Stovetop Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti is a hearty and comforting dish that brings together the richness of cheese, the robust flavors of chicken and vegetables, and the smooth texture of spaghetti. This recipe is perfect for those seeking a satisfying meal that is both easy to make and delicious. It's a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on a busy weeknight or served at a casual gathering with friends and family.
Ingredients:
- ½-pound thin spaghetti noodles
- 3 cups chopped, cooked chicken
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- ½ cup finely minced onion
- ¼ cup finely minced bell pepper
- ¼ cup finely minced celery
- 1 medium garlic clove, minced fine
- 1 (10.5 ounce) can original condensed cream of chicken soup (like Campbell's)
- 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel), undrained
- 1 cup chicken stock or broth, or more as needed
- 2 cups shredded cheese, divided
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper, or to taste
Preparation:
Step 1:
Begin by cooking the thin spaghetti noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside.
Step 2:
In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the finely minced onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic to the skillet. Sauté these ingredients until they become soft and fragrant, which typically takes about 5 minutes.
Step 3:
To the sautéed vegetables, add the chopped, cooked chicken. Stir to combine and allow the chicken to warm through and integrate with the flavors of the vegetables.
Step 4:
Stir in the condensed cream of chicken soup and the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies (including the liquid). Mix these ingredients well to create a rich and creamy sauce.
Step 5:
Gradually pour in the chicken stock or broth, adjusting the amount as needed to achieve your desired consistency for the sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 6:
Add half of the shredded cheese to the skillet, stirring until it melts completely into the sauce. Season the mixture with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
Step 7:
Finally, add the cooked spaghetti noodles to the skillet. Toss everything together, ensuring that the noodles are fully coated with the creamy, cheesy sauce. If the mixture seems too thick, you can add a bit more chicken stock or broth
Step 8:
Once the spaghetti is well mixed with the sauce, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Allow the cheese to melt thoroughly, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
COOKING Note:
This dish is best served fresh and hot. The key to a perfectly creamy and flavorful Stovetop Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti is in the consistency of the sauce. Adjust the amount of chicken stock or broth as needed to keep the sauce from becoming too thick or too runny.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this delicious Stovetop Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad. It pairs well with a light white wine or a refreshing iced tea.
Tips:
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese for different flavors. A mix of cheddar and mozzarella can be a great combination.
- Vegetable Add-ins: Add mushrooms, spinach, or other vegetables for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Leftover Chicken: This recipe is a great way to use up leftover chicken, or you can quickly cook chicken breasts or thighs specifically for this recipe.
- Spice it Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or extra diced chilies.
Prep Time:
- Preparation Time: Approximately 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: Approximately 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 450-500 per serving (varies based on ingredients used)
- Protein: 25-30g per serving
- Sodium: 600-700mg per serving
Conclusion
Stovetop Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti is not just a meal; it's a comfort food experience. It's a perfect blend of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and cheesy goodness, all combined with the classic favorite - spaghetti. This dish is sure to become a beloved meal in your household, bringing smiles and satisfaction to any dinner table. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is easy to make and hard to resist!
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