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This chicken spaghetti is a comforting go-to for busy weeknights when you want something creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor without spending hours in the kitchen. It combines tender pasta, savory chicken, and melty cheese all in one pot making dinner effortless and satisfying.
I first made this after finding some leftover cooked chicken and it instantly became a family favorite for easy weeknight meals
Ingredients
- Angel hair pasta: cooks quickly and has a delicate texture making it ideal for this creamy dish choose a good quality brand for best results
- Chopped cooked chicken breast: adds protein and keeps the dish hearty look for tender pieces or poach your own for freshness
- Condensed cream of chicken soup: gives the base a velvety richness opt for a brand with natural flavors and no artificial additives if possible
- Diced tomatoes with green chile peppers: bring subtle heat and brightness use fresh smelling cans without excessive liquid
- Processed cheese cubes: melt smoothly creating a luscious sauce pick a mild style like Velveeta for classic creamy flavor
- Sliced mushrooms: add an earthy note and texture make sure they are well drained to avoid watery pasta
Instructions
- Cook Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until tender yet still firm to the bite. Drain thoroughly and return pasta to the pot to keep warm.
- Combine Ingredients:
- To the pot with the cooked pasta, add the chopped cooked chicken, condensed cream of chicken soup, diced tomatoes with green chile peppers, processed cheese cubes, and sliced mushrooms. Add salt and pepper to taste. Stir gently so the ingredients begin to combine evenly.
- Heat Through:
- Place the pot over low heat and cook slowly. Stir frequently to avoid sticking. Continue until the cheese melts completely and the mixture is hot throughout which usually takes about 5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.
This recipe’s creamy cheese sauce is my favorite part it never fails to please and reminds me of cozy dinners at home when time was short but comfort was key.
Storage tips
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave adding a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess if it feels dry. Avoid overheating to keep the pasta from getting mushy.
Ingredient swaps
If you prefer fresh chicken cook and shred boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs before adding. For a different twist, swap the diced tomatoes with green chiles for plain diced tomatoes and add a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor. Use shredded cheese instead of processed cheese cubes but melt slowly over low heat to keep the sauce smooth.
Serving ideas
Serve this chicken spaghetti with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a fresh contrast. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or grated Parmesan on top for a bright finish. Garlic bread or soft dinner rolls round out the meal nicely.
This dish comes together quickly but offers comforting richness that makes every meal feel special.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → What type of pasta is best for this dish?
Angel hair pasta works best as its fine texture absorbs the creamy sauce without becoming heavy.
- → Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked?
Yes, but ensure it is fully cooked before combining with the other ingredients to maintain proper texture.
- → How do the diced tomatoes with green chiles affect the flavor?
They add a subtle tang and mild heat that brighten the richness of the cheese and cream base.
- → Is it possible to substitute mushrooms?
Yes, other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini can be used to add different textures and flavors.
- → What is the recommended cooking time for the pasta?
Cooking the angel hair pasta for 4-5 minutes yields a tender yet firm bite perfect for this dish.