This Creamy Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti is a meal that hugs you back! With tender chicken, creamy Velveeta cheese, and pasta, it’s a comforting bowl of happiness.
Making this dish feels like a party in the kitchen! I love how quick it comes together—just mix, cook, and enjoy. It’s perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Velveeta Cheese: This is the star for creaminess! If you prefer a more natural option, try a block of cream cheese mixed with some extra cheddar. It won’t be quite the same, but it will still be tasty!
Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is my go-to. It saves time and adds great flavor. You can use leftover cooked chicken, or even turkey works well, too!
Spaghetti: Classic spaghetti is perfect here, but you can swap it with whole wheat spaghetti or gluten-free pasta if that fits your needs better.
Onion and Garlic: Fresh adds a lovely aroma, but if you’re in a pinch, you can use onion powder and garlic powder for a quick flavor boost.
How to Make Sure Your Cheese Sauce is Perfectly Creamy?
Getting a smooth and creamy cheese sauce requires some attention while cooking. Here’s how to nail it:
- Heat your skillet over medium heat and melt the butter before adding garlic and onion. This helps develop flavor.
- Add chicken broth and milk gradually, stirring often. This keeps things well-mixed and prevents clumps.
- When adding cheese, let it melt completely, stirring frequently to ensure a smooth consistency.
- If the sauce seems too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash more milk to loosen it up!
With these steps, you’ll have a luscious cheese sauce that clings perfectly to your spaghetti! Enjoy your creamy creation!
How to Make Creamy Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti with Velveeta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 8 ounces spaghetti pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
For the Cheesy Sauce:
- 1 cup Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious Creamy Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti takes about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the pasta and preparing the ingredients, then around 20 minutes making the cheesy sauce and combining everything. It’s a quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Spaghetti:
Start by boiling a pot of water. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the butter and allow it to melt. Next, toss in the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté them together for about 3-4 minutes until they are tender and fragrant. This step builds a great flavor base!
3. Create the Cheesy Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and milk, stirring everything together. Then, add the cubed Velveeta cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and softened cream cheese to the skillet. Keep stirring frequently until all the cheeses are melted and you have a smooth and creamy sauce.
4. Add the Chicken and Season:
Now it’s time to stir in the shredded chicken along with the paprika, thyme (if using), and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until the chicken is warmed through and coated in that luscious cheese sauce.
5. Combine with Spaghetti:
Finally, add the drained spaghetti to the skillet. Gently toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated with the cheesy goodness. Make sure every strand gets some of that creamy sauce!
6. Serve and Garnish:
Once everything is combined, serve the pasta hot. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a lovely touch of color and a bit of freshness. Enjoy your delicious meal!
With its comforting vibe and cheesy goodness, this Creamy Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti is sure to be a hit at any table!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as penne, rotini, or even gluten-free pasta. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through. You may want to add a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if it thickens.
Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
Yes, you can! Consider using whole grain pasta and reducing the amount of cheese or using low-fat cheese options. You can also add vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers for extra nutrients and flavor!
Is There a Substitute for Velveeta Cheese?
If you prefer not to use Velveeta, you can make a cheese sauce with a combination of cream cheese and shredded cheddar, or use a blend of your favorite melting cheeses. Just remember that the texture and flavor may vary slightly!
