Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti

Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti is a comfort food classic that brings together tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and cheesy goodness. This dish is baked to perfection, making it not only delicious but also easy to prepare. Each bite is creamy, cheesy, and satisfying, making it a favorite among family and friends.

Why Make This Recipe

You should make Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti because it’s quick and easy to prepare. Perfect for busy weeknights, it combines pantry staples with fresh ingredients to create a hearty meal. The combination of cheese, chicken, and spaghetti keeps everyone full and happy. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken, making it an ideal choice for meal prep.

How to Make Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti

Creating Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti is simple and straightforward. Here’s how to do it:

Ingredients:

8 ounces spaghetti
2 tablespoons butter
1 medium white onion (diced)
1 medium green bell pepper (diced)
2 teaspoons minced garlic (about 2 cloves)
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups milk (whole, 2%, or 1%)
3 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes (drained)
1 (4-ounce) can diced green chiles (drained)
2 cups cooked diced chicken
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook 8 ounces of spaghetti according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
Meanwhile, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add 1 medium diced onion and 1 medium diced green bell pepper. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, until softened.
Add 2 teaspoons of minced garlic and 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour. Stir and cook for 2 minutes. Slowly whisk in 2 cups of milk. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from heat.
Stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Add the drained diced tomatoes, diced green chiles, cooked diced chicken, and the drained spaghetti. Stir to combine. Season with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper.
Pour the mixture into a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the cheese is warm, bubbly, and lightly browned.

How to Serve Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti

Serve Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti hot from the oven. It goes well with a simple green salad or some garlic bread. For added flavor, you can sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or basil on top before serving.

How to Store Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti

To store leftovers, allow the spaghetti to cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake it in the oven until warmed through, or microwave individual portions until hot.

Tips to Make Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti

Use rotisserie chicken: For even faster preparation, use store-bought rotisserie chicken.
Add veggies: Feel free to mix in some frozen peas or corn for extra color and nutrition.
Spice it up: If you like spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some crushed red pepper flakes.

Variation

You can easily make this recipe vegetarian by substituting the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or more vegetables. Also, try using different types of cheese, like mozzarella or pepper jack, for a flavor twist.

FAQs

1. Can I use different pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta you like. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose.

2. How can I make this dish healthier?
Use whole-grain pasta, low-fat cheese, and add more vegetables to boost the nutritional content.

3. Can I prepare this in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish, cover it, and refrigerate it before baking. Just add about 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the fridge.

Enjoy your Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti, and watch it become a favorite at your dining table!