Creamy Dreamy Chicken Spaghetti

My Creamy Dreamy chicken spaghetti recipe is pure comfort! This Southern classic is easy to make & perfect for weeknights. Learn my secret for extra flavour!

Alright, buckle up buttercups, because we're diving headfirst into the glorious world of Chicken Spaghetti recipe ! Honestly, is there anything more comforting than a big ol' bowl of creamy, cheesy goodness? It's like a warm hug from your grandma, you know?

Creamy Dreamy Chicken Spaghetti: Your New Go-To Comfort Food

Ever wonder where this magical concoction came from? this southern chicken spaghetti recipe is a true southern belle. think of it as pure comfort food, originating in the american south.

This creamy, cheesy, slightly tangy dish is guaranteed to become a family favourite. this chicken spaghetti recipe features a creamy, slightly tangy flavor profile with a hint of richness from the cheese.

This easy chicken spaghetti bake is seriously simple to make. we're talking easy enough for a weeknight dinner! prep time is about 20 minutes, and the whole thing bakes in about 30.

So, in under an hour, you've got a comfort food chicken spaghetti casserole ready to feed 6-8 hungry folks. it's also the ultimate chicken spaghetti potluck recipe .

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Okay, let's talk benefits. not only is this homemade chicken spaghetti recipe incredibly delicious, but it's also packed with protein, thanks to the chicken.

Perfect for a chilly evening, a family gathering, or even just a "treat yo'self" kind of night. but what truly sets this recipe apart is the sheer, unadulterated joy it brings.

Forget fancy, forget fussy – this is just good, honest food.

The Stars of the Show

To make this Shredded chicken spaghetti recipe a reality, we're going to need a few key players.

• Chicken breasts, because, well, it's chicken spaghetti !
• Spaghetti, the classic noodle choice.
• Butter, for that rich, creamy sauce.
• Flour and milk, to thicken things up.
• Cream of mushroom soup, because it's iconic in this dish!
• Velveeta cheese , for ultimate meltiness.
• And a few other bits and bobs to round out the flavor.

Right, let's get down to brass tacks and chat about what you'll need for this Creamy Dreamy chicken spaghetti recipe . Honestly, it's simpler than you think.

Ingredients & Equipment

Alright, so the heart of any good Southern chicken spaghetti recipe is, well, the ingredients! And a bit of elbow grease, innit?

Main Ingredients

• Chicken Breasts: 1 ½ lbs (680g) of boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Look for plump, pink chicken – that’s the good stuff! If it's looking a bit pale or dodgy, give it a miss.
• Chicken Broth: 4 cups (950ml) . This is your flavour base, so use a good quality one. I sometimes use boullion if i forgot to get the broth.
• Salt & Pepper: 1 teaspoon (5ml) salt , ½ teaspoon (2.5ml) black pepper . Don't skimp on these.
• Spaghetti: 1 lb (450g) . I prefer classic spaghetti, but you could use angel hair.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (30ml) . This stops the spaghetti from sticking.
• Butter: ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter.
• Flour: ½ cup (65g) all-purpose flour. This is what thickens your sauce.
• Milk: 3 cups (710ml) .
• Garlic Powder: ½ teaspoon (2.5ml) .
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: One (10.75 ounce/305g) can. This is where the chicken spaghetti with cream of mushroom bit comes in.
• Diced Pimentos: One (4 ounce/115g) jar, drained. These add a bit of sweetness. If you don't have it, don't worry too much.
• Velveeta Cheese: 8 ounces (225g) , cubed. This is the secret ingredient for that chicken spaghetti with Velveeta creamy-goodness.
• Cheddar Cheese: ½ cup (50g) shredded cheddar cheese. This is optional, but who doesn't love extra cheese, eh?

Seasoning Notes

Now, about the spices! Don’t be shy.

A classic essential spice combination is salt, pepper, and garlic powder. flavour enhancers? honestly, a pinch of nutmeg can work wonders.

For a quick substitution, onion powder instead of garlic if you’re in a pinch. this homemade chicken spaghetti recipe can be easily personalised.

Equipment Needed

• Large Pot: For cooking the chicken and making the sauce.
• 9x13 Inch Baking Dish: For the easy chicken spaghetti bake .
• Whisk: Essential for a smooth sauce.
• Colander: To drain the spaghetti.

For equipment, you don't need anything fancy. a big pot, a colander, a whisk, and a baking dish will do the trick.

If you don't have a whisk, a fork will work. this weeknight chicken spaghetti dinner doesn't require specialist equipment.

And that's it! Get these bits sorted, and you're golden. Next, we'll move onto the method, making this comfort food chicken spaghetti.

Alright, let's dive into making this creamy dreamy chicken spaghetti recipe ! honestly, this is one of those recipes that just screams comfort.

Think of it as a big hug in a bowl. you know? perfect for a chilly evening or when you just need a bit of cheering up.

Cooking Method: Baking the Chicken Spaghetti

Prep Steps: Getting Your Ducks in a Row

First things first, mise en place , darling! chop, measure, and lay out everything before you even think about turning on the hob.

It's like prepping your canvas before painting. it'll save you so much time and prevent that "oh my gosh, i forgot the garlic!" moment.

I like to shred my 680g chicken while it's still warm-ish. seriously, forks work best, trust me on this. just be careful not to burn your fingers, yeah? and always remember – wash your hands! food safety is paramount.

