When the days grow long and the air turns chilly, or when you simply need a hug from the inside, cheesy chicken spaghetti is the dish that comes to the rescue. This heartwarming recipe intertwines the creamy textures of cheese and tender chicken with the familiar comfort of spaghetti, creating a meal that feels like home. Whether you’re looking for a weekday dinner that pleases both kids and adults, or need a satisfying dish for a casual gathering, this cheesy chicken spaghetti will not disappoint.
Ingredients:
To create this comforting dish, you’ll need the following ingredients, which are readily available and may already be in your pantry:
- Spaghetti: 12 oz, cooked al dente
- Chicken: 2 cups, cooked and either shredded or cubed
- Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup, grated
- Mozzarella Cheese: 1 cup, grated
- Cream of Chicken Soup: 1 can (10.5 oz)
- Sour Cream: 1 cup
- Milk: 1 cup
- Frozen Peas and Carrots: 1 cup
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup, grated
- Olive Oil: 1 tbsp
- Garlic Powder: 1/2 tsp
- Onion Powder: 1/2 tsp
- Salt and Pepper: to taste
- Fresh Parsley: 1/4 cup, chopped (optional for garnish)
Directions and Preparation Method:
Cooking the Spaghetti:
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking once your assembly is complete.
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the spaghetti according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. This means the pasta should be cooked through but still firm to the bite. Drain the spaghetti well and set aside.
Preparing the Sauce:
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and milk. To this, add garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper, adjusting these seasonings to your taste.
- Add Chicken and Vegetables: Stir in the cooked chicken and frozen peas and carrots to the creamy mixture.
- Incorporate Cheeses: Mix in half of the grated cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, reserving the rest for topping.
Combining and Baking:
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce mixture and toss until every strand is beautifully coated.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Grease a baking dish with olive oil and pour the spaghetti mixture into it. Spread it evenly.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar, mozzarella, and all of the Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.
Conclusion:
Cheesy chicken spaghetti is more than just a meal; it’s a versatile dish that brings comfort and smiles to the dinner table. It’s perfect for those who love a cheesy goodness with their pasta, and the added chicken makes it a hearty choice that satisfies hunger thoroughly. The ease of preparation combined with its delicious outcome makes it a favorite among home cooks looking for reliable and fulfilling recipes.