Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti

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I can’t resist a bowl of creamy, cheesy pasta topped with tender chicken. It’s the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth to any table. This Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti is the dish I go to when I want something indulgent and hearty, yet easy enough to make on a busy weeknight. With its rich, velvety cheese sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and juicy chicken, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family dinners or impressing guests at a dinner party.

The best part about this recipe is how quick and simple it is to prepare, while still delivering a dish that feels special. The combination of cheese, chicken, and spaghetti is a classic, but I’ve taken it up a notch with a few tweaks to make it extra cheesy and flavorful. Trust me, once you try this version, it will become your new go-to cheesy pasta recipe.

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Why You’ll Love This Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti

There’s so much to love about this dish. The creamy cheese sauce clings perfectly to the spaghetti, creating the ideal comfort food experience. The chicken adds a satisfying protein punch, and the overall flavor profile is rich and savory with a hint of garlic and herbs. Plus, it’s a one-pot dish, which means less cleanup – a major win in my book. If you’re someone who loves cheesy pasta and enjoys a simple yet delicious dinner, this recipe is for you!

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What Kind of Chicken Should I Use for this Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti?

For this recipe, boneless, skinless chicken breast works best. It’s lean, cooks quickly, and absorbs the creamy flavors of the sauce beautifully. However, you could also use boneless chicken thighs for a slightly richer taste and more tender texture. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut — simply shred it and add it to the sauce for a fast, flavorful option.

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Options for Substitutions

If you’re looking to mix things up or need to use what you have on hand, there are plenty of substitutions you can make. Here are a few ideas:

• Pasta: While I use spaghetti in this dish, you can swap it for any pasta you like—penne, fusilli, or even fettuccine would work well.
• Cheese: The recipe calls for a mix of shredded cheddar and mozzarella for that perfect meltiness, but you can also try using gouda, Parmesan, or a blend of your favorites.
• Chicken: As mentioned, rotisserie chicken or even leftover grilled chicken works great if you don’t want to cook fresh chicken.
• Cream: You can use a lighter option like half-and-half or even milk, but for the creamiest sauce, I recommend using heavy cream.
• Vegetables: If you want to add a bit of extra flavor and nutrition, feel free to throw in some sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers.

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Ingredients for this Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti

1. Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts
   This is the main protein in the dish, providing a tender, juicy texture that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
2. Spaghetti
   The base of this dish, spaghetti is the perfect pasta to hold onto the rich, cheesy sauce. Its long strands allow every bite to be coated with cheesy goodness.
3. Cheddar Cheese
   Cheddar is essential for that sharp, bold flavor that makes this dish extra cheesy and savory.
4. Mozzarella Cheese
   Mozzarella contributes the ultimate creamy, gooey melt that brings all the flavors together in a deliciously satisfying way.
5. Heavy Cream
   Heavy cream is what makes the sauce luxuriously smooth and rich, creating the creamy base for all the cheesy goodness.
6. Garlic
   Garlic adds a savory, aromatic depth to the sauce, infusing the entire dish with that irresistible flavor.
7. Olive Oil
   A little olive oil helps cook the chicken to perfection and adds a subtle richness to the dish.
8. Chicken Broth
   Chicken broth is key to adding a savory, flavorful base to the sauce and helps balance out the creaminess.
9. Parmesan Cheese
   Parmesan adds a sharp, umami flavor that complements the cheddar and mozzarella, making the sauce even more flavorful.
10. Herbs (like parsley and thyme)
    A little fresh parsley for garnish brightens up the dish with color and a fresh taste, while thyme adds a hint of earthiness that elevates the overall flavor.
11. Salt & Pepper
    Seasoning is key to bringing out all the flavors in this dish, making the sauce perfectly balanced.

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Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s at a rolling boil, add your spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, but be sure to save about a cup of the pasta water to add later if needed for the sauce. Set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook them for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until they’re fully cooked through and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside to rest. Once cooled, cut it into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce

In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil (if needed) and sauté garlic for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then gradually add the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring constantly until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Chicken

Add the cooked chicken pieces to the sauce, stirring to combine. Then, gently toss in the cooked spaghetti. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. Stir everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy sauce.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Transfer the cheesy chicken spaghetti to a serving dish and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately while it’s hot and enjoy the ultimate cheesy comfort meal!

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How Long to Cook the Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti

Cooking this dish is relatively quick. From start to finish, you’ll need about 30-40 minutes. Here’s a breakdown:

• Pasta: 8-10 minutes
• Chicken: 12-16 minutes, depending on thickness
• Sauce preparation: 5-7 minutes Once everything is combined, you can serve it immediately.