Step-by-Step Process: From Hob to Heaven

Right, let's get cooking:

1. Cook 1 ½ lbs chicken breasts in 950ml broth with 1 tsp salt and ½ tsp pepper until the internal temp reaches 165° F ( 74° C) . Shred and reserve 2 cups broth.
2. Cook 450g spaghetti, drain, and toss with 30ml olive oil.
3. Melt 115g butter, whisk in 65g flour, cook 1 minute . Slowly whisk in 710ml milk until smooth. Add 1 tsp salt, ½ tsp pepper, and ½ tsp garlic powder. Cook until thickened.
4. Stir in cream of mushroom soup, pimentos, 225g Velveeta, chicken, spaghetti, and reserved broth.
5. Pour into a greased 9x13 inch dish. Sprinkle with cheddar, if you like.

Pro Tips: Secrets to Spaghetti Success

Want to kick it up a notch? using good quality ingredients will elevate this classic dish, trust me! add mushrooms for extra flavour.

Don't overcook the chicken, because overcooked chicken will be dry and stringy.

I am a big fan of shredding your own cheese because Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly.

Make-ahead option? absolutely! assemble the easy chicken spaghetti bake , don't bake, cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.

Add 10 minutes to the baking time. you'll have an easy chicken spaghetti dinner . honestly, this southern chicken spaghetti recipe is a winner, every time.

You know?

Alright, let's chat about some extra bits for our chicken spaghetti recipe . you know, the stuff that takes it from good to absolutely brilliant .

Honestly, it's all about the little things!

Recipe Notes: Elevating Your Chicken Spaghetti Game

This isn't just any chicken spaghetti recipe ; it's your comfort food chicken spaghetti ! But first, let's talk about the important extras.

Serving Suggestions: Plating Like a Pro

Presentation matters, yeah? for a chicken spaghetti potluck recipe , think about individual ramekins. fancy! a simple sprinkle of fresh parsley brightens everything up.

A side of toasted garlic bread is a must. a crisp green salad cuts through the richness. sweet tea or lemonade? chef's kiss .

Storage Tips: Keepin' it Fresh

Got leftovers? lucky you! pop the creamy chicken spaghetti casserole in the fridge for up to 3 days. make sure it's in an airtight container though.

Freezing works too! wrap it well and it'll last a month. reheating? oven or microwave. job's a good'un.

Variations: Twist it Up!

Want a southern chicken spaghetti recipe with a kick? add some jalapenos! boom. need a gluten-free version? use gluten-free spaghetti.

The sauce can easily be adapted for those following a gluten free diet by swapping the flour with a gluten-free alternative and checking that the cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free as well.

Easy peasy. i remember the first time i tried to make it healthy… oh my gosh , what a disaster.

Live and learn, eh?

Nutrition Basics: Food for the Soul (and Body)

Okay, so this chicken spaghetti with velveeta is a treat. not exactly a health food. but it's got protein from the chicken, carbs for energy, and.

.. well, cheese for happiness! portion control is key. don't forget to get some fruits and veg too! i like to simplify things!

This easy chicken spaghetti bake isn't just a recipe, it's a hug in a dish! have fun making it. don't stress about perfection.

Just enjoy the process and the deliciousness that follows. now go forth and create some homemade chicken spaghetti recipe magic! this is perfect for a weeknight chicken spaghetti dinner .

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this chicken spaghetti recipe ahead of time? I'm a bit of a busy bee!

Absolutely! You can assemble the chicken spaghetti in the baking dish a day ahead of time. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through, but it's a great way to save time on a busy weeknight!

What's the best way to store leftover chicken spaghetti? And how long will it keep?

Leftover chicken spaghetti is brilliant for lunch the next day! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, you might want to add a splash of milk or chicken broth to help restore some of the creaminess, as it can dry out a bit. A quick zap in the microwave or a gentle warm-up in the oven works a treat.

I don't have Velveeta. Can I substitute it with something else in this chicken spaghetti recipe?

Good question! Velveeta is great for a super smooth, cheesy sauce, but you can definitely use substitutes. Cream cheese will work but will yield a slightly different texture. Shredded cheddar, Colby Jack, or mozzarella can also be used, but the sauce might not be as consistently smooth. Just be sure to grate your own cheese for best melting results – pre-shredded cheese sometimes has additives that can hinder melting.

Any tips for preventing my chicken from drying out when making this chicken spaghetti recipe?

Nobody wants dry chicken! To keep your chicken lovely and moist, don't overcook it. Simmering it gently in chicken broth, as the recipe suggests, is key. Also, be sure to shred the chicken rather than cutting it into cubes, as the smaller pieces tend to absorb more of the creamy sauce. Finally, remember that the chicken will continue to cook a little in the oven, so don't be afraid to take it out of the simmering broth just before you think it's fully cooked.

Is there a healthier way to make this creamy chicken spaghetti recipe? I'm trying to be a bit more virtuous!

You can absolutely lighten it up! Consider using whole wheat spaghetti for extra fibre. Swap regular milk for skim milk or unsweetened almond milk and look for a reduced-fat version of cream of mushroom soup. You could also add more vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to bulk it up and add nutrients without extra calories. It's all about balance, isn't it?

Can I add any vegetables to this chicken spaghetti recipe?

Absolutely! This chicken spaghetti recipe is quite forgiving! Diced bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms sautéed before adding them to the sauce can add flavour and texture. You could also stir in some frozen peas or corn towards the end of cooking. If you're feeling fancy, try adding some roasted asparagus or broccoli for a bit of colour and crunch. It's a great way to sneak in some extra veggies!

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