Description

There's something undeniably comforting about a warm, creamy pasta dish that brings together the richness of cheese, the heartiness of chicken, and the satisfying bite of perfectly cooked spaghetti. This recipe for "The Best Chicken Spaghetti" is not just a meal; it's an experience. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or when you're simply craving a dish that hugs you from the inside, this chicken spaghetti combines familiar flavors with a hint of Southern charm. The blend of tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and a cheesy sauce creates a dish that will quickly become a staple in your recipe rotation.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 12 oz of spaghetti
• 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of mushroom soup
• 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of chicken soup
• 1 can (10 oz) of diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 small green bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cups of chicken broth
• 1 tsp of seasoned salt
• 1/2 tsp of black pepper
• 1/4 tsp of cayenne pepper (optional for a bit of heat)
• 1 tbsp of butter or olive oil

Preparation Method

Cook the Spaghetti: Start by cooking the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Chicken: If you haven’t already, cook your chicken. You can either boil, bake, or even use a rotisserie chicken for added flavor. Once cooked, shred or dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the butter or olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper, sautéing until they are soft and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.

Combine the Ingredients: To the skillet with the vegetables, add the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and chicken broth. Stir to combine until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Season with seasoned salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using.

Add the Chicken and Cheese: Stir in the cooked chicken and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce.

Mix with Spaghetti: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is fully coated with the creamy sauce.

Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the spaghetti mixture to a large baking dish and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese on top. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

Serve: Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired.

Tips and Conclusion

Bonus Tip:

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a crunchy topping before baking. Mix together 1 cup of crushed Ritz crackers with 2 tablespoons of melted butter, then sprinkle it over the cheese before placing the dish in the oven. The result is a delicious, buttery crunch that pairs perfectly with the creamy pasta.
Conclusion:

This Chicken Spaghetti recipe is a testament to the magic that happens when simple ingredients come together to create something extraordinary. It's a dish that not only satisfies your hunger but also warms your soul. The creamy sauce envelops the tender chicken and perfectly cooked spaghetti, while the subtle kick from the diced tomatoes with green chilies adds just the right amount of spice.

Whether you're making this for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, it's sure to be a hit. The ease of preparation combined with the richness of flavor makes it a go-to recipe for anyone who loves comfort food with a twist. And the best part? It reheats beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers—if there are any left, that is! Enjoy this dish with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete, satisfying meal that everyone will love.