Delicious Chicken Spaghetti Recipe – Easy and Quick!
Are you a fan of hearty and delicious comfort foods? Do you love dishes that are easy to prepare and can feed a crowd? Then have I got the perfect recipe for you – Chicken Spaghetti!
This classic southern dish is the ultimate comfort food that will leave your taste buds singing. I guarantee that this dish will become one of your go-to recipes for dinner parties, potlucks, or even a cozy night in with your family.
I first discovered this recipe from the beloved Food Network star, Ree Drummond, also known as the Pioneer Woman. She raved about how her family loved it and I was curious to try it for myself. After a few tweaks and modifications, I have perfected this recipe to make it even better!
The best part is that it’s straightforward to make and can be customized according to your taste preferences. Whether you’re looking to spice things up with some jalapenos or want to add more protein by throwing in some shrimp or sausage, the options are endless.
So, without any further ado, let’s dive into this creamy cheesy saucy goodness that will make your Southern heart happy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Chicken Spaghetti Recipe – A dish that never gets old!
Are you ever in the mood for something cheesy, savory, and comforting? Well, I have the perfect recipe for you – Chicken Spaghetti. This dish is full of mouth-watering flavors that will leave you wanting more. From velvety and creamy Velveeta cheese to tender chicken breast, this luxurious casserole includes everything you could possibly crave.
What makes Chicken Spaghetti so special? It’s a delicious masterpiece that combines all your favorite ingredients into one harmonious dish. The spaghetti noodles cooked al dente are mixed with juicy chicken breast and veggies like onion and celery ribs for flavor and crunch. These components make a great foundation for the main star of the show – a creamy and indulging sauce made from diced tomatoes, green chilies, and rotel chicken broth that gives an incredible depth of flavor.
This meal is perfect for any day of the week! It’s quick and easy to prepare, and it serves a hungry crowd without any fuss or torture. Each bite guarantees to satisfy your taste buds, leaving you with warm fuzzies inside. Plus, let’s not forget how versatile this recipe is – you can make it ahead of time and reheat it later with ease.
In a nutshell, Chicken Spaghetti is an easy-peasy meal that provides enormous delight to both the cook and the guests. Don’t worry about spending hours in the kitchen because this recipe will not require much time nor effort while still turning out to be one of the most satisfying experiences possible. With just a few ingredients combined in a single dish, you can bring everyone together around your table with this southern classic that promises to be bursting with flavors!
Ingredient List
The ingredients you choose for your Chicken Spaghetti Recipe can make or break the dish. It’s important to ensure that all your ingredients are of top-notch quality to ensure a delicious outcome. Here are the ingredients we will be using:
Main Ingredients
- Chicken Breast: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or rotisserie chicken, shredded
- Spaghetti Noodles: 16 ounces spaghetti noodles
- Velveeta Cheese: 1 (10-ounce) package Velveeta cheese, cut into cubes
- Tomatoes with Green Chilies: 1 (10-3/4 ounce) can Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: 1 can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- Cream of Chicken Soup: 1 can condensed cream of chicken soup
- Minced Onion: 1 chopped onion
- Celery Ribs: 2 chopped celery ribs
Seasonings
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Garlic powder
Make sure to gather all these ingredients before starting with the recipe to save yourself a trip to the grocery store.
The Recipe How-To
Now let’s jump into the star of the show: cooking the Chicken Spaghetti! Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious, creamy and cheesy pasta dish.
Prep Time
- In a large pot, cook 16 ounces of spaghetti noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water. Set aside.
- While spaghetti is cooking, chop up 1 onion and 3 celery ribs.
- Shred or dice 4 cups of cooked chicken. I usually use chicken breast, but any leftover cooked chicken works great.
Making the Cheesy Sauce
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine 2 cans of cream of mushroom soup, 1 can of Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, and 1 10 oz can of diced tomatoes and green chilies. *
- Mix in 2 cups of chicken broth, stir well to combine.
- Add in the chopped onion and celery.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
*For a spicier version, replace one of the cans of tomatoes with an extra can of Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies.
Bringing it all Together
- Bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
- Add in the shredded or diced chicken and stir until combined.
- Slowly add in one block of Velveeta cheese, diced into small cubes to make it melt faster. Keep stirring until cheese is fully melted and incorporated into the sauce.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add in 8 oz of cream cheese along with the Velveeta.
- Finally, add in the cooked spaghetti noodles to the pot, mixing everything together until noodles are fully coated in the creamy sauce.
Baking
For an extra indulgent treat, turn this recipe into a rich baked casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a greased baking dish, combine the cooked spaghetti mixture.
- Sprinkle on top with some shredded cheddar cheese or Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for about 20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
This recipe serves about 8 people and always receives rave reviews at any party I serve it at!
