Creamy Chicken Spaghetti is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and creamy cheese sauce over perfectly cooked pasta. This recipe is not only comforting but also easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Below is a comprehensive guide on how to make this delicious meal, including ingredients, step-by-step instructions, cooking tips, and nutritional information.
Ingredients
To make Creamy Chicken Spaghetti, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 Rotisserie chicken, shredded (about 2 cups)
- 8 ounces (225g) spaghetti, uncooked
- 1 medium red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 medium green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 ounces Velveeta cheese, cubed (or substitute with cream cheese)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes (like Rotel for added spice)
- 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1.5 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese (divided)
- 2 tablespoons garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
- Olive oil for sautéing
Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes).
- Reserve a ladle of pasta water before draining the spaghetti.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the chopped bell peppers and onion, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper.
- Sauté until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Stir in the cubed Velveeta cheese, cream of chicken soup, and cream of mushroom soup.
- Mix well until the Velveeta is melted and everything is combined smoothly.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
- Add the shredded rotisserie chicken, half of each type of shredded cheese, and the can of diced tomatoes to the skillet.
- Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Stir in the cooked spaghetti along with a ladle of reserved pasta water to help combine everything.
Step 5: Bake
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
- Bake uncovered for 20-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve
- Let cool slightly before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Tips
- For added flavor, consider using fresh herbs like basil or thyme in your sauce.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add red pepper flakes or use spicy diced tomatoes.
- This dish can be prepared ahead of time; just cover it tightly and refrigerate before baking.
Nutritional Information
This recipe serves approximately 6 people and provides a hearty meal rich in protein and carbohydrates. Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 25g
(Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used.)
Cooking Time
Total cooking time for Creamy Chicken Spaghetti is about 45 minutes, including preparation and baking time. This Creamy Chicken Spaghetti recipe is sure to become a family favorite! For more delicious meals like this one, consider purchasing our eBook filled with mouth-watering recipes that are easy to prepare at home. Additionally, don’t miss out on pre-ordering our new cookbook “Deliciously Fit,” which focuses on healthy meals perfect for weight loss without sacrificing flavor! Enjoy your cooking adventure!