Are you looking for a tasty and easy-to-make dish that the whole family will love? This chicken spaghetti recipe is just what you need! It’s a delightful combination of spaghetti, chicken, and a rich sauce that brings everything together in a delicious way. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at the table. Let’s dive into the details!
Ingredients
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup bell peppers, chopped
– 1/2 cup onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 25 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately 450 calories, 20g of protein, 30g of carbohydrates, and 25g of fat. This nutritional information is based on an average serving size for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
- In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic over medium heat until softened.
- Add the chopped bell peppers and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook until they begin to soften.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add the shredded chicken to the skillet and mix well.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute heavy cream with a lighter alternative like half-and-half or a dairy-free cream. Additionally, shredded rotisserie chicken can be used for convenience.
Serving and Pairings
This chicken spaghetti pairs wonderfully with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months, although the texture may change slightly upon reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the spaghetti can lead to a mushy texture.
- Not seasoning the sauce enough can result in bland flavor.
- Using too much cream can make the dish overly rich.
- Forgetting to drain the pasta properly may make the dish watery.
- Using low-quality chicken can affect the overall taste.
Helpful Tips
- Always taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Cook the pasta al dente for the best texture.
- Try adding spinach or other vegetables for extra nutrition.
- Let leftovers sit for a bit before reheating to enhance flavors.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat spaghetti?
Yes, whole wheat spaghetti is a great option and adds extra fiber to the dish. Just cook it according to the package instructions for best results.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the sauce while cooking.
Is this dish gluten-free?
You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free spaghetti and ensuring all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta separately in advance. Combine and reheat when ready to serve.
What can I substitute for chicken?
Feel free to use shrimp, tofu, or even mushrooms if you’re looking for a vegetarian option.
Conclusion
This chicken spaghetti recipe is a versatile and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors and satisfying ingredients, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy your cooking adventure and savor every bite!
Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 2 cups cooked chicken shredded
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cup bell peppers chopped
- 1/2 cup onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
- In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic over medium heat until softened.
- Add the chopped bell peppers and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook until they begin to soften.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add the shredded chicken to the skillet and mix well.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.