Easy Chicken Spaghetti Quick and Creamy Dinner Dish

Looking for a quick and tasty dinner? This Easy Chicken Spaghetti recipe is just for you! In under 30 minutes, you can whip up a creamy dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. I’ll share simple steps, ingredient swaps, and helpful tips to make this meal a new family favorite. Get ready to serve up a comforting dinner that’s both easy and delicious!

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 8 oz spaghetti

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 1 lb chicken breast, sliced

– 4 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs

– 1 cup heavy cream

– 1 cup chicken broth

– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap the spaghetti for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. Chicken breast can be replaced with turkey or tofu for a different taste. If you prefer a lighter sauce, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. For a dairy-free option, try coconut milk or cashew cream. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian twist.

Special Considerations

When cooking chicken, make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety. Always taste your sauce before serving. Adjust salt and pepper to suit your taste. If you’re not a fan of cherry tomatoes, feel free to skip them. Fresh basil adds flavor, but you can use dried herbs if fresh isn’t available.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Spaghetti

First, fill a large pot with water. Add salt and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add 8 ounces of spaghetti. Cook it according to the package instructions. You want it to be al dente, which means firm but cooked. After cooking, drain the spaghetti and keep ½ cup of pasta water. Set the spaghetti aside.

Sautéing the Chicken

Next, grab a large skillet and heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Slice 1 pound of chicken breast into thin pieces. Add the chicken to the skillet. Season it with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of dried Italian herbs. Cook the chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes. You want it to be golden brown and fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Preparing the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, add 4 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté it for about 1 minute. Be careful not to let it burn; burnt garlic tastes bitter. Then, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of chicken broth. Stir well to mix them. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once it simmers, lower the heat to medium-low.

Combining Ingredients

Now, add 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes to the sauce. Let them cook for about 3 to 4 minutes to soften. Next, stir in the cooked chicken and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Mix everything until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy. Finally, add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Toss gently to coat the pasta. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water. Adjust the taste with more salt and pepper if needed.

Tips & Tricks

How to Make the Perfect Creamy Sauce

To make a great creamy sauce, start with fresh ingredients. Use heavy cream for richness. Mix in chicken broth for depth of flavor. When you add the garlic, cook it just until fragrant. This step adds a nice touch without burning it. Stir the sauce often to help it thicken evenly. If it gets too thick, add a bit of reserved pasta water. This keeps everything smooth and creamy. Lastly, stir in Parmesan cheese while the sauce simmers. This makes it extra rich and delicious.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake is overcooking the chicken. Cook it just until golden brown. If you cook it too long, it can become dry. Another mistake is adding the garlic too early. Garlic can burn quickly, turning bitter. Always add it last for the best taste. Also, don’t skip the reserved pasta water. It helps the sauce coat the spaghetti without being too thick. Lastly, be careful with the salt. Taste as you go to find the right balance.

Serving Suggestions

For a nice touch, serve your chicken spaghetti with fresh basil on top. It adds color and flavor. You can also sprinkle more Parmesan cheese for extra creaminess. Pair this dish with a simple salad for freshness. A side of garlic bread also makes a great match. If you want a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes. This can spice things up just right. Enjoy your meal with family or friends for a cozy dinner!

Variations

Vegetarian Options

You can easily make this dish vegetarian. Simply swap the chicken for mushrooms or tofu. Both options add a nice texture. Use the same amount as the chicken. Sauté them until they turn golden brown. This way, you still enjoy that rich, creamy sauce.

Different Sauces to Try

While the creamy garlic sauce shines, you can explore other flavors. Try a tomato-based sauce for a lighter twist. Just use crushed tomatoes instead of cream. You could also mix in pesto for a fresh taste. Each sauce brings a new life to the dish.

Adding Vegetables

Boost nutrition by adding veggies. Spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini work great. Sauté them along with the garlic for a few minutes. This keeps them crisp and bright. You can even toss in broccoli or peas for color and flavor.

Storage Info

Proper Storage Techniques

To keep your chicken spaghetti fresh, let it cool first. Use an airtight container for storage. Place the leftovers in the fridge. You can store them for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing.

Reheating Instructions

When ready to eat, you can reheat the chicken spaghetti easily. Use a microwave or a skillet. If using a microwave, heat in short bursts. Stir between each burst to ensure even warming. If using a skillet, add a splash of water or broth to keep it creamy. Heat on low until warm.

Freezing for Later Use

To freeze your chicken spaghetti, pack it in a freezer-safe container. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. It can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Then, reheat it as mentioned above. This way, you can enjoy this quick and creamy dish anytime!

FAQs

What Can I Use Instead of Chicken?

You can use turkey or tofu if you want a change. Both options work well. Turkey has a similar taste to chicken, so it blends nicely. Tofu adds a nice texture and absorbs flavors well. Try using the same spices for best results.

Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can make this dish ahead. Cook the chicken and sauce, then store them. Keep the spaghetti separate until you are ready to serve. This helps prevent sogginess. You can also reheat the sauce before mixing it with the pasta.

How Do I Store Leftover Chicken Spaghetti?

Store leftover chicken spaghetti in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh for up to three days. When ready to eat, simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of water or cream to keep it creamy.

What Are Some Pairing Suggestions?

This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad. A simple Caesar salad or a fresh garden salad works great. You can also serve garlic bread on the side. This adds a nice touch to your meal. For drinks, try a light white wine or sparkling water.

This article covered how to make a tasty chicken spaghetti dish. We explored the ingredients, steps, and tips needed for success. You learned about ingredient swaps and special needs for making it your own. I shared storage tips to keep leftovers fresh and tasty.

In the end, enjoy cooking and make this meal fit your taste. Happy eatin