Let’s kick things off! Chicken spaghetti is a delightful and satisfying meal. You can make it the star of a cozy family dinner or a laid-back gathering with friends. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad.
A simple mix of lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers, drizzled with a light vinaigrette, complements the richness of the dish. Garlic bread also makes an excellent companion. Just imagine indulging in a hearty plate of chicken spaghetti, followed by a warm, buttery slice of garlic bread.
An Introduction to Chicken Spaghetti: Why It’s a Great Choice
Now, why should chicken spaghetti be on your radar? First off, it’s incredibly versatile and can fit various tastes and dietary needs. You can throw it together for a weeknight family meal, or it can be dressed up for a potluck. Using ingredients that you likely have on hand means you won’t need to run out to the store, making this a quick and budget-friendly recipe.
As a registered dietitian and home cook, I’ve experimented with countless recipes over the years. Chicken spaghetti stands out for its creamy sauce and hearty texture. The beauty of this dish is that it’s comforting without being a calorie bomb. You get protein from the chicken and a lovely balance of flavors that leaves you feeling satisfied but not sluggish.
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My Experience with Chicken Spaghetti Ingredients
Let’s talk about the star players in this chicken spaghetti ensemble. I love how each ingredient brings its own character while blending seamlessly into the dish.
The spaghetti serves as a perfect base—its long, twirling strands soak up the creamy sauce wonderfully. The boneless, skinless chicken breast fillets provide lean protein that keeps you full. The Ro*Tel diced tomatoes add a pop of zest, while the sharp white cheddar balances the cheese, contributing to a rich flavor profile.
The cream cheese lends a velvety texture, and the Velveeta creates that gooey goodness we all crave. Finally, the cream of mushroom soup enriches the overall taste, while garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika add depth to the seasoning. Fresh parsley is the cherry on top, bringing in a hint of brightness.
Ingredients List
Here’s what you need:
- 1 (16-ounce) box spaghetti pasta: This serves as the heart of the dish.
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast fillets: Lean and full of protein.
- 1 (10-ounce) can Ro*Tel diced tomatoes with green chilies: For that zesty bite.
- 1 cup shredded sharp white cheddar cheese: To add a cheesy layer.
- 4 ounces softened cream cheese: For a creamy texture.
- 1 (16-ounce) block Velveeta processed cheese: For gooey goodness.
- 2 (10.5-ounce) cans creamy mushroom soup: To bind it all together.
- 1 teaspoon granulated garlic powder: To give it that garlicky kick.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: For flavor enhancement.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: To add a hint of smokiness.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: For a fresh finish.
How to Make Chicken Spaghetti
Let’s get cooking! Follow these steps to whip up a delicious chicken spaghetti.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
First, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil, just enough to coat the bottom. Place the chicken breast fillets in the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side or until they are no longer pink inside. Once done, remove them and let them rest for a few minutes.
Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti
While the chicken rests, boil a large pot of water and add a generous pinch of salt. Toss in the spaghetti pasta and cook according to the package instructions. You want it al dente, as it will cook further in the oven later. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet you used for the chicken, combine the Ro*Tel diced tomatoes, cream of mushroom soup, cream cheese, and Velveeta. Stir over medium heat until all the cheeses melt and the mixture is combined. This will be your luscious sauce that ties everything together.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Now, chop the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and add it to the sauce. Then, fold in the drained spaghetti gently. You want to make sure every strand is coated in that creamy goodness. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Mix well.
Step 5: Bake the Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer everything into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with shredded sharp white cheddar cheese and bake uncovered for about 30 minutes. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Once the cheese is bubbling, and the edges are golden brown, remove the dish from the oven. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor before serving. Enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Recipe Notes
Let’s break down the ingredients a bit more.
- Spaghetti Pasta: Choose any shape you prefer. While traditional spaghetti works, penne or rotini would also be delightful.
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken: You can use leftover rotisserie chicken for a shortcut.
- Ro*Tel Diced Tomatoes: If you prefer milder flavors, opt for regular diced tomatoes without green chilies.
- Sharp White Cheddar Cheese: Feel free to use your favorite cheese. Pepper jack adds a nice kick!
- Cream Cheese: Ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- Velveeta: While processed cheese lends a specific flavor, you could use fresh cheese, just be mindful of melting.
