Looking for a quick and delicious meal that satisfies the whole family? This savory chicken and spaghetti noodles recipe is a must-try! Combining tender chicken with perfectly cooked spaghetti, it’s a dish that’s full of flavor, easy to make, and ideal for a busy weeknight dinner.
Plus, it’s customizable, so you can tweak it to match your personal tastes.
Ingredients:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
12 oz spaghetti noodles
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion (finely chopped)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Spaghetti
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the spaghetti noodles and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the noodles, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water, and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
While the noodles are cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, add the chopped onions and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and soft. Then, add the cherry tomatoes and Italian seasoning. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften.
Next, pour in the chicken broth and stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the broth simmer for about 5 minutes until it slightly reduces.
Step 4: Add the Cream and Cheese
Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, allowing the sauce to thicken. You can also add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and stir to coat it in the creamy sauce. Finally, toss in the cooked spaghetti noodles, making sure everything is evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, add more pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for an extra burst of color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy!
Recipe Tips:
Add veggies: Feel free to toss in spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
Cheese lovers: Add more Parmesan or try mixing in mozzarella for a creamier texture.
Spice it up: If you like some heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper.
This chicken and spaghetti noodles recipe is a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknights. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta creates a comforting dish that can be on the table in under 30 minutes! Whether you’re serving it for family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite.
Variations of Chicken and Spaghetti Noodles Recipe
One of the best things about this chicken and spaghetti noodles recipe is its versatility. You can modify it to suit different tastes, dietary preferences, or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Here are a few creative variations to try:
Lemon Garlic Chicken Spaghetti
For a lighter and fresher version, skip the heavy cream and instead add a burst of citrus. After cooking the chicken, toss the spaghetti with olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh parsley for a zesty and vibrant flavor.
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Chicken
This is a traditional Italian pasta dish that combines garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes. For a protein boost, add the cooked chicken to the dish. The simplicity of the sauce highlights the flavors of the chicken and pasta. Finish with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh parsley.
Creamy Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti
If you’re a fan of rich and creamy pasta, turning this dish into an Alfredo-style meal is easy. Swap the broth with more cream and double the Parmesan to create a thicker, more indulgent sauce. Add broccoli or mushrooms for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Spaghetti Carbonara with Chicken
Chicken carbonara adds extra protein to the classic Italian recipe that usually includes eggs, cheese, and pancetta or bacon. Toss the hot spaghetti with cooked chicken, whisked eggs, Parmesan, and crispy bacon for a hearty and comforting meal.
Spaghetti Pesto with Chicken
For a burst of fresh herbs, toss the chicken and spaghetti with homemade or store-bought pesto. The vibrant green color of basil pesto and the earthy flavors of Parmesan and pine nuts create a delightful contrast to the tender chicken and pasta.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Quick and Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights.
Family-Friendly: This recipe appeals to kids and adults alike. You can also adjust the ingredients based on your family’s preferences.
Customizable: Whether you want to add veggies, make it spicy, or swap ingredients, this dish can easily adapt to different tastes and dietary needs.
Comforting: With its creamy sauce and hearty ingredients, this meal is pure comfort food. It’s perfect for cozy evenings or when you’re craving something filling and satisfying.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 450-500
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 55g
Fat: 15g
Fiber: 4g
The exact nutritional values will vary based on your ingredients and portion sizes, but this gives you a rough estimate. You can adjust the amount of cream or cheese to fit your dietary goals.
This chicken and spaghetti noodles recipe is incredibly flexible and delicious. Whether you’re in the mood for something creamy, zesty, or packed with veggies, there’s a variation for you. Its ease of preparation and customizable nature make it a fantastic go-to meal for any occasion. Try out the different versions, experiment with flavors, and find your favorite way to enjoy this versatile dish!