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Creamy Chicken Spaghetti

A quick and creamy chicken spaghetti recipe that is perfect for weeknight dinners, featuring tender chicken, rich sauce, and cheesy goodness.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Comfort Food, Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 12 oz spaghetti
  • 2 to 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped Rotisserie chicken recommended
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 to 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup milk or half and half
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar (or a cheddar blend) Freshly shredded is preferred
  • 1 tsp salt Plus more to taste
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • to taste optional toppings: chopped parsley, crushed red pepper, or sautéed mushrooms

Method
 

Making the Sauce
  1. Boil the spaghetti in salted water and cook it just until barely tender. Drain it and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet or pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until it softens. Add the garlic and stir for 30 seconds.
  3. Stir in the cream soup, broth, and milk. Let it warm up and turn smooth. Add salt, pepper, and paprika. Taste and adjust.
  4. Turn the heat down low and stir in about 1 1/2 cups of the cheese until melty and creamy.
Combining and Baking
  1. Add the chicken and drained spaghetti into the sauce. Toss until everything is coated.
  2. If you want it baked: pour into a greased 9 by 13 dish, top with the remaining cheese, then bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes until hot and bubbly.
  3. If you want it stovetop: keep it on low for a few minutes, stirring gently, until it is hot and the cheese is fully melted.

Notes

Use rotisserie chicken for quicker preparation. Do not skip the broth as it helps maintain a creamy consistency. Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded. Cover with foil while baking to prevent drying out.