Is there anything better than a comforting, creamy, and utterly delicious pasta dish that you can get on the table in under 30 minutes? Welcome to your new kitchen hero: Easy and Quick Chicken Spaghetti. This recipe is the perfect solution to those busy evenings when you crave something hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Combining tender chicken, perfectly cooked spaghetti, and a rich, cheesy sauce, this one-pot wonder is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. It’s family-friendly, endlessly adaptable, and so simple that even beginner cooks will achieve fantastic results. Let’s dive in and create a meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Easy Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
Before we get to the ingredients, let’s talk about why this recipe is a must-try. First, it’s incredibly quick and easy. We’re streamlining the process for maximum flavor with minimal effort. Second, it’s a one-pot meal (or nearly one-pot), meaning fewer dishes to wash a true weeknight victory. Third, it’s highly customizable. Don’t have rotisserie chicken? Use leftover grilled chicken or even canned chicken in a pinch. Want to add veggies? Toss in some spinach, peas, or mushrooms. This recipe is a fantastic canvas for your pantry staples.
Ingredients for Your Creamy Chicken Spaghetti
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to success. Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish for about 4-6 servings.
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) spaghetti
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works perfectly!)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.5 oz / 295g) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
- 1 can (10.5 oz / 295g) cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional for a little smokiness)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Red pepper flakes
Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Chicken Spaghetti
Follow these simple, numbered steps to create a flawless dish.
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite). Drain and set aside. Pro tip: Reserve about ½ cup of the starchy pasta water before draining; it can help adjust the sauce consistency later.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce
To the skillet with onions and garlic, add the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and milk. Whisk everything together until smooth and well combined. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Add Chicken and Cheese
Stir in the shredded chicken, sour cream, 1 cup of the cheddar cheese, and all of the mozzarella cheese. Add the Italian seasoning, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Keep stirring over medium-low heat until the cheeses are completely melted and the sauce is creamy and uniform.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained spaghetti to the creamy chicken sauce. Using tongs or a large spoon, gently toss everything together until every strand of pasta is beautifully coated. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water or a little more milk until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 6: Final Cheese Topping and Serve
Preheat your oven’s broiler. Transfer the mixed chicken spaghetti to an oven-safe baking dish if your skillet isn’t ovenproof. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Place under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, watching closely, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving.
Helpful Tips & Customizations
This recipe is wonderfully forgiving. Here are some tips and ideas to make it your own:
- Protein Swap: Substitute the chicken with canned tuna (for a Tuna Spaghetti), cooked ground beef, turkey, or even meatballs.
- Vegetable Boost: Add nutrition by stirring in a cup of frozen peas, diced bell peppers (sauté with the onions), chopped spinach, or broccoli florets during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Spice it Up: For a kick, add a diced jalapeño with the onions or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce. The red pepper flakes garnish also adds nice heat.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to use different cheese blends. Pepper Jack adds spice, Colby Jack is mild and creamy, and Gouda offers a lovely smokiness.
- Cream Soup Alternatives: If you prefer not to use canned soup, you can make a simple white sauce (béchamel) with butter, flour, and milk, and add sautéed mushrooms for that earthy flavor.
- Storage: Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to refresh the creaminess.
Conclusion: Your New Family Favorite Awaits
And there you have it the ultimate Easy and Quick Chicken Spaghetti recipe that delivers maximum comfort with minimal fuss. It’s creamy, cheesy, packed with flavor, and designed to make your weeknight dinners stress-free and delicious. This dish proves that you don’t need complex techniques or dozens of ingredients to put a memorable meal on the table.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your skillet, gather those simple ingredients, and treat yourself and your family to this delightful dinner tonight. Don’t forget to snap a photo of your creation and share it we’d love to see how it turned out! Happy cooking
