Easy Chicken Spaghetti Recipe: A Comfort Food Classic
This easy chicken spaghetti recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner. It's quick, simple, and tastes amazing! This recipe is easily customizable to your preferences, making it a versatile dish for any occasion. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 (24 ounce) jar of your favorite pasta sauce (marinara, creamy tomato, etc.)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Start by cooking your spaghetti according to package directions. Make sure to salt the water generously – this is key for flavorful pasta! Drain the pasta once it's al dente and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken and Vegetables
While the spaghetti is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Don't overcrowd the pan, you may need to cook the chicken in batches.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
Stir in your pasta sauce, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the chicken and sauce. Toss everything together to coat the pasta evenly. If desired, stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese until melted.
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if you like.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
- Add vegetables: Include other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrients and flavor. Add these with the onions.
- Creamy Chicken Spaghetti: Use a creamy tomato sauce or add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce for a richer, creamier dish.
- Make it a one-pot meal: You can cook the chicken and sauce in the same pot you use to cook the pasta, saving on dishes. Just make sure to add the chicken and sauce after the pasta is cooked and drained.
- Leftovers: This chicken spaghetti keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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This easy chicken spaghetti recipe is sure to become a family favorite! Enjoy!
