Easy Chicken Spaghetti Recipe is the perfect choice. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making it an ideal dish for busy weeknights. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a comforting homemade meal on the table in 30 minutes.
This Easy Chicken Spaghetti Recipe is made with tender shredded chicken, perfectly cooked spaghetti, and a rich, creamy sauce. The combination of cheddar and mozzarella cheese melts beautifully, creating a smooth and velvety texture. Plus, this dish is easy to customize—add your favorite veggies, seasonings, or extra cheese for even more flavor.
Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this Easy Chicken Spaghetti Recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. It’s quick, satisfying, and absolutely delicious! Let’s get started on making this simple yet flavorful chicken spaghetti.
Easy Chicken Spaghetti Recipe Ingredients
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this easy chicken spaghetti recipe, you’ll need:
- Chicken – Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cooked and shredded.
- Spaghetti noodles – Classic or whole wheat, cooked al dente.
- Chicken broth – Adds flavor and moisture to the sauce.
- Cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup – The key to a rich, creamy sauce.
- Cheese – A mix of cheddar and mozzarella for the best melt.
- Diced tomatoes with green chilies – Adds a slight kick.
- Garlic & onion – Essential for depth of flavor.
- Butter – Enhances the creaminess.
- Salt, pepper & Italian seasoning – Brings everything together.
Best Cheese for Creamy Easy Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
Cheese is one of the most important ingredients in this dish. The best options include:
- Cheddar cheese – Sharp and flavorful.
- Mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully for a gooey texture.
- Parmesan cheese – Adds a nutty, salty kick.
- Colby Jack – A mild, creamy option.
For an extra creamy texture, you can also add cream cheese or Velveeta.
Optional Add-ins for Extra Flavor
Want to level up your chicken spaghetti? Try these add-ins:
- Bell peppers or mushrooms – Adds texture and a slight sweetness.
- Red pepper flakes – For those who like a bit of heat.
- Bacon bits – Adds a smoky, crispy touch.
- Fresh basil or parsley – Gives a pop of freshness.
How to Cook Chicken for Spaghetti
Boiling vs. Baking: Which is Better?
Before mixing everything together, you’ll need cooked and shredded chicken. Here are the best ways to prepare it:
- Boiling: A quick and easy method.
- Bring a pot of water or chicken broth to a boil.
- Add boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs and simmer for 15-20 minutes until fully cooked.
- Remove the chicken, let it rest for a few minutes, and shred it.
- Baking: Adds more flavor.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, and a little olive oil.
- Bake for 25 minutes, then shred once cooled.
- Rotisserie Chicken: The ultimate shortcut!
- Just buy a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken, remove the skin, and shred the meat.
How to Shred Chicken Easily
Once your chicken is cooked, use one of these methods to shred it:
- Fork Method: Hold the chicken in place with one fork and pull apart with another.
- Hand Mixer Method: Place chicken in a bowl and mix on low speed for 30 seconds.
- Food Processor Method: Use the pulse function for quick, even shredding.
Shredding while the chicken is warm makes the process much easier!
How to Make a Simple Chicken Spaghetti
Now that your chicken is ready, it’s time to bring everything together! This easy chicken spaghetti recipe comes together in three simple steps.
Step 1: Cooking the Spaghetti to Perfection
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the spaghetti and cook 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions (it will finish cooking in the sauce).
- Drain the pasta and set it aside.
💡 Tip: Don’t rinse the spaghetti! The starch helps the sauce stick to the noodles.
Step 2: Preparing the Creamy Chicken Sauce
- In a large deep skillet or pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and garlic; cook until soft and fragrant.
- Stir in cream of mushroom (or chicken) soup and chicken broth.
- Add diced tomatoes with green chilies for extra flavor.
- Let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
💡 Tip: For a richer sauce, stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or cream cheese.
Step 3: Combining Everything for the Best Flavor
- Add the shredded chicken to the sauce and mix well.
- Toss in the cooked spaghetti, making sure everything is evenly coated.
- Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
- Let everything simmer for 2-3 more minutes, then serve hot!
💡 Tip: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water.
What to Put in Chicken Spaghetti for More Flavor
Want to take your easy chicken spaghetti recipe to the next level? Here are some simple ways to add extra flavor and texture!
The Best Seasonings for Easy Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
A well-seasoned dish makes all the difference! Add these spices for a richer taste:
- Garlic powder – Enhances the savory flavor.
- Onion powder – Adds mild sweetness.
- Paprika – Gives a smoky, slightly spicy kick.
- Italian seasoning – A blend of oregano, basil, and thyme for extra depth.
- Black pepper & salt – Balances all the flavors.
💡 Tip: If you like spice, add ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce!
Fresh vs. Dried Herbs: What Works Best?
- Dried herbs – Work best while cooking since they release flavor slowly.
- Fresh herbs – Should be added at the end for a burst of freshness.
🟢 Best fresh herbs: Parsley, basil, and chives.
Adding Vegetables for Extra Texture
Want a healthier, more filling dish? Add these veggies:
- Bell peppers – For a slight crunch and sweetness.
- Mushrooms – A meaty texture that pairs well with chicken.
- Spinach – Wilts perfectly into the sauce for extra nutrients.
- Peas or carrots – Great for adding a mild sweetness.
💡 Tip: Sauté veggies with the onions and garlic for the best flavor!
