tomatoes with green chilies
8 oz thin spaghetti
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
Red pepper flakes, for garnish
Chopped parsley, for garnish

Cooking Steps to Flavor Town

Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your savory Chicken Spaghetti:

Preheat your oven to 400°F. This is important because we want all that cheesy goodness to bubble and brown!
If you’re using fresh chicken, slice the breasts in half lengthwise. Season them with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, and sauté the chicken for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they’re beautifully golden. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside. When it’s cool enough, chop it into bite-sized pieces.
In the same skillet, let’s keep the flavor train rolling! Melt the butter and add the diced onion. Cook until softened, about 4 minutes, and then throw in the minced garlic for the last minute—that’s where the magic happens!
Sprinkle the flour over the onions and give it a good stir. Cook for 2 minutes so the flour can lose its raw taste. Now, slowly pour in the chicken broth and milk, whisking until you have a silky, smooth sauce.
While the sauce simmers, bring a pot of salted water to a boil for your spaghetti. Cook it according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
Here comes the creamy part! Stir in the softened cream cheese until it melts smoothly into the sauce. Follow that up with the shredded cheddar cheese, and mix until everything is nicely combined.
Now, if you want to take this dish to the next level (and who doesn’t?), you can thin out your sauce with some juice from the diced tomatoes if you like. Stir in the tomatoes and your diced chicken, and it’s time for the showstopper—the cooked spaghetti! Mix everything until it’s nicely coated.
If you’re not using an oven-safe pot, transfer your delicious mix to a lightly greased 9×13 casserole dish.
Top it all off with that heavenly mozzarella cheese, and pop it into the oven for 15 minutes. If you’re feeling a bit adventurous and want that golden brown top, broil it for an additional 1-2 minutes, watching closely (because burnt cheese is not the goal here!).
Once it’s out of the oven, garnish the masterpiece with red pepper flakes and chopped parsley. Voilà! Dinner is served, and your home will smell like a cozy Italian restaurant.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Chicken Spaghetti

Leftover Love: If you have leftover rotisserie chicken, feel free to use it. It’s a great time-saver and makes for a super simple weeknight meal.
Cheese Tip: For the creamiest sauce, shred your own cheese from a block. Bagged shredded cheese often has additives that can make it clump instead of melt beautifully.
Picky Eaters: If you’re dealing with picky eaters, try sneaking in some veggies. Finely chop some bell peppers or spinach and mix them into the sauce!

FAQs About Chicken Spaghetti

Can I substitute chicken for another protein in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use cooked shrimp or even mushrooms for a vegetarian version. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly.

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Chicken Spaghetti in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to loosen it up.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare everything and keep it unbaked in your casserole dish in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve!

This Chicken Spaghetti is sure to become a staple in your home, bringing smiles and satisfied bellies around the dinner table. So, gather your ingredients and get ready for a delightful evening filled with comfort food that’s impressively easy to make.

And remember, cooking should be fun! Don’t stress, turn on some music, pour yourself a glass of your favorite drink, and let’s create some magic in the kitchen together. Happy cooking, my friends! 🌼🍽️