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This hearty chicken spaghetti has saved me countless weeknight dinners when I need something comforting on the table quickly. The creamy cheese sauce, tender chicken, and kick from the diced tomatoes with green chiles create a family-friendly meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
My family first discovered this recipe during a particularly busy sports season when we needed quick meals between practices. It quickly became our Tuesday night tradition, with everyone gathering around the table no matter how hectic the day had been.
Ingredients
- Angel hair pasta: Quick cooking pasta that creates a delicate base for the creamy sauce
- Cooked chicken breast: Adds protein and substance; use rotisserie chicken for extra convenience
- Condensed cream of chicken soup: Creates the creamy base without fussing with a roux
- Diced tomatoes with green chile peppers: Adds brightness and a gentle kick; look for Rotel brand for best flavor
- Processed cheese cubes: Melts perfectly into the sauce for ultimate creaminess; Velveeta works beautifully here
- Sliced mushrooms: Adds earthy flavor and extra texture; fresh mushrooms work well too if you have time to sauté them
- Salt and pepper: Allows you to adjust seasoning to your preference
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Boil the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a rolling boil before adding the angel hair pasta. Cook for just 4 to 5 minutes until al dente, firm to the bite but cooked through. Angel hair cooks much faster than regular spaghetti, so watch it carefully to prevent overcooking. Drain thoroughly but do not rinse as the starch helps the sauce adhere better.
- Create the Creamy Base:
- Return the drained pasta to the warm pot and immediately add all remaining ingredients while the pot is still hot. The residual heat begins melting the cheese as you add the chicken, soup, tomatoes with chiles, cheese cubes, and mushrooms. This is where the magic starts to happen as everything comes together.
- Melt and Marry the Flavors:
- Set the heat to low and gently stir the mixture continuously for about 5 minutes. Use a wooden spoon to ensure the cheese melts completely without scorching on the bottom. The sauce will thicken slightly as it heats through, coating each strand of pasta beautifully. Taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving.
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The processed cheese is truly the secret weapon in this recipe. While I typically cook with traditional cheeses, nothing melts quite as smoothly as these cubes do, creating that silky texture that makes this dish so craveable. My grandmother actually used to make a version of this back in the 1960s when processed cheese first became popular, so there's a lovely nostalgia factor too.
Make It Your Own
This chicken spaghetti recipe welcomes customization based on what you have on hand. Try adding sautéed bell peppers, onions, or even broccoli florets for extra vegetables. If you prefer a spicier dish, add a dash of hot sauce or use the hot variety of diced tomatoes with chiles. For a more gourmet version, substitute the processed cheese with a combination of cream cheese and sharp cheddar.
Storage and Reheating
This dish actually improves overnight as the flavors meld together in the refrigerator. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to revive the creamy sauce which tends to thicken when chilled. For best results, reheat gently on the stovetop rather than the microwave to maintain the smooth texture of the sauce.
Make Ahead Instructions
Chicken spaghetti is perfect for meal prep and can be fully assembled up to 2 days before serving. After combining all ingredients, transfer to a baking dish, cover with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake covered at 350°F for about 25 minutes until bubbly. For a golden top, sprinkle with additional cheese and broil for the final 2 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use spaghetti, fettuccine, or any long pasta of your choice for this dish.
- → Is there a substitute for processed cheese?
Yes, you can use shredded cheddar or a cheese blend for a similar creamy texture and flavor.
- → Can I make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! Add more diced chile peppers or season with red chili flakes to increase the spice level.
- → What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
You can substitute cream of mushroom, cream of celery, or make a homemade white sauce if preferred.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover chicken spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.
- → Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead and reheat it just before serving. Add a splash of milk or broth if needed to restore the creamy texture.