What Kind of Cheese is Good in Chicken Spaghetti?
Cheese is one of the key ingredients that makes this easy chicken spaghetti recipe creamy and delicious. Choosing the right cheese can make all the difference!
Classic Cheeses for a Creamy Texture
The best cheeses for chicken spaghetti are:
- Cheddar cheese – Sharp and flavorful, it melts beautifully into the sauce.
- Mozzarella cheese – Adds a stretchy, gooey texture.
- Parmesan cheese – Gives a nutty, salty kick.
- Colby Jack – A mild, creamy option that blends well.
💡 Tip: For an ultra-creamy texture, stir in cream cheese or Velveeta while making the sauce.
Melting vs. Sharp Cheeses: What to Choose?
- For a smooth, creamy sauce, use melting cheeses like mozzarella, Colby Jack, or Velveeta.
- For a bold, rich flavor, go with sharp cheddar or Parmesan.
Dairy-Free Alternatives for a Lighter Dish
Need a dairy-free option? Try:
- Nutritional yeast – Adds a cheesy flavor without dairy.
- Dairy-free shredded cheese – Almond, coconut, or cashew-based options melt well.
- Cashew cream or coconut milk – Great for creating a creamy texture.
💡 Tip: Mix different cheeses for a balanced flavor—cheddar for sharpness, mozzarella for creaminess, and Parmesan for depth!
How to Make Simple Spaghetti Better
Even the easiest spaghetti can be elevated with a few simple tricks! Here’s how to make your chicken spaghetti taste even better.
The Best Pasta Cooking Tips
- Salt the water well – This enhances the flavor of the spaghetti.
- Cook 1-2 minutes less than the package says – The pasta will finish cooking in the sauce.
- Reserve pasta water – A splash of starchy pasta water helps the sauce stick better.
💡 Tip: Never rinse spaghetti unless you’re making a cold pasta salad! The starch helps the sauce cling to the noodles.
Secret Ingredients for an Extra Delicious Sauce
Want your chicken spaghetti sauce to be even richer? Try these ingredients:
- A pinch of sugar – Balances the acidity from the tomatoes.
- A splash of heavy cream – Makes the sauce extra smooth.
- A drizzle of olive oil – Adds a silky finish.
- A squeeze of lemon juice – Brightens up all the flavors.
💡 Tip: If your sauce is too thick, add a little chicken broth or reserved pasta water to thin it out.
How to Prevent Soggy or Sticky Spaghetti
- Drain well and toss with a little olive oil if storing for later.
- Mix the pasta with the sauce immediately to prevent it from drying out.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to store and reheat your easy chicken spaghetti while keeping it creamy and delicious.
How to Store Leftover Chicken Spaghetti
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months.
💡 Tip: Let the spaghetti cool before storing it to prevent condensation, which can make it soggy.
The Best Way to Reheat Without Drying Out
- Microwave: Add a splash of milk or chicken broth, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
- Stovetop: Heat over low heat with a little butter or broth, stirring frequently.
- Oven (for large portions): Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.
💡 Tip: Avoid overheating! Low and slow reheating keeps the spaghetti creamy.
Can You Freeze Easy Chicken Spaghetti Recipe?
Yes! To freeze:
- Let the spaghetti cool completely.
- Store in portioned containers for easy meals.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
💡 Tip: If freezing, slightly undercook the pasta so it doesn’t turn mushy when reheated.
FAQs About Chicken Spaghetti
What to put in chicken spaghetti?
A classic chicken spaghetti recipe includes shredded chicken, spaghetti noodles, cheese, cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and seasonings. You can also add veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms, extra spices, or crispy bacon for more flavor.
How to make a simple chicken pasta?
To make a simple chicken spaghetti, follow these steps:
- Cook and shred chicken.
- Boil spaghetti until slightly undercooked.
- Prepare a creamy sauce with soup, broth, cheese, and seasonings.
- Mix everything together and let it simmer for a few minutes.
💡 Tip: If you want a lighter version, use Greek yogurt or a light cream sauce instead of canned soup.
What kind of cheese is good in chicken spaghetti?
The best cheeses for chicken spaghetti are:
- Cheddar cheese – Adds a rich, sharp flavor.
- Mozzarella cheese – Melts smoothly for a creamy texture.
- Parmesan cheese – Gives a salty, nutty kick.
- Colby Jack – A mild, balanced option.
💡 Tip: For an extra creamy texture, add cream cheese or Velveeta to the sauce.
How to make simple spaghetti better?
- Use high-quality cheese for better melting.
- Add fresh herbs like parsley or basil for extra freshness.
- Season well with garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Toss with olive oil before mixing in the sauce to prevent clumping.
💡 Tip: A splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water can help create a silkier sauce.
Conclusion
Now you know how to make the best easy chicken spaghetti recipe! This dish is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor—perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight meal or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite.
Final Tips for Easy Chicken Spaghetti Recipe:
✔ Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt and creaminess.
✔ Don’t overcook the pasta—it will continue to cook in the sauce.
✔ Add a splash of broth or pasta water if the sauce gets too thick.
✔ Customize with veggies or spices to suit your taste.
✔ Store leftovers properly and reheat with a little milk or broth to keep it creamy.
Try this recipe tonight and see why it’s a family favorite! If you loved this dish, check out more delicious recipes on MrsRecipes.com.