Substitutions and Variations
Are you looking to switch up this classic chicken spaghetti recipe? Here are some substitutions and variations that can add a new pop of flavor to your dish!
Firstly, if you’re looking for a healthier option or want to cater towards diet restrictions, try swapping out the traditional Velveeta cheese for a vegetable-based cheese or even cream cheese. You can also replace regular pasta with gluten-free or whole wheat pasta to add some nutritional value to your meal.
For those who enjoy spicy dishes, consider using diced tomatoes with green chilies instead of Rotel tomatoes. You can also add some minced jalapeños or red pepper flakes in your creamy sauce for an extra kick.
If you want to try out different proteins rather than chicken, experiment with cubes of ham or cooked ground beef. You can even try a vegan version of the recipe by using tofu or vegetarian substitute for chicken.
To switch up the flavor profile entirely, try adding pesto or cheddar cheese in your cheesy sauce. You can also create an Asian-inspired chicken spaghetti dish by incorporating stir-fry veggies and noodles.
For a Filipino twist on the classic recipe, try using tomato sauce instead of Rotel tomatoes and adding some shredded carrots and bell peppers. Similarly, you can turn this dish into a Dominican style arroz con pollo (rice with chicken) by modifying the crispy noodles under layer with rice.
Finally, If you want to take the shortcut route, replace the cooked chicken breast with tender rotisserie chicken or canned shredded chicken.
Overall, there are plenty of ways to mix up this staple recipe for Chicken Spaghetti without sacrificing its delightful nature. Use these suggestions as inspiration to create your own unique version that will please any palate at the party!
Serving and Pairing
Now that your chicken spaghetti is ready to go, let’s talk about how to serve and pair it. This dish is truly a crowd-pleaser, so it’s perfect for any gathering you’re hosting. I like to serve this alongside a crisp green salad and some garlic bread.
If you’re looking for some wine pairings to elevate your dinner party, a full-bodied red such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or a fruity Zinfandel would be perfect. If beer is more your preference, an amber ale or a pilsner would pair nicely.
This dish also works great as a side dish alongside other classic comfort food dishes at potlucks or family gatherings. You can’t go wrong serving it alongside some grilled chicken or hamburgers.
If you’re looking to add some extra vegetables to this dish, I recommend serving it with roasted asparagus or sautéed broccoli. The flavors work really well together and will add some color and nutrition to your plate.
No matter how you choose to serve or pair your chicken spaghetti, it’s sure to be a hit. So go ahead and impress your guests with this mouth-watering recipe!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Now that you have prepared the most finger-licking Chicken Spaghetti, it’s time to consider making ahead and storing for future indulgence. One incredible thing with this home-friendly recipe is its adaptability to make-ahead plans without compromising on taste and flavor.
To make-ahead, follow the recipe up to the point of baking then cover tightly with a plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. All you need when you’re ready to bake is just to remove from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before transferring it to the oven. So simple! In this way, you can focus on other party preparations while still serving a satisfying meal.
As for storing, place leftovers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat in a microwave or oven before enjoying your second serving of this satisfying meal.
If you want to prepare more servings, don’t hesitate to double the recipe batch and freeze some portions for later use. To do this, let the dish cool completely after assembling and baking then transfer it into a freezer-safe dish or aluminum foil pan. Seal tightly with a plastic wrap or aluminum foil before labeling properly with a marker indicating the recipe name and date of preparation so that you don’t forget at what time you stored them. When ready to consume, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Making ahead, storing, and reheating makes this one of my personal favorite pick when preparing food for guests with minimal stress. This is indeed an outstanding chicken spaghetti recipe that involves little prep timing yet rich enough in flavor- all thanks to the combination of juicy rotisserie chicken, creamy cheesy sauce made up of Velveeta cheese and Italian cream cheese blend alongside other ingredients like mushrooms and rotel canned diced tomatoes which are pantry staples in every household.
Tips for Perfect Results
Preparing a flavorful and soft Chicken Spaghetti Recipe is an art that takes time to master. However, nothing brings more joy than nailing the perfect dish for your party guests. To help you achieve that, here are some tips I’ve gathered over the years of making this recipe.
One important tip is to cook the spaghetti noodles until they’re al dente. Overcooking makes them mushy and ruins the texture of the dish. You can check if they’re ready by tasting them every few minutes while cooking.
When it comes to chicken, using cooked and shredded tender chicken breast makes all the difference in elevating the taste of the casserole. If you don’t have cooked chicken on hand, using rotisserie chicken is a great option too.
The sauce of Chicken Spaghetti is what makes it truly delectable. The creamy rotel chicken sauce has a tangy flavor that perfectly complements the pasta, but you can experiment with different sauces such as tomato or creamy vegetable sauce based on your liking or cultural background.
