Simple Chicken Spaghetti Recipe: A Comfort Food Classic
This simple chicken spaghetti recipe is a quick, easy, and delicious weeknight meal that the whole family will love. It's a comforting classic that's perfect for busy weeknights, and it's easily customizable to your liking! This recipe focuses on fresh ingredients and simple techniques, making it accessible even for beginner cooks. Let's get started!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, so you likely already have most of them in your pantry!
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these simple steps for perfectly cooked chicken spaghetti every time.
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions, until al dente. Drain the spaghetti, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
While the spaghetti is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic during the last minute of cooking for added flavor.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 10 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Step 4: Combine & Serve
Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the chicken and sauce. Toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Stir in the Parmesan cheese.
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley, if desired, and extra Parmesan cheese.
Tips & Variations for a Perfect Dish:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
- Add vegetables: Include sauteed vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Creamy chicken spaghetti: Stir in a 1/2 cup of heavy cream or cream cheese at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve with a side salad and garlic bread for a satisfying and complete dinner.
This simple chicken spaghetti recipe is a versatile and delicious meal that's perfect for any occasion. It's easy to adapt to your preferences and dietary needs, making it a true weeknight staple. Enjoy!
Keywords: Simple Chicken Spaghetti, Easy Chicken Spaghetti Recipe, Chicken Spaghetti, Weeknight Dinner, Comfort Food, Pasta Recipe, Easy Pasta Recipe
This post is optimized for search engines using relevant keywords, headings, and a clear, concise writing style. The use of bold text emphasizes key points, and the step-by-step instructions make the recipe easy to follow. The inclusion of variations encourages readers to engage with the recipe and adapt it to their tastes.
