Chicken Spaghetti is a classic comfort food that brings together the best of both worlds: tender chicken and hearty spaghetti. This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, making it a favorite for busy weeknights or special occasions. The combination of creamy mushroom soup, sharp cheddar cheese, and a blend of flavorful spices creates a rich and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.
Why We Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons to love this Chicken Spaghetti recipe. Firstly, it’s a one-pot wonder, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal. Secondly, the ingredients are readily available and affordable, making it a budget-friendly option. Lastly, the flavors are perfectly balanced, with the creaminess of the soup and cheese complementing the savory chicken and the slight kick from the cayenne pepper.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken
- 3 cups dry spaghetti, broken into two-inch pieces
- 2 cans cream of mushroom soup
- 2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup finely diced green pepper
- 1/4 cup finely diced onion
- 1 jar (4-ounce) diced pimentos, drained
- 2 cups reserved chicken broth from pot
- 1 teaspoon Lawry’s Seasoned Salt
- 1/8 teaspoon (to 1/4 teaspoon) cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup additional grated sharp cheddar cheese
How to Make This Recipe
- Prepare the Chicken and Spaghetti:
- Start by cooking the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- If you haven’t already, cook the chicken and reserve 2 cups of the chicken broth. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large pot, combine the cooked spaghetti, shredded chicken, cream of mushroom soup, 2 cups of grated cheddar cheese, diced green pepper, diced onion, diced pimentos, and the reserved chicken broth.
- Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Season the Mixture:
- Add Lawry’s Seasoned Salt, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir again to incorporate the seasonings.
- Cook the Mixture:
- Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors have melded together and the spaghetti has absorbed some of the liquid.
- Add Additional Cheese:
- Sprinkle the additional 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese over the top of the mixture. Stir gently to combine.
- Serve:
- Transfer the Chicken Spaghetti to a serving dish and enjoy immediately while hot.
Success Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients:
- While canned and pre-packaged ingredients are convenient, using fresh vegetables and homemade chicken broth can elevate the flavors of this dish.
- Cook Spaghetti Al Dente:
- Overcooking the spaghetti can result in a mushy texture. Cook it just until al dente for the best results.
- Adjust Seasonings:
- Taste the mixture as you go and adjust the seasonings to your liking. Some may prefer more cayenne for a spicier kick, while others may want to add more cheese for extra creaminess.
Storage
- Refrigerator:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to restore moisture.
- Freezer:
- This dish can also be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Notes
- Substitutions:
- Feel free to substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or cream of celery soup if preferred.
- You can also use rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy option.
- Variations:
- Add additional vegetables like diced tomatoes, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
- For a creamier texture, stir in a bit of heavy cream or milk before serving.
Nutrition
This recipe serves approximately 6-8 people. The nutritional information per serving is as follows:
- Calories: 450
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 1200mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 30g
FAQs
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the Chicken Spaghetti up to a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving.
- Can I use a different type of pasta?
- While spaghetti is traditional, you can use other types of pasta like penne or fusilli. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Is this recipe gluten-free?
- This recipe is not gluten-free due to the spaghetti. However, you can use gluten-free pasta as a substitute.
Conclusion
Chicken Spaghetti is a timeless dish that brings comfort and joy to the dinner table. With its rich flavors, creamy texture, and hearty ingredients, it’s no wonder why this recipe is a favorite among families. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests, this Chicken Spaghetti recipe is sure to be a hit. So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy a delicious meal that everyone will love.