Easy Chicken Spaghetti Recipe: Creamy, Delicious, and Family-Friendly

Dinnertime. The daily struggle, right? Juggling work, kids, and a million other things, you just want something quick, easy, and, most importantly, something everyone will actually eat. I've been there, trust me. That's why I'm sharing my go-to recipe for chicken spaghetti – a crowd-pleaser that's always a hit, even with the pickiest eaters. It's got that creamy, comforting flavour that everyone loves, and the best part? It's incredibly easy to make.

I remember the first time I made this dish. I was a young mum, trying to juggle work, kids, and everything in between. I was desperate for a quick and easy dinner solution, and this chicken spaghetti recipe was my saving grace. It was a revelation! Simple enough for even a novice cook, and delicious enough to impress even the fussiest eaters.

Over the years, this recipe has become a family favourite. It's been the star of countless dinner parties, picnics, and even school lunchboxes. It's versatile, too. You can easily adapt it to your preferences and whatever you have in the fridge. Want to add some extra vegetables? Go for it! Feeling fancy? Top it off with some fresh herbs or grated Parmesan cheese. The possibilities are endless.

So, grab your aprons, gather your ingredients, and let's get cooking! I promise, this is a recipe that will become a staple in your kitchen, just like it has in mine.

(Part 1) The Secret to Creamy Perfection: The Sauce

Let's start with the heart and soul of this dish, the creamy, dreamy sauce. This is where the magic happens. Forget those jarred sauces, we're going homemade, and it's easier than you think.

The Key Ingredients

This sauce is all about simplicity and using the best quality ingredients. Here's what you'll need:

1. Butter: I like to use unsalted butter for better control over the saltiness. It adds a lovely richness to the sauce. You can also use olive oil if you prefer, but the butter adds that extra touch of indulgence.
2. Flour: This is our thickening agent. It’s the secret to creating that velvety texture that makes the sauce so irresistible. Don’t skip this step, it's crucial!
3. Milk: Whole milk is the way to go here. It creates a luxuriously creamy base. If you're watching your fat intake, you can use low-fat milk, but the sauce might not be as thick.
4. chicken broth: This is where the depth and flavour really come in. Chicken broth adds that extra oomph that elevates the sauce to another level.
5. Seasonings: Salt and pepper are essential, of course. But don't stop there! I love adding a touch of garlic powder and onion powder for an extra flavour boost. A sprinkle of dried herbs like oregano or basil adds a lovely aroma and depth of flavour too. Experiment and find your perfect combination!

Making the Sauce

Okay, let's get down to business and whip up this amazing sauce. It’s so easy, you’ll be amazed! Follow these steps:

1. Melt the butter: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. You want it nice and bubbly, but not burnt!
2. Whisk in the flour: Add the flour to the melted butter and whisk vigorously until it's fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth. There should be no lumps at all.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk: Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly. This step is key to preventing lumps from forming. Keep whisking until the milk is fully incorporated.
4. Add the chicken broth: Stir in the chicken broth until well combined. The sauce will start to thicken as it warms up.
5. Bring to a simmer: Bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring frequently. This allows the sauce to thicken and develop its flavour.
6. Cook until thickened: Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly. It should coat the back of a spoon.
7. Season: Now it's time to season! Add salt and pepper to taste, and feel free to experiment with your favourite herbs and spices. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick.

That's it! You've just created a creamy, flavourful sauce that will make your chicken spaghetti truly special.

(Part 2) The Star of the Show: The Chicken

Now, let's talk about the protein that brings this dish to life: the chicken. I prefer to use cooked chicken, saving me time and effort. But, if you've got some time to spare, feel free to cook your own.

Using Cooked Chicken

Here are my favourite options for using cooked chicken:

1. Rotisserie chicken: This is my go-to option. It's already cooked and incredibly convenient. Just grab one from the supermarket, shred it with two forks, and you're ready to go.
2. Leftover chicken: Got some leftover chicken in the fridge? This is a great way to use it up. Shred it and add it to the sauce.
3. Grilled or baked chicken breasts: If you're feeling ambitious, you can grill or bake chicken breasts ahead of time. Just make sure they're cooked through.

Cooking Your Own Chicken

If you're cooking your own chicken, try baking or grilling it. You can also use a slow cooker for super tender chicken. Here are some tips for cooking chicken:

1. Baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and your favourite herbs. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
2. Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and your favourite herbs. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Slow Cooker: Place chicken breasts in a slow cooker. Add chicken broth, salt, pepper, and your favourite herbs. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until cooked through.

Once your chicken is cooked, shred it using two forks. It will be easier to mix into the sauce this way.

(Part 3) The Foundation: The Spaghetti

Of course, no chicken spaghetti recipe is complete without spaghetti! Choose your favourite brand. I usually go for a good quality, basic spaghetti, but you can experiment with different types, like whole wheat or gluten-free spaghetti, if you like.

