Chicken spaghetti is one of those comfort food classics that can transform any regular meal into a heartwarming, soul-satisfying experience. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a hug in a bowl-perfect for chilly evenings, family gatherings, or anytime you crave something easy but delicious. If you’ve never had it, imagine a creamy, cheesy pasta dish mixed with tender chicken, all baked together to create a mouthwatering harmony of flavors.
What makes chicken spaghetti especially popular is its versatility. You can play around with ingredients, make it spicy or mild, or load it up with more veggies if you want to sneak in some extra nutrition. Plus, with the convenience of using cream of chicken soup as a base, it’s an easy recipe that anyone, even beginners, can master. So, if you’re ready for a dish that’s both cozy and satisfying, let’s dive right into this delightful recipe!
Chicken Spaghetti With Cream Of Chicken Soup Recipe
This recipe combines all the essentials: chicken, pasta, creamy soup, and cheese. The magic lies in how those simple ingredients come together to create something truly indulgent. Whether you’re serving it for dinner on a weekday or making a batch to share with friends, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients Needed
Before you get started, make sure you have everything you need. Here’s a list of the basic ingredients for this dish:
- 2 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless) – This provides the protein base for the dish, giving it that tender, juicy texture.
- 1 can of cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz) – The creamy base that makes the sauce rich and flavorful.
- 1 can of diced tomatoes with green chilies (10 oz) – Adds a little tang and mild heat, balancing out the richness of the cream.
- 1/2 cup of milk – To thin out the soup and give the sauce that velvety consistency.
- 1 onion (finely chopped) – Brings sweetness and a savory depth to the dish.
- 1 bell pepper (chopped) – Adds crunch and a pop of color.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced) – Essential for flavor; garlic elevates everything!
- 8 oz spaghetti – The pasta base, though you can substitute with any other pasta shape you like.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – The cheese binds everything together, creating that perfect melty layer.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – Used for sautéing the chicken and veggies.
- Salt and pepper – To taste; seasoning is key!
- Optional: Crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or fresh herbs for garnish.
Cooking Instructions
Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, it’s time to get cooking. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how to prepare this chicken spaghetti with cream of chicken soup:
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Cook The Chicken
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest.
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Prepare The Pasta
- While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add your spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes).
- Drain and set aside.
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Sauté The Veggies
- In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic.
- Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the veggies are softened and fragrant.
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Combine The Soup Base
- Add the can of cream of chicken soup, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and milk to the skillet with the veggies.
- Stir everything together and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 3-5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
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Shred The Chicken
- While the sauce is simmering, shred the cooked chicken using two forks.
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Assemble The Dish
- Add the shredded chicken and cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated in the creamy sauce.
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Add The Cheese
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until it melts and everything is nice and cheesy.
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Bake (optional)
- For a golden, crispy top, you can transfer the entire mixture to a baking dish and bake at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes until the top is bubbling and golden brown.
Ingredient Insights
Every ingredient in this dish has a reason for being there, contributing not only flavor but texture and richness. Let’s break them down:
- Chicken: The star of the show! Chicken breasts are lean and perfect for absorbing the flavors of the sauce. You can also use rotisserie chicken for even more convenience.
- Cream of chicken soup: This is the shortcut to a creamy, luscious sauce. It’s rich, savory, and thickens up beautifully when mixed with the milk.
- Diced tomatoes with green chilies: They add acidity to cut through the richness of the soup, while the chilies provide just a hint of heat, making the dish more dynamic.
- Cheese: Cheddar is the classic choice here. It’s sharp, melts beautifully, and balances out the creamy soup perfectly. You could also add mozzarella for a stringy texture, or even pepper jack if you like things spicier.
Expert Tips
To make sure your chicken spaghetti is perfect every time, here are some expert tips to keep in mind:
- Cook the chicken well: Make sure you cook the chicken thoroughly before adding it to the dish. Undercooked chicken can ruin the whole meal.
- Customize the cheese: Mix up the types of cheese for a more complex flavor profile. Try a blend of mozzarella and cheddar or even add a bit of Parmesan for a nutty finish.
- Season the pasta water: Don’t forget to salt your pasta water! It’s the one chance to infuse the pasta with flavor before it even hits the sauce.
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Since the pasta will cook more in the sauce, make sure it’s al dente when you drain it. Overcooked pasta can get mushy when baked or mixed into the sauce.
Recipe Variations
The beauty of chicken spaghetti is that you can switch things up based on your preferences or what you have in your pantry. Here are a few variations to consider:
- Spicy Chicken Spaghetti: Add a can of diced green chilies or a teaspoon of chili powder to the sauce for an extra kick. You can also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top before serving.
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and load up on veggies instead. Mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach are great additions. You could also use plant-based chicken alternatives.
- Use Different Meat: Swap the chicken for ground beef, turkey, or even sausage for a different twist on the classic.
- Add Extra Cheese: Love cheese? Top your chicken spaghetti with mozzarella and bake until bubbly and golden for that perfect cheesy crust.
Final Words
Chicken spaghetti is the ultimate comfort food-a hearty, satisfying meal that can feed a crowd or serve as leftovers for days. It’s an easy dish to throw together on a busy weeknight, but it’s also fancy enough for a weekend dinner party. The blend of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and pasta is just unbeatable.