This Quick and Easy Chicken Spaghetti is about to become your new weeknight hero. Imagine perfectly cooked angel hair pasta tossed with tender chicken, melty cheese, juicy tomatoes with a kick of green chile, and a creamy sauce that hugs every strand—ready in just 25 minutes! Whether you’re looking to use up leftover chicken or simply craving something comforting, this recipe blends convenience and down-home flavor in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this dish so fabulous is how everyday ingredients combine for maximum flavor with minimal effort. Every component plays a vital role, whether it’s adding richness, a touch of spice, or that irresistible cheesy stretch.
- Angel hair pasta: The delicate texture of angel hair ensures each forkful is light and perfectly coated with the savory sauce.
- Cooked chicken breast: Using pre-cooked or leftover chicken makes this dish speedy, adding satisfying protein without an extra step.
- Condensed cream of chicken soup: This is your shortcut to a creamy, luscious sauce with zero fuss.
- Diced tomatoes with green chile peppers: Bright acidity and subtle heat from the chiles add excitement to every bite.
- Processed cheese, cubed: Melts beautifully to give the spaghetti its signature tangy-cheesy goodness.
- Sliced mushrooms (drained): Earthy, savory flavor that complements the creamy sauce wonderfully.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Don’t underestimate the final seasoning—these little guys tie everything together!
How to Make Quick and Easy Chicken Spaghetti
Step 1: Cook the Angel Hair Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of lightly salted water to a rolling boil. Add the angel hair pasta and give it an occasional stir so it cooks evenly and doesn’t clump. Since angel hair cooks quickly, check for doneness after about 4 to 5 minutes; you want it tender, yet still just a bit firm. Drain it well, then return it right back to the pot—you’ll finish everything together in just a sec.
Step 2: Add Remaining Ingredients
With the warm pasta still in the pot, toss in your cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, diced tomatoes with green chiles (juice included!), processed cheese cubes, and drained sliced mushrooms. Don’t forget a pinch of salt and pepper here. The heat from the noodles gives this step a head start, starting to soften the cheese immediately.
Step 3: Melt, Stir, and Combine
Set the pot over low heat and let everything gently mingle together. As the cheese melts, stir occasionally to help it blend into the sauce and coat the pasta thoroughly. You’ll see the cheese work its magic after about five minutes—the sauce turns creamy, the chicken warms through, and every ingredient combines in cheesy harmony.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust
Give the Quick and Easy Chicken Spaghetti a quick taste. Adjust the salt and pepper if needed—everyone’s palate is a little different, so make it perfect for you. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a pinch of crushed red pepper or a sprinkle of fresh herbs at this stage.
How to Serve Quick and Easy Chicken Spaghetti
Garnishes
Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or green onions over the top for a vibrant pop of color and freshness. If you love a little extra crunch, a dusting of crushed crackers or crispy fried onions adds a delightful finish.
Side Dishes
This creamy pasta is perfectly satisfying on its own, but pairing it with a green salad or some steamed broccoli brings in balance and freshness. Warm garlic bread or a rustic roll are wonderful for soaking up every bit of the silky sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this Quick and Easy Chicken Spaghetti in individual ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets for a fun twist. For a potluck or family buffet, transfer it to a big, colorful casserole dish—everyone will be tempted by the cheerful, cheesy layers!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Got leftovers? Store your cooled Quick and Easy Chicken Spaghetti in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for an outstanding lunch.
Freezing
To freeze, portion the spaghetti into freezer-safe containers and seal tightly. It keeps well for up to two months; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. This make-ahead trick is a lifesaver on busy nights!
Reheating
When you’re ready to reheat, add a splash of milk or chicken broth and warm the spaghetti gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. This keeps the sauce creamy and the noodles from drying out, so your leftovers taste fresh and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While angel hair is delightfully light for this dish, you can swap in spaghetti, linguine, or any other pasta you have on hand. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package directions.
Is there a substitute for processed cheese?
If you prefer, you can use shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack for a slightly different flavor and texture. The dish may be a little less smooth, but still incredibly delicious.
Can I make Quick and Easy Chicken Spaghetti ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it, cover, and refrigerate for up to a day. When ready to serve, gently reheat on the stove, adding a splash of milk as needed to keep it creamy.
What’s the best way to use leftover rotisserie chicken?
Leftover rotisserie chicken is perfect here! Simply chop or shred it and stir right into the pasta. The savory, seasoned chicken adds an extra layer of flavor.
Can I add vegetables or other mix-ins?
Definitely. Feel free to toss in peas, spinach, bell peppers, or even a little cooked bacon. The recipe is flexible, so you can make it your own every time.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a comforting, quick dinner that’s guaranteed to please a crowd or just your own hungry self, look no further than Quick and Easy Chicken Spaghetti. It’s creamy, zesty, and packed with goodness—give it a try, and it might just join your regular dinner rotation!
PrintQuick and Easy Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
This quick and easy chicken spaghetti recipe is a hearty and delicious dish that’s perfect for using up leftover chicken. It’s a comforting meal that the whole family will love.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-vegetarian
Ingredients
Angel Hair Pasta:
- 1 (12 ounce) package
Chopped Cooked Chicken Breast:
- 2 cups
Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup:
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can
Diced Tomatoes with Green Chile Peppers:
- 1 (10 ounce) can
Processed Cheese:
- ¾ (8 ounce) package, cubed
Sliced Mushrooms:
- ½ (4 ounce) jar, drained
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook angel hair pasta until tender yet firm, about 4-5 minutes. Drain and return to the pot.
- Combine Ingredients: Add chicken, cream of chicken soup, diced tomatoes, processed cheese, mushrooms, salt, and pepper to the pot.
- Heat Through: Cook and stir over low heat until the cheese is melted and the mixture is heated through, approximately 5 minutes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 376
- Sugar: Unknown
- Sodium: Unknown
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: Unknown
- Unsaturated Fat: Unknown
- Trans Fat: Unknown
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: Unknown
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: Unknown