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Tips for Perfect Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti

• Cook pasta al dente: Be sure not to overcook the spaghetti; it should still have a slight bite to it, which helps it hold up better when mixed with the creamy sauce.
• Use room temperature chicken: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking so it cools slightly and becomes easier to cut into uniform pieces.
• Don’t skip the pasta water: If your sauce becomes too thick, adding a bit of reserved pasta water helps thin it out while also adding flavor from the starch.
• Customize with cheese: Feel free to play around with the cheese blend! Add a bit of smoked gouda for a unique twist or some Parmesan to kick up the umami.
• Make it extra creamy: For an even creamier dish, consider adding a bit of cream cheese to the sauce. It’ll make the texture velvety smooth and add richness.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

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• Overcooking the pasta: It’s easy to get distracted while making the sauce, but overcooking the pasta can lead to mushy spaghetti that won’t hold the sauce well. Keep an eye on the timer and aim for al dente pasta.
• Burning the garlic: Garlic can burn quickly, especially when sautéing. Make sure to cook it on medium heat and watch it closely—once it becomes fragrant (usually in about 1 minute), it’s time to add the chicken broth and cream.
• Not seasoning enough: It’s tempting to skip adding salt and pepper throughout the cooking process, but each layer of flavor counts. Season your pasta, chicken, and sauce as you go for the best flavor balance.
• Not letting the chicken rest: Cutting into the chicken immediately after cooking can cause it to release too much juice, leaving it dry. Let it rest for a few minutes to retain its juices and tenderness.
• Using low-fat cream: For the richest flavor and texture, stick to heavy cream. Using a low-fat version can result in a thinner sauce that lacks the luscious consistency you want in this dish.

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What to Serve With Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti?

1. Garlic Bread

A classic pairing with pasta, garlic bread adds a crunchy texture and buttery, garlicky flavor that complements the creamy spaghetti.

2. Side Salad

A light side salad with a tangy vinaigrette is perfect to balance the richness of the pasta. Opt for mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of Parmesan.

3. Roasted Vegetables

Roasted asparagus, broccoli, or carrots offer a savory, slightly charred contrast to the creamy pasta, adding a touch of freshness.

4. Steamed Broccoli

A simple side of steamed broccoli or any green vegetable adds color and helps to balance the richness of the dish.

5. Sautéed Mushrooms

If you enjoy earthy flavors, sautéed mushrooms are a fantastic addition that will enhance the dish’s savory notes.

6. Caesar Salad

For a more robust salad option, a Caesar salad with crunchy croutons and creamy dressing pairs wonderfully with cheesy pasta.

7. Grilled Chicken

For extra protein, serve the cheesy chicken spaghetti alongside grilled chicken breast or thighs for a double dose of flavor.

8. Roasted Potatoes

Crispy roasted potatoes, either seasoned with garlic and herbs or lightly salted, can be a great side dish to complement the pasta’s creamy texture.

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Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), storing this Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti is easy. Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. The sauce may thicken as it cools, but you can easily reheat it with a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen it up. Just microwave or heat it on the stove until it’s warm, and it will be just as delicious as the first time!

If you want to store it for longer, this dish can also be frozen. Place the cooled spaghetti in a freezer-safe container and store it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove, adding a little extra cream or broth if needed to bring back the creamy texture.

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Estimated Nutrition

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown for one serving of Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 600-650 kcal
• Protein: 40g
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Fat: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 600-700mg

The calorie count can vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes, but this is a comforting and filling dish that’s perfect for an indulgent meal!

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes! While spaghetti is ideal, you can use any pasta you like. Penne, fettuccine, or fusilli are all great alternatives. Just make sure to cook them al dente so they hold up well in the sauce.

2. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

It’s best to use fresh or thawed chicken for the best texture and flavor. If using frozen, ensure the chicken is fully thawed before cooking. You can thaw it in the fridge overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this dish ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just follow the recipe, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container. Reheat with a bit of extra cream or broth to keep it creamy.

4. How can I make this recipe lighter?

If you want to lighten up the dish, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and swap out some of the cheese for a lower-fat version. You can also use chicken thighs instead of breasts for added flavor without increasing calories too much.

5. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! You can add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, bell peppers, or roasted vegetables to enhance the flavor and nutrition. Just add them to the sauce once it’s ready.

6. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! If you’re not a fan of cheddar or mozzarella, you can try using gouda, provolone, or even a bit of cream cheese for added creaminess. The key is to pick cheeses that melt well.

7. Can I use rotisserie chicken for a shortcut?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option! Just shred it and add it to the sauce when it’s time to combine everything. It will save you time without sacrificing flavor.

8. How can I make the sauce spicier?

If you like a little heat, try adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce while it’s simmering. You can also use a spicy cheese like pepper jack for an extra kick.

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Conclusion

This Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or hosting guests, it’s sure to be a hit. Don’t forget to save this recipe on Pinterest and share it with your family and friends! Everyone deserves a plate of this cheesy goodness!

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