Chicken Spaghetti

There’s something inherently comforting about a dish that combines the creamy richness of cheese with the heartiness of chicken and pasta. This Chicken Spaghetti recipe is exactly that—a delightful blend of flavors that comes together to create a meal that’s both satisfying and delicious. Originally shared by my sister, I’ve adapted it slightly to suit my family’s tastes, and it’s become a frequent request at potluck dinners. Trust me, when you serve this dish with freshly grated Parmesan, a crisp salad, and some hot garlic bread, you’re bound to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of both chicken and spaghetti, this recipe is a dream come true. It’s a cheesy masterpiece that’s incredibly easy to make. My previous chicken spaghetti recipe was more complicated, but this version is not only simpler, it’s also packed with flavor. By browning the chicken chunks in a skillet and boiling the noodles in chicken stock with a tablespoon of chicken base, you’ll achieve a depth of flavor that’s hard to beat. Plus, the addition of red bell peppers adds a sweet, vibrant touch. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish is always a hit!

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot
• Skillet (optional for browning chicken)
• Cutting board and knife
• Strainer
• Mixing spoon

Ingredients

• 1 lb of boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 lb of Velveeta cheese
• 1 can of Rotel tomatoes (regular or hot)
• 1 lb of spaghetti pasta
• 1 stick of butter
• 1 can of undiluted cream of chicken soup
• 1 can of undiluted cream of mushroom soup
• 1 medium chopped onion
• 1 chopped bell pepper (red or green)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the chicken breasts along with ½ tsp of salt and ½ tsp of black pepper. Boil for 10 to 12 minutes, then remove the chicken from the water.
2. Using the same pot, cook the spaghetti pasta in the chicken broth according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta and set aside.
3. In the now-empty pot, melt the stick of butter and sauté the chopped onion and bell pepper until tender.
4. Add the Rotel tomatoes, cream of chicken soup, and cream of mushroom soup. Stir to combine.
5. Cut the boiled chicken into bite-sized pieces and add it to the pot along with the cooked spaghetti.
6. Mix in the Velveeta cheese, stirring gently until everything is well combined and the cheese is fully melted. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnishing with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Tips for Success

• For extra flavor, consider browning the chicken in a skillet before boiling.
• Boiling the noodles in chicken stock enhances the overall taste of the dish.
• Use red bell peppers for a sweeter, more colorful dish.

Additional Tips and Variations

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or using different types of cheese. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper can add a spicy kick for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

While nutritional content can vary, a typical serving of Chicken Spaghetti offers a hearty mix of protein from the chicken, carbohydrates from the pasta, and fats from the cheese, making it a filling meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use other types of cheese? Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella for a unique twist.

Can this dish be made ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the dish, refrigerate it, and then bake it to reheat before serving.

Is there a vegetarian version? You can replace the chicken with mushrooms or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock for a vegetarian version.

Conclusion

This Chicken Spaghetti is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting dish that brings people together. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a potluck, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. I hope you enjoy making and eating this as much as my family and I do. If you try it, please share your thoughts and any variations you might have tried. Happy cooking!