This creamy chicken spaghetti is a warm hug on a plate! It features tender chicken and spaghetti, all tossed in a rich, cheesy sauce that makes every bite super tasty.
I love how this recipe comes together so easily. Just cook the chicken, mix it with the pasta and sauce, and dinner is ready! Perfect for busy nights when you still want something delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: Regular spaghetti works well, but you could swap it for whole wheat spaghetti or gluten-free pasta if you prefer that. Fettuccine or penne are also great options!
Cooked Chicken: You can use rotisserie chicken for a quick fix. If you’re vegetarian, cooked mushrooms or chickpeas can work as a tasty substitute!
Butter: While butter adds creaminess, olive oil can be a healthier choice if you want to lighten it up.
Cream of Mushroom/Chicken Soup: If you’re avoiding these products, homemade cream sauce using flour and milk is a great substitute! You can use vegetable broth instead of chicken for a vegetarian version.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is creamy and melts well, but feel free to use Monterey Jack or a cheese blend if you have them on hand.
How Do You Achieve a Creamy Sauce Without Clumps?
The key to a smooth and creamy sauce is in how you combine the ingredients. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Slowly stir in the soups and broth into the skillet with the shredded chicken, mixing well to avoid clumps.
- Lower the heat before adding the cheese and sour cream. This prevents the cheese from becoming stringy.
- Make sure your cheese is at room temperature, as it melts more evenly!
Following these tips will help you create a delicious, creamy sauce without the hassle of clumps! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Creamy Chicken Spaghetti
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon paprika or Cajun seasoning for slight heat
- Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy chicken spaghetti recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 10 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll be enjoying this delicious dish in about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Spaghetti:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once it’s cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté it for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it!
3. Combine Chicken with Aromatics:
Add the cooked, shredded chicken to the skillet. Stir everything together so that the chicken picks up all those lovely flavors from the onion and garlic.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Now it’s time to stir in the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth. Mix everything well and let it come to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
5. Add the Creaminess:
Once the mixture is simmering, reduce the heat to low. Add in the shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
6. Combine with Spaghetti:
Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and gently toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and if you like, sprinkle in some paprika or Cajun seasoning for a kick!
7. Heat Through:
Continue to heat everything together for 2-3 minutes until it’s all hot and bubbly. Make sure not to let it boil too vigorously as the sauce can thicken too much.
8. Serve and Garnish:
Finally, garnish your creamy chicken spaghetti with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color and flavor. Serve it warm and enjoy your comforting meal!
Bon appétit! Enjoy your comforting and easy creamy chicken spaghetti!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Pastas Instead of Spaghetti?
Absolutely! You can substitute spaghetti with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fettuccine, or even gluten-free pasta if needed. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and substitute it with cooked mushrooms, chickpeas, or even a mix of your favorite veggies. You can still use the cream soups and cheese for that creamy texture!
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the creamy sauce and cook the pasta in advance. Keep them separate in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, combine and reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen the sauce as needed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure it heats evenly.
