This creamy chicken spaghetti recipe is a perfect combination of tender chicken pieces, rich, velvety cream sauce, and al dente pasta, all brought together in under 30 minutes! Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or something comforting on the weekend, this dish will never disappoint.
Its luscious sauce clings beautifully to the spaghetti, and the Parmesan cheese adds depth and umami. Plus, the option to add veggies makes this a versatile recipe that can be adapted to different tastes and preferences.
Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Ingredients
Chicken spaghetti is made with a combination of tender chicken pieces and al dente spaghetti pasta, coated in a creamy, flavorful sauce. The key ingredients include boneless chicken breast or thighs, cooked and shredded for a rich, savory base.
Spaghetti is used as the main pasta, which pairs we with the sauce. A creamy, cheesy sauce is made from ingredients like cream, cheese, and sometimes milk or broth for added moisture.
Seasonings such as garlic, onions, salt, black pepper and optional herbs like oregano or basil enhance the flavor, while vegetables like bell peppers or tomatoes can add extra texture and taste.
Table of Contents
Creamy Spaghetti Variations:
Spicy Version– Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to give the dish a spicy kick.
Protein Swaps– You can substitute the chicken with shrimp, turkey, or tofu for a vegetarian option.
Lighter Version– Use half-and-half or low-fat cream to reduce the calories while still maintaining a creamy texture.
Pro Tips:
Properly Cook the Pasta
Make sure to cook your pasta al dente (firm to the bite), as it will continue cooking slightly when mixed with the sauce.
Reserve Pasta Water
This starchy water can help to loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick.
Use Fresh Ingredients
Fresh garlic, Parmesan, and parsley make a big difference in the flavor of this dish.
Don’t Overcook the Chicken
Chicken breast can dry out easily. Slice it thin and cook quickly for juicy, tender results.
Veggie Additions
If adding vegetables, make sure to sauté them in the same pan after the chicken to build layers of flavor. Spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers work well.
Storing Leftovers:
Refrigeration– Store any leftover creamy pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to bring back the creaminess.
Freezing– You can freeze this dish, but keep in mind that cream-based sauces can sometimes change texture after thawing. Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm on the stovetop, adding a bit of milk or broth to the sauce.
FAQs:
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you like. Penne, fettuccine, and even spaghetti work well. For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free pasta.
How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?
The key is to stir in the Parmesan gradually and keep an eye on the consistency. You can always add a splash of pasta water or milk to loosen it up.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Spinach, mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or peas make great additions to creamy chicken spaghetti.
How do you keep spaghetti creamy?
To make creamy pasta, cook it al dente in salted water. Drain the pasta, but reserve some of the pasta water. Toss the pasta with your sauce, and if needed, add a spoonful of the reserved pasta water,milk or broth to thin the sauce and help it cling to the pasta. The starch from the water helps the sauce stick and keeps the pasta as creamy as possible.
Why do you put milk in spaghetti sauce?
Though it may seem unusual to add milk to a meaty red sauce, it’s a staple in traditional Italian cooking. As Food Director Amira explains, milk not only adds richness to bolognese but also balances the acidity of the tomatoes and red wine.
Here are more easy and delicious recipes for you to try.
Baked ginger -lemon flavored chicken wings
Creamy Chicken Spaghetti : Rich & Delicious
Description
This creamy chicken spaghetti combines tender chicken with a rich, creamy sauce in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a comforting weekend dish, the Parmesan adds depth, and the option to include veggies makes it versatile for different tastes
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Cook the Pasta:
- Boil water in a large pot, ensuring that the water is well-salted. The salt helps to flavor the pasta from the inside out. Use a general ratio of 1 tablespoon of salt for every 4 quarts of water.
- Once the water reaches a rolling boil, add the pasta. Stir immediately to prevent it from sticking together.
- Cook according to the package instructions until al dente. For most pasta types, this will take about 8-12 minutes. You want the pasta to retain a slight firmness when bitten.
- Once done, drain the pasta, but reserve about a cup of the pasta water. This starchy water can be used later to adjust the consistency of the sauce.
-
Prepare the Chicken:
- While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. The combination of butter and oil ensures flavor and prevents the butter from burning.
- Season the chicken strips with salt and pepper on both sides. Place them in the hot skillet and cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 4-5 minutes per side. Make sure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate. Cover it with foil to keep it warm
-
Make the Cream Sauce:
-
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
- Now add finely chopped mushrooms (if using) and saute for another 2 minutes.
-
- Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Allow the cream to come to a gentle simmer but not a full boil, as this could cause the cream to curdle.
-
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese gradually, allowing it to melt into the sauce. The cheese will thicken the sauce as it melts, creating that velvety texture. If the sauce gets too thick, use a splash of the reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.
-
-
Combine the Pasta and Chicken:
-
- Add the cooked pasta and chicken strips back into the pan with the sauce.
- Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce, and the chicken is evenly distributed.
-
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
-
-
Garnish and Serve:
Serve the creamy chicken pasta hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Servings 5
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 470kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 22.9g36%
- Saturated Fat 10.5g53%
- Total Carbohydrate 36.6g13%
- Dietary Fiber 7g29%
- Sugars 3g
- Protein 30.1g61%
- Calcium 20 mg
- Iron 21.5 mg
- Vitamin D 5.8 IU
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
