A nostalgic classic for many, cheesy chicken spaghetti is the staple weeknight dinner you can rely on. If you didn’t grow up with this comfort food, allow us to introduce you to your new favorite easy weeknight dinner. Chicken, spaghetti, and veggies combine with a creamy, cheesy sauce for a baked and bubbling casserole that’s just as perfect for busy weeknights as it is for parties. The best part? The leftovers almost taste even better.😉
Keep reading on for all of our top tips on making and serving this family favorite:
What is chicken spaghetti?
If you didn’t grow up with chicken spaghetti, you can think of it as being pretty similar to mac ‘n’ cheese, but amped up with chicken and spaghetti (duh). This casserole combines chicken breasts, red bell peppers, onion, chicken broth, and a creamy, cheesy sauce for a baked casserole that is perfectly adaptable. Swap out the chicken breasts for chicken thighs or rotisserie, add in even more veggies, or use a slightly thicker noodle shape. Like most of our casseroles, you can really play around here.
Ingredients
- 1 lb.spaghetti
- 1 Tbsp.extra-virgin olive oil
- 1yellow onion, chopped
- 1red bell pepper, seeds and ribs removed, chopped
- 1 lb.boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1″ pieces
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp.chili powder
- 3 Tbsp.unsalted butter
- 3 Tbsp.all-purpose flour
- 2 c.whole milk
- 1 c.low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 1/2 c.shredded cheddar, divided
- Chopped fresh parsley, for serving
Directions
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- Step 1Preheat oven to 350°. In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook spaghetti, stirring occasionally, until al dente according to package instructions, about 7 minutes.
- Step 2Meanwhile, in another large pot over medium heat, heat oil. Add onion and bell pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 7 minutes. Transfer to a plate.
- Step 3Season chicken all over with salt, pepper, and chili powder. In same pot over medium-high heat, cook chicken, stirring occasionally, until golden brown, about 5 minutes. Transfer to another plate.
- Step 4In same pot over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook, whisking constantly, until fragrant and combined, about 1 minute. Add milk and broth and cook, stirring occasionally, until thickened, about 5 minutes.
- Step 5Stir in spaghetti, vegetables, chicken, and 1 1/2 cups cheddar. Transfer to a 13″ x 9″ baking dish. Top with remaining 1 cup cheese.
- Step 6Bake chicken spaghetti until bubbly, about 45 minutes. Top with parsley.