Chicken Spaghetti

why make this recipe

Chicken Spaghetti is a delicious and comforting dish that brings together the flavors of chicken, cheese, and pasta in a creamy sauce. It’s perfect for a family dinner or when you have friends over. Not only is it simple to make, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser. With just a few ingredients, you can create a hearty meal that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken if you have any.

how to make Chicken Spaghetti

Ingredients:

• 1 lb. spaghetti
• 1 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, seeds and ribs removed, chopped
• 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1 inch pieces
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 tsp. chili powder
• 3 Tbsp. unsalted butter
• 3 Tbsp. all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 1/2 cups shredded cheddar, divided
• Chopped fresh parsley, for serving

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook spaghetti, stirring occasionally, until al dente according to package instructions, about 7 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, heat oil in another large pot over medium heat. Add onion and bell pepper, and cook until softened, about 7 minutes. Transfer to a plate.
4. Season chicken all over with salt, pepper, and chili powder. In the same pot over medium-high heat, cook chicken until golden brown, about 5 minutes. Transfer to another plate.
5. In the same pot over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook for about 1 minute, whisking constantly.
6. Add milk and broth, and cook, stirring occasionally, until thickened, about 5 minutes.
7. Stir in spaghetti, vegetables, chicken, and 1 1/2 cups cheddar. Transfer to a 13 inch x 9 inch baking dish. Top with the remaining 1 cup cheese.
8. Bake chicken spaghetti until bubbly, about 45 minutes. Top with parsley before serving.

how to serve Chicken Spaghetti

Serve Chicken Spaghetti hot, straight from the oven. You can garnish it with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Pair it with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.

how to store Chicken Spaghetti

To store Chicken Spaghetti, let it cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to store it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven or microwave.

tips to make Chicken Spaghetti

1. Make sure to cook the spaghetti al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
2. You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the dish for extra nutrition and flavor.
3. If you’re a fan of spice, consider adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the cream sauce.

variation

Feel free to swap out the chicken for cooked ground turkey or shredded rotisserie chicken. You can also use a different type of cheese, such as mozzarella or gouda, for a twist on the flavor.

FAQs

Q: Can I make Chicken Spaghetti ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare it a day ahead. Just assemble the dish and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it.

Q: Can I use gluten-free pasta?
A: Absolutely! You can use gluten-free spaghetti, and the recipe will still work well.

Q: How can I make this dish creamier?
A: To make it creamier, you can add more cheese or mix in cream cheese to the sauce for extra richness.