- Creamy Mushroom Soup: This can be substituted with chicken soup if you prefer.
- Spices: Adjust the spices according to your taste preferences; adding crushed red pepper flakes can spice it up.
Recipe Variations
You can adapt this dish to make it your own! Here are a few fun ideas:
- Vegetable Loaded: Add chopped bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli for extra nutrients.
- Spicy Kick: Toss in some jalapeños or a touch of hot sauce to heat things up.
- Cheese Lovers Unite: Mix in mozzarella or Gouda for a different cheese flavor.
- Herbaceous Delight: Add dried thyme or Italian seasoning to elevate the taste further.
- Creamy Alfredo Spin: Replace the mushroom soup with Alfredo sauce.
- Low-Carb Option: Try using zucchini noodles instead of pasta for a lighter version.
Conclusion
In summary, chicken spaghetti is more than just a meal. It’s a comforting dish with layers of flavor and texture. It’s straightforward in preparation and can fit multiple dietary preferences. Whether you’re hosting a dinner, meal prepping, or simply craving a hearty dish, chicken spaghetti delivers every time.
I hope you find joy in the kitchen while making this delightful recipe. Don’t forget to share it with family and friends—they will love it! Cooking shouldn’t just fill up your plate; it should warm your heart too. So, grab your apron and get started. Your next favorite dish awaits!
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Chicken Spaghetti – Cheap Delicious Meals
Description
Now, why should chicken spaghetti be on your radar? First off, it’s incredibly versatile and can fit various tastes and dietary needs. You can throw it together for a weeknight family meal, or it can be dressed up for a potluck. Using ingredients that you likely have on hand means you won’t need to run out to the store, making this a quick and budget-friendly recipe.
As a registered dietitian and home cook, I’ve experimented with countless recipes over the years. Chicken spaghetti stands out for its creamy sauce and hearty texture. The beauty of this dish is that it’s comforting without being a calorie bomb. You get protein from the chicken and a lovely balance of flavors that leaves you feeling satisfied but not sluggish.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Let’s get cooking! Follow these steps to whip up a delicious chicken spaghetti.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
-
First, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil, just enough to coat the bottom. Place the chicken breast fillets in the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side or until they are no longer pink inside. Once done, remove them and let them rest for a few minutes.
Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti
-
While the chicken rests, boil a large pot of water and add a generous pinch of salt. Toss in the spaghetti pasta and cook according to the package instructions. You want it al dente, as it will cook further in the oven later. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
-
In the same skillet you used for the chicken, combine the Ro*Tel diced tomatoes, cream of mushroom soup, cream cheese, and Velveeta. Stir over medium heat until all the cheeses melt and the mixture is combined. This will be your luscious sauce that ties everything together.
Step 4: Combine Everything
-
Now, chop the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and add it to the sauce. Then, fold in the drained spaghetti gently. You want to make sure every strand is coated in that creamy goodness. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Mix well.
Step 5: Bake the Dish
-
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer everything into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Top with shredded sharp white cheddar cheese and bake uncovered for about 30 minutes. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Step 6: Finish and Serve
-
Once the cheese is bubbling, and the edges are golden brown, remove the dish from the oven. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor before serving. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 8
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 526kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 24.1g38%
- Saturated Fat 9.7g49%
- Trans Fat 9g
- Cholesterol 65mg22%
- Sodium 3699mg155%
- Total Carbohydrate 56g19%
- Dietary Fiber 3g12%
- Sugars 16g
- Protein 22g44%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Let’s break down the ingredients a bit more.
- Spaghetti Pasta: Choose any shape you prefer. While traditional spaghetti works, penne or rotini would also be delightful.
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken: You can use leftover rotisserie chicken for a shortcut.
- Ro*Tel Diced Tomatoes: If you prefer milder flavors, opt for regular diced tomatoes without green chilies.
- Sharp White Cheddar Cheese: Feel free to use your favorite cheese. Pepper jack adds a nice kick!
- Cream Cheese: Ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- Velveeta: While processed cheese lends a specific flavor, you could use fresh cheese, just be mindful of melting.
- Creamy Mushroom Soup: This can be substituted with chicken soup if you prefer.
Spices: Adjust the spices according to your taste preferences; adding crushed red pepper flakes can spice it up.
