The Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines tender spaghetti with a rich and creamy sauce made from a blend of Velveeta, Parmesan, and savory soups. The addition of chicken, diced tomatoes, and green chiles adds depth and flavor, making it a dish that’s both satisfying and full of character. Whether you’re serving it up for a family dinner or as a special treat, this cheesy chicken spaghetti is sure to become a favorite. It’s easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights, and the leftovers are just as delicious the next day. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color, and enjoy this ultimate comfort food that’s guaranteed to please everyone at the table.
Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender spaghetti with a creamy, cheesy sauce loaded with chicken, tomatoes, and green chiles. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for family dinners or when you're craving something warm and satisfying. The rich flavors of Velveeta, Parmesan, and a mix of savory soups come together to create a delicious, hearty meal that everyone will love. Let’s dive into the ingredients that make this dish so special.
INGREDIENTS
- Spaghetti: 1 pound, uncooked. The base of the dish, providing a satisfying texture and perfect vehicle for the cheesy sauce.
- Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup: 1 can (10-1/2 ounces), undiluted. Adds depth and creaminess to the sauce.
- Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup: 1 can (10-1/2 ounces), undiluted. Enhances the chicken flavor and contributes to the creamy consistency.
- Velveeta: 8 ounces, cubed. Melts into the sauce for a smooth and creamy texture, with a mild cheese flavor.
- 2% Milk: 1/2 cup. Helps to thin the sauce and make it velvety smooth.
- Garlic Powder: 3/4 teaspoon. Adds a subtle garlic flavor that complements the richness of the sauce.
- Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon. Adds a hint of spice to balance the creamy elements.
- Cooked Chicken: 2 cups, cubed. Provides protein and makes the dish hearty and filling.
- Diced Tomatoes: 1 can (14-1/2 ounces), drained. Adds a fresh, tangy flavor to contrast the richness of the sauce.
- Chopped Green Chiles: 1 can (4 ounces). Adds a mild heat and depth of flavor.
- Shredded Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup. Sprinkled on top for a sharp, nutty flavor that complements the cheesy sauce.
- Minced Fresh Parsley: Optional, for garnish. Adds a fresh, herbaceous note and brightens the dish visually.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
- Begin by cooking the spaghetti according to the package directions until it reaches an al dente texture. This means the pasta should be tender but still firm to the bite. Once cooked, drain the spaghetti and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
- Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
- In a Dutch oven or large saucepan, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, condensed cream of chicken soup, Velveeta cubes, milk, garlic powder, and pepper. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the Velveeta is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. This creates a rich, creamy base for the dish.
- Step 3: Add Chicken and Vegetables
- Stir in the cubed cooked chicken, drained diced tomatoes, and chopped green chiles into the cheese sauce. Cook the mixture until everything is heated through, allowing the flavors to meld together. The chicken adds protein and heartiness, while the tomatoes and chiles bring a fresh, slightly tangy flavor to the dish.
- Step 4: Toss with Spaghetti
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce mixture, tossing everything together to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the cheesy chicken sauce. This step ensures that every bite is filled with creamy, savory goodness.
- Step 5: Finish and Serve
- Transfer the spaghetti mixture to a serving dish. Sprinkle the top with shredded Parmesan cheese for an added layer of flavor. If desired, garnish with minced fresh parsley to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness. Serve the Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti hot and enjoy this comforting and satisfying meal.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti is best served hot and fresh, straight from the stovetop. The creamy sauce clings to the pasta, creating a satisfying and hearty dish that’s perfect for family dinners.
- If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if needed.
- This dish can also be prepared ahead of time and baked later. Simply transfer the spaghetti mixture to a baking dish, sprinkle with Parmesan, cover with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until heated through.
- To add a bit of crunch, consider topping the baked spaghetti with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs before baking.
Helpful Notes
- For a spicier version, use a can of diced tomatoes with green chiles (such as Rotel) or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
- If you prefer a creamier sauce, use whole milk or add a splash of heavy cream to the mixture.
- Feel free to customize this dish by adding other vegetables like sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Ina Garten recommends using freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor. The nutty, sharp flavor of freshly grated Parmesan enhances the richness of the dish.
- Chef Jamie Oliver suggests reserving a cup of the pasta cooking water before draining. You can add this starchy water to the sauce if it becomes too thick, helping to achieve a perfectly creamy consistency.
- Chef Gordon Ramsay advises cooking the spaghetti just shy of al dente if you plan to bake the dish later. This prevents the pasta from becoming overcooked and mushy.