If you are craving a comforting, creamy, and utterly delicious pasta dish, this Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Recipe is just the answer you’ve been looking for. With tender shredded chicken, perfectly cooked spaghetti, and a luscious cheese sauce that blends cheddar and mozzarella, this dish brings both warmth and satisfaction to your dinner table. Every bite is a cozy embrace of flavors, making it an instant family favorite and a go-to weeknight meal that feels as special as it tastes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward nailing this Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Recipe. Each ingredient is simple yet plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, creating that irresistible creamy texture, and bringing vibrant colors to your plate.
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded: Adds tender, protein-packed goodness that carries the sauce beautifully.
- 12 oz spaghetti: The perfect pasta foundation that holds the creamy sauce with every twirl.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for sautéing veggies to bring out their natural sweetness.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds a mild, aromatic flavor base.
- 1 bell pepper, diced: Contributes sweetness and a pop of color.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: Creates a rich, velvety sauce base.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Brings tanginess and extra creaminess.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Helps thin the sauce to the right consistency and adds savory depth.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Infuses bold, cheesy flavor and a vibrant orange hue.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts to a gooey, stretchy texture that blends perfectly with cheddar.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds subtle warmth and enhances the savory profile.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Boosts flavor complexity seamlessly.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Gives a hint of smokiness and adds color.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that bring all flavors together.
How to Make Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente. It’s important to drain it well so it won’t dilute the creamy sauce later. Setting this aside allows you to focus on making the rich chicken and cheese sauce that will coat every strand beautifully.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and add the diced onion and bell pepper. Cooking them until softened about 3 to 4 minutes helps unlock their natural sweetness and creates a lovely flavor base for the sauce, giving the dish that homemade comfort-food vibe.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In a separate bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and chicken broth until smooth. This creamy mixture forms the luxurious sauce that wraps around the pasta and chicken, making the entire dish irresistibly luscious.
Step 4: Combine the Chicken and Sauce
Add your shredded chicken to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables, then pour in your creamy soup mixture. Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well, ensuring that every bit of chicken and veggie gets coated in that flavorful sauce—the secret to a well-balanced and tasty dish.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
Once the sauce is warm and bubbling gently, stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Watch them melt into the sauce, creating a creamy, gooey texture that thickens slightly and adds that signature cheesy pull we all love in a Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Recipe.
Step 6: Combine with Pasta
Finally, toss the cooked spaghetti directly into the skillet with the creamy chicken and cheese mixture. Mix everything together carefully to ensure each noodle is generously coated with sauce. This step makes sure every forkful delivers that perfect balance of cheesy, creamy, and tender goodness.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Take the skillet off the heat and serve immediately. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish for a fresh burst of color and a hint of brightness that contrasts beautifully with the rich cheese sauce.
Step 8: Enjoy
Dig in and enjoy this heartwarming dish as is or alongside a crisp side salad or crusty garlic bread. It’s comfort food at its finest and guaranteed to bring smiles around the dinner table.
How to Serve Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
While this dish is a star on its own, adding fresh chopped parsley or a sprinkle of green onions introduces freshness and color that lightens the plate. For extra flair, a dash of crushed red pepper flakes can add an exciting kick if you enjoy a bit of heat.
Side Dishes
Pair your cheesy chicken spaghetti with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls are wonderful options too, perfect for mopping up that indulgent sauce and adding satisfying crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd-pleaser, bake the entire mixture with an extra layer of shredded cheese on top until bubbly and golden, turning it into a comforting casserole. Alternatively, serve individual portions in small ramekins topped with parmesan crumbs and broil briefly for a crispy topping that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Recipe keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors mellow and meld even more overnight, making it a perfect option for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cool the dish completely before sealing it tightly to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of chicken broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce. This careful reheating restores the creamy texture without drying out the pasta, so it tastes freshly made all over again.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta in this Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Recipe?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is classic, you can substitute with penne, rotini, or even egg noodles. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta shape you choose.
Is it possible to make this recipe healthier?
Yes! Use whole wheat pasta for more fiber, substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt, or reduce the cheese quantity. Adding extra veggies like spinach or mushrooms is another tasty way to boost nutrition.
Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked shredded chicken?
You can, but be sure to cook it separately beforehand by poaching, baking, or sautéing until fully cooked, then shred it before adding to the sauce. This keeps the chicken tender and perfectly integrated in the final dish.
How do I make this Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Recipe dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, substitute cheeses for vegan cheese alternatives and use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream soup. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.
Can I double the recipe to feed a larger group?
Definitely! The ingredients scale easily. Just use a larger pan or skillet to cook and mix everything comfortably, ensuring even heating and mixing.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Recipe, you’ll understand why it’s such a beloved dish. It’s simple, quick, and packed with flavors that feel like a warm hug on a plate. Whether weeknight dinner or casual gathering, it’s sure to please every crowd. So grab your ingredients, cook up a storm, and enjoy every cheesy, comforting bite!
Print
Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti is a creamy, comforting dish featuring tender shredded chicken, sautéed vegetables, and a rich cheese sauce tossed with perfectly cooked spaghetti. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a perfect weeknight meal that combines hearty flavors with gooey melted cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients
Chicken and Vegetables
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded (about 2 medium chicken breasts)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Pasta
- 12 oz spaghetti (or pasta of your choice)
Sauce
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Cheese
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside to prevent sticking.
- Sauté the vegetables: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, cooking for 3-4 minutes until they soften and become fragrant.
- Prepare the sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and chicken broth. Mix until smooth and well-incorporated to form a creamy base.
- Combine the chicken and sauce: Add the shredded chicken to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Pour in the prepared soup mixture, and season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly and heat through.
- Add the cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, allowing them to melt completely into the sauce, creating a rich and creamy texture.
- Combine with pasta: Add the cooked spaghetti into the skillet with the cheesy chicken mixture. Toss gently to combine and ensure the pasta is fully coated with the sauce.
- Serve and garnish: Remove from heat and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for added color and freshness.
- Enjoy: Pair this creamy, cheesy chicken spaghetti with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken to save time.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
- You can substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup if desired.
- To make the dish lighter, opt for reduced-fat cheeses and sour cream.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
