Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Recipe

 Is there anything more comforting than creamy, cheesy pasta? Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti is the perfect cozy meal that combines tender chicken with a rich, velvety cheese sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked spaghetti. It’s hearty, flavorful, and easy to make, making it a family favorite any night of the week. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to turn simple ingredients into something truly special. If you’re ready to bring a little comfort to your dinner table, this recipe will soon become part of your regular rotation.

Here’s everything you need to know to make this delightful dish.

Ingredients

To create this cheesy masterpiece, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken and Spaghetti:

• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (use rotisserie chicken, leftovers, or quickly poach chicken breasts)
• 12 oz spaghetti (or your favorite pasta)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (to prevent spaghetti from sticking)

For the Creamy Cheesy Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth (low-sodium recommended)
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (mild or sharp based on your preference)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for a slight smoky flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Toppings:

• ½ cup breadcrumbs (for a crunchy baked topping)
• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Instructions

Follow these steps to whip up Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti that's bursting with flavor:

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

1. Cook your spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain it, toss it with olive oil, and set aside.
2. If your chicken isn’t pre-cooked, cook it now. You can poach some chicken breasts or shred leftover roasted or rotisserie chicken.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

1. Melt the butter in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
2. Once the butter is melted, sprinkle in the flour. Whisk the mixture constantly for 1-2 minutes to create a roux, which thickens the sauce.
3. Slowly add the chicken broth, whisking as you go, to avoid lumps. Then, pour in the milk and continue whisking until the sauce begins to thicken, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Gradually add the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring until melted and silky smooth.

Step 3: Bring It All Together

1. Add the shredded chicken and cooked spaghetti to the cheese sauce. Use a pair of tongs or a large spoon to toss everything together, ensuring the spaghetti is coated in the creamy sauce.
2. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish if you’d like a baked version for extra flavor and texture.

Step 4 (Optional): Bake to Perfection

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top for a satisfying crunch. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Garnish your Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
2. Serve it warm to a hungry crowd and watch it disappear in minutes!

Tips for Customization

The beauty of this dish is how versatile it is! Here are a few ways to make it your own:

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a little heat.
• Veggie Boost: Sneak in veggies like steamed broccoli, spinach, mushrooms, or diced bell peppers.
• Swap the Cheese: Experiment with other cheese blends like Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or Gouda for a twist.
• Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and swap out the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative like rice flour.

Serving Suggestions

Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti is filling on its own, but pairing it with a crisp side salad or garlic bread adds some variety to your meal. A side of roasted vegetables, like asparagus or green beans, also makes a great complement for a veggie-packed dinner.

This creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying dish is destined to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet indulgent enough to serve to guests. Once you’ve made it, don’t be surprised if your family starts requesting it week after week!