Chicken Pasta (Chicken Spaghetti)

Did you know that chicken pasta is one of the most beloved and popular dishes across the United States? With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and flavorful pasta, it’s no wonder that this comfort food favorite has won the hearts of countless food enthusiasts. Whether you’re a fan of classic recipes or you enjoy experimenting with flavors, chicken pasta offers a versatile and satisfying dining experience. So, let’s dive deeper into what makes this dish so irresistible and learn how to make it yourself!

Ingredient List & Possible Substitutions

When making chicken pasta, it’s essential to have the right ingredients on hand. Here is a list of the key components that make up this delicious dish:

1. Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs as the main protein. If you prefer, you can substitute with cooked shredded chicken or even leftover rotisserie chicken for added convenience.
2. Aromatics: To enhance the flavor, the recipe includes onion and garlic. Feel free to adjust the quantities to suit your taste preferences and add an extra layer of aromatic goodness.
3. Butter & Flour: These ingredients work together to create a roux and thicken the creamy sauce. If you prefer a different option, you can substitute the butter with olive oil and use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
4. Chicken Broth: Opt for a good quality chicken broth to enhance the flavor of the dish. For vegetarian options, you can substitute with vegetable broth instead.
5. Seasoning: Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper are used to season the dish. Feel free to adjust the amounts based on your taste preferences and add a personal touch to the flavors.
6. Cheddar & Mozzarella Cheese: These two cheeses provide a savory and cheesy flavor to the chicken pasta. If you want to experiment with different flavors, you can use other types of cheese like Gouda or Parmesan.
7. Heavy Cream: This ingredient gives the sauce its creamy and rich consistency. If you prefer a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk instead.
8. Rotel: This brand of diced tomatoes with green chiles adds a tangy and slightly spicy kick to the dish. If you can’t find Rotel, you can use a can of regular diced tomatoes and add chopped green chiles separately.

These are the core ingredients for chicken pasta, but don’t be afraid to make substitutions and adjust the recipe according to your preferences. Now that we have covered the ingredient list, let’s move on to the step-by-step cooking instructions.

How To Make Chicken Pasta

Are you ready to learn how to make a delicious chicken pasta? Follow these step-by-step instructions and create a delightful meal for yourself and your loved ones. Let’s get started!

1. Cook the chicken: Start by cooking the chicken breasts in a skillet until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest before chopping it into smaller pieces.

2. Cook the pasta: While the chicken is cooking, boil a pot of water and cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

3. Prepare the sauce: In the same skillet used to cook the chicken, sauté onions and garlic in butter until translucent. Add flour to create a roux, then slowly pour in chicken broth, stirring to thicken the sauce. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

4. Add the cheeses and cream: Stir in shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, allowing them to melt into the sauce. Add heavy cream for added richness and creaminess.

5. Combine the ingredients: Chop the cooked chicken into small pieces and add it to the skillet along with drained diced tomatoes with green chiles. Mix in the cooked spaghetti until everything is well combined.

6. Baking: Transfer the chicken pasta mixture to a casserole dish and top with more shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Bake in a preheated oven until the dish is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden.

7. Serve and enjoy: Once the chicken pasta is cooked and bubbly, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil, if desired. Now, sit back and savor every bite of this delectable chicken pasta dish!

Serving Suggestions

Looking for ways to elevate your chicken pasta dish? Here are some delicious serving suggestions that will enhance the flavors and add variety to your meal:

Garlic bread: Serve the chicken pasta with a side of homemade garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal. The buttery and garlicky flavors of the bread complement the creamy chicken pasta.

Side salad: Pair the chicken pasta with a simple side salad dressed with vinaigrette or ranch dressing. The freshness of the salad will provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta dish.

Steamed vegetables: Steam a medley of vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and snap peas to serve alongside the chicken pasta. The vibrant colors and crisp textures of the vegetables will add a healthy element to the meal, balancing out the indulgent flavors of the pasta.

Crusty bread: Serve slices of crusty bread to mop up any remaining sauce from the chicken pasta. This is especially delicious when the bread is lightly toasted or warmed, creating a delightful combination of textures.

Wine pairing: Consider pairing the chicken pasta with a glass of white wine, such as a Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio. The acidity and flavors of the wine will complement the creamy and cheesy elements of the dish, elevating your dining experience.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of meat instead of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute the chicken with cooked shredded chicken or leftover rotisserie chicken.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for cheddar and mozzarella, you can use other types of cheese like Gouda or Parmesan for different flavor profiles.

How can I make a gluten-free version of this recipe?

To make a gluten-free version, substitute the butter with olive oil and use gluten-free flour instead.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make this recipe vegetarian-friendly.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! This recipe reheats well, making it a great option for meal prep. You can make a large batch and enjoy the leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week.

What wine pairs well with chicken pasta?

Consider pairing the chicken pasta with a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio. The acidity and flavors of the wine will complement the creamy and cheesy elements of the dish.