Irresistible Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Recipe for Cozy Nights

Comfort meets creativity in this cheesy chicken spaghetti that promises a delightful twist on classic pasta nights.

Creamy textures blend with savory chicken for an irresistible meal.

Weeknight dinners demand something special, and this recipe delivers with minimal effort.

Each forkful promises a symphony of flavors that dance across your palate.

Ingredients come together seamlessly, creating a dish that feels both familiar and exciting.

Cheese lovers will appreciate the rich, melted goodness coating every strand of perfectly cooked spaghetti.

Storage Tips for Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti

• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking. Consume within 3-4 days for best quality and safety.
• Cool the dish completely, then place in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Seal tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Label with the date to track freshness.
• Warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth to restore moisture. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.
• Place portions in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and reheat in 30-second intervals. Stir between intervals to distribute heat evenly and prevent drying out.

FAQs About Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti

• Is chicken spaghetti a healthy meal?

This dish provides a balanced combination of protein from chicken, carbohydrates from pasta, and calcium from cheese. While delicious, it’s moderately high in calories and should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

• Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! While cheddar and Parmesan work great, you can experiment with mozzarella, monterey jack, or provolone for different flavor profiles. Just ensure the cheese melts well and complements the chicken.

• What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Greek yogurt, half-and-half, or milk with a cornstarch slurry can replace heavy cream. Each option will slightly alter the sauce’s thickness and richness, so adjust accordingly.

Why You’ll Love Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti

• Savor Quick Satisfaction: Prepare this delightful chicken spaghetti in just a few simple steps, perfect for busy weeknights when you need a delicious meal fast.
• Create Comforting Crowd-Pleaser: Packed with cheesy goodness and tender chicken, this recipe appeals to both kids and adults, making it an ideal family dinner option.
• Master One-Pan Magic: Streamline your cooking process by using a single skillet, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor with each creamy, cheesy bite.
• Customize Culinary Creativity: Easily adapt the recipe by swapping cheeses, adding vegetables, or adjusting seasonings to match your taste preferences and pantry ingredients.

Ingredients for Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti

• Chicken: Tender protein that provides a hearty base for the creamy spaghetti dish.

• Spaghetti: Classic long pasta that serves as the foundation of the recipe.

• Cheddar Cheese, Parmesan Cheese: Rich cheeses that create a smooth, creamy sauce with deep flavor.

• Onion, Garlic: Foundational ingredients that add depth and savory notes to the dish.

• Olive Oil: Helps cook chicken and create a smooth cooking base.
• Heavy Cream, Diced Tomatoes: Ingredients that contribute to the creamy and tangy sauce texture.

• Dried Basil, Dried Oregano, Salt, Pepper: Essential spices that enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.

• Fresh Basil, Fresh Parsley: Optional herbs that add a bright, fresh finish to the completed dish.

Instructions for Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti

Step 1: Boil Pasta

Cook spaghetti in a large pot of salted water until al dente. Follow package directions for perfect texture. Drain pasta in a colander and set aside.

Step 2: Sear Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and cook until golden brown and completely cooked through. Ensure no pink remains in the center.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

Add onions to the skillet and cook until soft and translucent. Introduce garlic and sauté briefly, releasing its fragrant oils.

Step 4: Create Creamy Base

Pour in diced tomatoes and heavy cream into the skillet. Stir ingredients to blend and create a rich, smooth sauce.

Step 5: Melt Cheese

• Cheddar cheese
• Parmesan cheese

Stir continuously until cheese melts completely and sauce becomes silky and uniform.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Gently toss pasta until every strand is coated with the creamy cheese sauce.

Step 7: Season and Enhance

• Dried basil
• Dried oregano
• Salt
• Black pepper

Stir to distribute flavors evenly throughout the dish.

Step 8: Finish and Serve

Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley. Transfer to serving plates and enjoy immediately while hot and creamy.

Pro Tips for Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti

• Boost Pasta Texture: Slightly undercook spaghetti before final mixing to prevent mushiness when combined with sauce.
• Control Cheese Melt: Remove skillet from heat when adding cheese to prevent separation and achieve smooth, creamy consistency.
• Substitute Protein Options: Replace chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken, ground turkey, or plant-based protein for variety.
• Enhance Flavor Depth: Toast dried herbs briefly in olive oil before adding to intensify their aromatic qualities and taste profile.
• Lighten Sauce Calories: Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream to reduce overall fat content while maintaining creamy texture.

Flavor Variations for Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti

• Seafood Sensation: Replace chicken with shrimp or crab for a maritime protein swap, using white wine instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
• Vegetarian Veggie Delight: Substitute chicken with roasted mushrooms or zucchini, using vegetable broth and plant-based cheese for a meat-free version.
• Gluten-Free Friendly: Use gluten-free spaghetti or zucchini noodles, ensuring all other ingredients are certified gluten-free for those with dietary restrictions.
• Spicy Southwest Style: Add diced green chilies, swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese, and sprinkle with chili powder for a kicked-up flavor profile.

Pairing Suggestions for Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti

• Pair with Robust Red Wine: Select a medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese that complements the rich, cheesy chicken spaghetti without overpowering its creamy texture.
• Create Fresh Herb Salad: Toss together mixed greens, arugula, and fresh herbs like parsley and basil with a light lemon vinaigrette to balance the dish's heavy, creamy profile.
• Match with Crisp White Appetizer: Serve bruschetta topped with fresh tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil to provide a bright, acidic contrast to the dense, cheesy pasta.
• Enhance with Garlic Bread: Prepare warm, buttery garlic bread with a crispy exterior and soft center to soak up the delicious cheese sauce and add a complementary texture.

Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Recipe

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4.7 from 24 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Comfort meets culinary creativity in this cheesy chicken spaghetti that blends creamy textures with hearty flavors. Melted cheese, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta create a simple yet irresistible meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, diced

Pasta:

• 8 oz (225g) spaghetti

Dairy and Cheese:

• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream

Vegetables and Aromatics:

• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

Herbs and Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Ingredient:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Garnish:

• Fresh basil or parsley

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Instructions

1. Boil spaghetti in salted water for 8-10 minutes until al dente, then thoroughly drain and reserve.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat at 375°F.
3. Sauté chicken pieces until golden brown and completely cooked through, approximately 6-7 minutes.
4. Reduce heat to medium and incorporate diced onions, cooking until softened and translucent.
5. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30-45 seconds, releasing aromatic flavors without burning.
6. Pour diced tomatoes and heavy cream into the skillet, creating a rich, creamy base.
7. Gradually sprinkle cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, stirring continuously until fully melted and sauce becomes smooth and velvety.
8. Gently fold cooked spaghetti into the cheese mixture, ensuring every strand is evenly coated.
9. Season the dish with dried basil, oregano, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to enhance overall flavor profile.
10. Transfer to serving plates and garnish with fresh chopped basil or parsley for a vibrant finish.

Notes

• Swap chicken for tofu or plant-based protein to create a vegetarian version that maintains the creamy, cheesy texture.
• Use gluten-free spaghetti to make this dish celiac-friendly without compromising the rich, comforting flavors.
• For a lighter option, replace heavy cream with Greek yogurt or half-and-half to reduce calories while keeping the sauce creamy.
• Enhance meal prep by cooking extra chicken and sauce, which can be stored in the refrigerator for quick weeknight dinners.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 590 kcal
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 420 mg
• Fat: 35 g
• Saturated Fat: 18 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 37 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 38 g
• Cholesterol: 120 mg