This creamy chicken spaghetti is a family favorite! With tender chicken, spaghetti noodles, and a rich sauce, it’s simple and satisfying on busy nights.
I love how quick this dish is to whip up! Just cook, mix, and serve. Perfect for those evenings when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti Noodles: Regular spaghetti works great, but if you’re gluten-free, try using quinoa or brown rice pasta. It still holds up well in creamy sauces.
Olive Oil: You can substitute with vegetable or canola oil for a neutral flavor. I often love using avocado oil for a bit of extra richness.
Cooked Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a time-saver here. You can also use turkey, or for a meat-free version, chickpeas or sautéed mushrooms work nicely.
Cream Cheese: If you’re watching calories, a low-fat version can be used. Alternatively, Greek yogurt adds creaminess without the extra fat!
Cream of Mushroom Soup: You can choose homemade or swap for cream of chicken if you prefer. For a vegan option, use a plant-based creamer with sautéed veggies in place of the soup.
Cheddar Cheese: While I love sharp cheddar, feel free to use mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different flavor. Or mix a variety of cheeses for a cheesy experience!
How Do You Create the Perfect Creamy Sauce?
Making the sauce creamy is key to this dish! Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start by sautéing the onions and garlic to build flavor before adding the chicken.
- Whisk the cream cheese, milk, and soup thoroughly in a bowl – this ensures no lumps and a smooth consistency.
- When you combine the sauce with the chicken and onions, keep your heat low to avoid curdling the cream cheese.
- Lastly, adding cheese at the end ensures a gooey melt. Stir until it’s fully melted into the sauce.
This method guarantees a deliciously creamy sauce that coats your spaghetti beautifully!
Creamy Chicken Spaghetti
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 8 ounces spaghetti noodles
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll spend about 15 minutes prepping and around 15 minutes cooking. So in total, you’re looking at about 30 minutes to have this creamy chicken spaghetti ready to serve. Quick and easy for a delicious dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Spaghetti:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti noodles and cook them according to the package instructions until they’re al dente (cooked but still firm). Drain the noodles and set them aside for later.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes or until the onion becomes soft and fragrant. This step builds a wonderful flavor base for your dish!
3. Add the Chicken:
Once your onion and garlic are ready, add the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir it all together to combine, letting the chicken heat through for a couple of minutes.
4. Make the Creamy Mixture:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese, milk, and cream of mushroom soup until you have a smooth mixture. This is what will make the dish creamy and delicious!
5. Combine and Heat:
Pour the creamy mixture into the skillet with the chicken and onion. Stir everything together really well. Keep the heat on low and cook for about 5-7 minutes until everything is heated through and slightly thickened.
6. Add Cheese and Season:
Now, it’s time to add the shredded cheddar cheese and paprika to the sauce. Stir until the cheese is totally melted and all combined, creating a wonderful creamy sauce. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste!
7. Combine with Spaghetti:
Next, take those cooked spaghetti noodles and toss them into the skillet with the creamy chicken sauce. Mix everything together until the noodles are well coated with the sauce.
8. Serve it Up:
Garnish with some chopped fresh parsley if you like for a bit of color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy your easy, creamy chicken spaghetti dinner!
FAQ for Creamy Chicken Spaghetti
Can I Use Leftover Chicken in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken works perfectly. Just shred or dice it and add it straight to the skillet to save time!
How Can I Make This Dish Healthier?
You can use whole grain or gluten-free pasta for a healthier alternative. Additionally, opt for low-fat cream cheese and use low-sodium chicken broth instead of cream soup for a lighter version.
Can I Prepare This Recipe in Advance?
Yes! You can make the creamy sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Just store everything separately in the fridge for up to 2 days, then reheat and combine with freshly cooked spaghetti when you’re ready to eat.
What Should I Serve with Creamy Chicken Spaghetti?
This dish is great on its own, but you can pair it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. A slice of garlic bread or a light garlic toast complements the creamy sauce beautifully!
