Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti is a dish that combines the rich flavors of creamy cheese sauce with tender chicken, all tossed with spaghetti for a comforting and satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner solution or planning a potluck dish, this recipe is sure to be a hit with its creamy texture and delicious flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 lb spaghetti
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 8 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1/2 cup milk
- 3/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups cooked chicken, cubed or shredded
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 (4 oz) can chopped green chiles
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
- Prepare Spaghetti: Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
- Heat the Soups: In a large skillet or pot, combine the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, cubed Velveeta cheese, and milk over medium heat.
- Melt Cheese: Stir constantly until the cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth.
Step 3: Season and Add Ingredients
- Season: Stir in garlic powder and black pepper to taste.
- Combine Chicken and Vegetables: Add the cooked chicken, drained diced tomatoes, and chopped green chiles to the cheese sauce. Stir well to combine and heat through.
Step 4: Combine with Spaghetti
- Mix Well: Add the cooked spaghetti to the cheese sauce mixture. Gently toss until the spaghetti is evenly coated with the sauce and all ingredients are well combined.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for added freshness and color.
Cook Notes and Variations
- Creamy Texture: Adjust the amount of milk used to achieve your desired consistency of the cheese sauce. More milk will result in a thinner sauce, while less milk will make it thicker and creamier.
- Cheese Options: If you prefer a sharper flavor, substitute Velveeta cheese with shredded sharp cheddar or a blend of cheeses like mozzarella and Monterey Jack.
- Adding Vegetables: Enhance the dish by adding sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute spaghetti with any pasta shape you prefer. Penne, rotini, or shells work well and can add a different texture to the dish.
Can I make Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dish up to the point of baking, cover tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake as directed until heated through and bubbly.
Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti is a versatile and comforting meal that brings together creamy cheese sauce, tender chicken, and a touch of spice from the green chiles. It’s an ideal dish for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to serve a crowd-pleasing dish. With its straightforward preparation and delicious flavors, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Serve it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.
This detailed blog post provides a comprehensive guide to preparing Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti, covering ingredients, step-by-step instructions, cook notes, variations, FAQs, and a concluding note on its appeal and versatility
Cook Notes and Variations (continued)
- Baking Option: For an extra cheesy and gooey texture, transfer the combined mixture to a baking dish, sprinkle additional shredded cheese on top, and bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Spice Level: Adjust the heat level by adding more or less of the chopped green chiles. For a milder dish, you can omit the green chiles altogether.
- Healthier Options: To make this dish lighter, use reduced-fat or fat-free versions of the cream of mushroom and cream of chicken soups. You can also use whole wheat or gluten-free spaghetti for dietary preferences.
Keto and Low-Carb Version
For those following a keto or low-carb diet, here’s how you can adapt this recipe:
Ingredients
- 1 lb spaghetti: Substitute with spaghetti squash or shirataki noodles for low-carb options.
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup: Use a homemade keto-friendly cream of mushroom soup or a low-carb alternative.
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup: Replace with a keto-friendly cream of chicken soup or make your own.
- 8 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed: Instead, use shredded cheddar cheese or a blend of your favorite keto-friendly cheeses.
- 1/2 cup milk: Substitute with unsweetened almond milk or heavy cream for a richer texture.
- 3/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups cooked chicken, cubed or shredded
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained: Use fresh diced tomatoes or cherry tomatoes cut in half.
- 1 (4 oz) can chopped green chiles
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Follow the same instructions as the original recipe, making the following adjustments:
- Instead of spaghetti, use spaghetti squash or shirataki noodles prepared according to package instructions.
- Substitute the canned soups with keto-friendly versions or make your own using keto-friendly ingredients.
- Use shredded cheddar cheese or a combination of keto-friendly cheeses like mozzarella and Monterey Jack instead of Velveeta.
- Replace regular milk with unsweetened almond milk or heavy cream for a creamy texture without the extra carbs.
- Ensure all other ingredients are keto-friendly, such as using fresh herbs for flavor and omitting any high-carb garnishes.
Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti is not just a meal; it’s a comforting dish that brings people together with its creamy cheese sauce, tender chicken, and satisfying pasta. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or planning a meal for a special gathering, this recipe delivers on flavor and simplicity. Its adaptability makes it suitable for various dietary preferences and occasions, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy a delicious and hearty meal.
Try this Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti recipe for your next family dinner or potluck, and savor the creamy goodness that makes it a beloved favorite. With its straightforward preparation and versatile ingredients, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad to complete the meal and delight your loved ones with this delicious comfort food.