For those who love cheese, Velveeta Cheese is a key ingredient in this recipe that adds a rich and cheesy flavor to the casserole. However, if you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute it with cheddar cheese or cream cheese instead.
Ensure that all ingredients are thoroughly mixed before transferring them to a baking dish to ensure even distribution while baking. Also, be sure to measure out all ingredients accurately to avoid ending up with an overly salty or bland recipe.
Lastly, let your Chicken Spaghetti rest for about 10 to 15 minutes before serving to allow it to set properly and make slicing easier. Serve alongside your favorite side dishes such as garlic bread or Caesar salad for an indulgent meal.
By following these easy tips, you will definitely have a show-stopping Chicken Spaghetti Recipe that will impress your guests and make them ask for seconds.
FAQ
As we near the end of this chicken spaghetti recipe article, here are some FAQs to help you with any doubts or concerns you may have about this dish. These frequently asked questions cover substitutions, recipe adjustments, and general clarifications about the process of making chicken spaghetti. So, read on to get your doubts answered before hitting the kitchen!
What is chicken spaghetti made of?
Chicken spaghetti is a delectable baked dish consisting of cooked spaghetti noodles and tender shredded chicken, mixed in a rich and creamy sauce made of cream of mushroom soup, cream cheese, Velveeta cheese, and a mixture of aromatic spices and seasonings. The dish is heightened with the addition of Rotel tomatoes, enhancing both its flavor and texture, and making it a delightful treat to serve at any party or gathering.
What is the difference between chicken spaghetti and chicken Tetrazzini?
Chicken Tetrazzini and Chicken Spaghetti both include chicken as their main ingredient, but the main difference between them is the type of sauce used. Typically, Chicken Spaghetti is made with a red sauce, while Chicken Tetrazzini incorporates a creamy white sauce containing mushrooms or vegetables.
How do I thicken chicken spaghetti?
To thicken the pasta sauce, grab a small bowl and mix ¼ cup of water with some cornstarch. Keep whisking the mixture until the cornstarch completely dissolves. Next, gently pour the cornstarch slurry into the warm pasta sauce and stir it in. Bring the sauce to a light simmer and let it thicken up quickly.
How do you shred chicken breast?
When it comes to shredding chicken, there are two popular ways to get the job done. The first method involves using a pair of forks to pull the chicken meat apart into thin shreds. With this method, simply place your cooked chicken breast on a sturdy surface, such as a plate or cutting board, and use the forks to separate the meat. This technique can take some practice, but with a little patience, you’ll soon find yourself shredding like a pro.
Alternatively, if you’re lucky enough to own a stand mixer, you’re in for a real treat. Shredding chicken with a stand mixer is far quicker and easier compared to the two-fork method. Simply cook your chicken breast as desired, then place it in the bowl of the stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Turn the mixer on low speed and let it do the work for you. In mere seconds, you’ll have perfectly shredded chicken ready to use in your favorite recipes.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this chicken spaghetti recipe is a mouth-watering and easy-to-make dish that will make you a hit with all your guests! With its creamy and cheesy sauce that includes Velveeta cheese, cream of mushroom soup, and diced tomatoes, it’s no wonder why it’s a family favorite. Additionally, this versatile recipe can be easily customized to fit your personal taste preferences by substituting ingredients such as using rotisserie chicken or adding vegetables like celery or red peppers.
Whether you’re a beginner cook or an experienced chef, this chicken spaghetti recipe is perfect for any occasion. So why not give it a try? You won’t be disappointed. Plus, recipes from food icons like Ree Drummond from the Food Network or Shireen Anwar are testaments to how good chicken spaghetti can really be.
So go ahead and make this delicious chicken spaghetti recipe today – your taste buds will thank you!
Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 chicken
- 2 celery ribs, sliced thin (optional)
- 1 small onion, chopped (optional)
- 1 (10 ounce) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 (10 ounce) can cream of celery soup
- 12 ounces spaghetti noodles
- 1 (12 ounce) jar Cheez Whiz
- 8 cups reserved chicken broth, separated
- 4 ounces Velveeta cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Boil chicken an hour with celery and onion.
- Reserve 2 cups broth from boiling the chicken. Cook spaghetti noodles in remainder of chicken broth, adding enough water to make sure there's enough liquid to cook the pasta. Drain noodles and set aside. Debone chicken.
- Mix reserved 2 cups broth with cream soups, add spaghetti, deboned chicken and Cheez Whiz and mix well. Top with thinly sliced or shredded Velveeta if wanted.
- Place in a 13 x 9 pan, bake at 350 degrees until bubbly. About 30 minutes.
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Anna is a culinary expert who specializes in grilling delicious BBQ dishes. She also enjoys sharing her recipes and experiences with her foodie community on her blog. She’s the total package for any backyard barbecue!