Cooking the Spaghetti

Here's how to cook the spaghetti to perfection:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil: Add the spaghetti to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions. The water should be generously salted, about 1 tablespoon per gallon of water. This will season the pasta and make it more flavorful.
2. Drain the spaghetti: Once the spaghetti is cooked al dente (still slightly firm), drain it in a colander. Don't overcook it or it will become mushy.

You can also add a tablespoon of olive oil to the water to prevent the spaghetti from sticking together.

(Part 4) Bringing it All Together: Assembling the Dish

Now for the fun part: combining all the delicious components. This is where it gets exciting.

Combining the Ingredients

Here's how to bring everything together:

1. Add the chicken: Add the cooked chicken to the creamy sauce and stir to combine.
2. Add the spaghetti: Add the drained spaghetti to the sauce and chicken mixture.
3. Toss to combine: Gently toss everything together until the spaghetti is well coated in the sauce. Don't overmix, or the spaghetti will become mushy.

If the sauce seems a bit thick, you can add a little more milk or chicken broth to loosen it up.

(Part 5) Adding Extra Flavour: The Garnishes

This is where you can get creative. Adding a few garnishes can elevate this dish from good to great.

Garnish Options

Here are some of my favourite garnish options:

1. Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley, basil, or oregano adds a beautiful touch of freshness. The herbs will brighten up the dish and give it a more vibrant flavour.
2. Grated Parmesan cheese: This classic pairing adds a salty, cheesy flavour. It complements the creamy sauce beautifully and adds a nice textural element.
3. Chopped green onions: For a bit of colour and a subtle onion flavour. Green onions add a refreshing touch and a bit of visual appeal.
4. Red pepper flakes: A touch of heat for those who like it spicy. If you're a fan of spicy food, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes will give your chicken spaghetti a nice kick.

(Part 6) Serving Up Deliciousness

You've done it! Your chicken spaghetti is ready. Serve it hot and enjoy.

Serving Suggestions

Here are some ideas for serving your chicken spaghetti:

1. Garnish with fresh herbs or cheese: Add a sprinkle of your favourite garnishes for extra flavour and visual appeal.
2. Serve with a side salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can complement the rich flavour of the chicken spaghetti.
3. Add a crusty bread: A slice of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.

(Part 7) Tips for Success

To make this recipe even easier, here are a few tips:

1. Use pre-shredded cheese: Save yourself some time and use pre-shredded cheese instead of grating it yourself. The pre-shredded cheese often has additives that prevent it from clumping together.
2. Use a slow cooker: If you have a slow cooker, you can easily make this dish in it. Simply combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. This is a great option if you're short on time or want to make a big batch for a crowd.
3. Make ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated. Simply store the cooked chicken spaghetti in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

(Part 8) Variations on the Classic

Feeling adventurous? Here are a few variations on the classic recipe:

Variations

1. Add vegetables: Stir in some chopped broccoli, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra flavour and nutrition. You can also add spinach or other leafy greens.
2. Use different pasta: Try using rotini, penne, or fettuccine for a different twist. These pasta shapes will hold the sauce well and add a different texture.
3. Make it spicy: Add a dash of red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick. You can adjust the amount of spice to your liking.
4. Make it vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with cooked mushrooms, chickpeas, or tofu. These options add protein and a different flavour profile to the dish.

(Part 9) Nutritional Information

Here's a quick look at the nutritional information per serving of this recipe. Keep in mind, this is just an estimate, and the actual nutritional content may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

To make this recipe even healthier, use whole-wheat spaghetti, lean chicken, and low-fat milk. You can also add more vegetables for extra nutrients.

(Part 10) FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this recipe:

1. Can I use frozen chicken instead of cooked chicken? Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure it's fully thawed and cooked through before adding it to the sauce. You can either bake, grill, or slow-cook the frozen chicken until it’s cooked through.
2. What kind of milk is best for this recipe? Whole milk works best for a creamy texture. You can use low-fat milk if you prefer, but the sauce may not be as thick. If you’re using low-fat milk, you might need to add a little cornstarch or flour to thicken the sauce.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time and reheat it. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to reheat it, you can do so in the microwave or on the stovetop.
4. How can I make this recipe healthier? You can use whole-wheat spaghetti, lean chicken, and low-fat milk. You can also add more vegetables for extra nutrients. Experiment with different vegetables, like broccoli, spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
5. What are some other variations on this recipe? You can add different vegetables, use different types of pasta, or even make it vegetarian by substituting the chicken with mushrooms, chickpeas, or tofu. Get creative and see what you come up with!

I hope you enjoy this easy and delicious chicken spaghetti recipe. It's a real crowd-pleaser and a great option for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Let me know what you think in the comments below! Happy cooking!