Creamy Cheddar Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti in Creamy Sauce
When the craving for comfort food strikes, there’s nothing quite like a plate of creamy pasta to hit the spot, especially when it’s infused with rich cheese and tender chicken. This Creamy Cheddar Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti in Creamy Sauce is an absolute delight that comes together in no time, making it perfect for any night of the week. It’s a dish bursting with flavor, creaminess, and that cheesy goodness we all adore—ideal for family dinners or a cozy meal on a busy evening.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This recipe isn’t just your average pasta dish; it stands out for several reasons. First and foremost, the creamy sauce, enriched with both cheddar and Parmesan, elevates everyday chicken and spaghetti into something extraordinary. It’s quick to prepare, which makes it a winner for weeknight dinners when you want to enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
"This spaghetti dish is a family favorite! The creaminess and the flavors are just out of this world. It’s perfect for impressing guests or simply indulging in comfort food!" — Maria K.
How This Recipe Comes Together
Making Creamy Cheddar Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti in Creamy Sauce is a breeze. In just a few simple steps, you can create a restaurant-quality dish right in your kitchen. Here’s how the process breaks down:
- You’ll start by cooking your spaghetti until it’s perfectly al dente.
- Meanwhile, season and sear the chicken until it’s golden brown and juicy.
- Next, you’ll whip up a luxuriously creamy sauce that combines heavy cream, cream cheese, and two kinds of cheese for a flavor explosion.
- Finally, toss everything together, and voilà—your delicious meal is ready to serve!
What You’ll Need
To create this creamy masterpiece, make sure you gather the following ingredients:
- 1 1/4 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced into strips)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water (if needed)
- Fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)
- Extra Parmesan (for garnish)
- Melted butter (for drizzle)
Feel free to swap out the chicken for turkey or use gluten-free pasta to cater to your dietary needs.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s a simplified breakdown of the cooking process:
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Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until al dente. Don’t forget to reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining and setting the spaghetti aside.
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Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Season the chicken strips with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side until it’s golden brown and cooked through, then remove and set aside.
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Make the Creamy Cheddar Parmesan Sauce: Using the same skillet, sauté the minced garlic for 30 seconds. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, mixing to combine. Add the cream cheese and whisk until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Stir in the cheddar and Parmesan until fully melted. Add Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
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Combine Everything: Toss the cooked spaghetti into the sauce until well coated. Add the chicken back into the pan and stir to combine. If the sauce seems too thick, use a splash of the reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.
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Serve & Garnish: Plate the creamy chicken spaghetti and shower it with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil for a fresh finish. Drizzle a little melted butter on top for an irresistible touch.
What to Serve It With
This creamy chicken spaghetti pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or a side of garlic bread for that extra crunch. You might even serve it with roasted vegetables to add a nutritious element to your meal. Consider pairing it with a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay, to complement the richness of the dish.
Storage and Reheating Tips
To keep your leftover Creamy Cheddar Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll stay good for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently on the stove over low heat. If it’s too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen it up and regain that creamy texture.
Pro Chef Tips
- For extra depth of flavor, try marinating the chicken in a bit of Italian dressing before cooking.
- Adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the sauce can give the dish a nutritious boost while enhancing its flavor profile.
- If you love spice, increase the amount of crushed red pepper or add some diced jalapeños.
Creative Twists
Feel free to put your spin on this recipe:
- Swap out the chicken for shrimp for a seafood version.
- Use different kinds of cheese, like Gouda or mozzarella, for a unique flavor.
- For a healthier twist, replace heavy cream with half-and-half or a cauliflower puree.
Your Questions Answered
1. How long does it take to prepare this recipe?
The entire process takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick option for busy nights.
2. Can I freeze this spaghetti?
While it’s not ideal due to the cream-based sauce, you can freeze it. Just note that the texture of the sauce may change upon reheating.
3. What can I substitute for heavy cream?
Half-and-half or evaporated milk can work in a pinch, though they won’t yield the same richness. For a lighter option, try a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream.
This Creamy Cheddar Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti is a delightful way to satisfy your pasta cravings while bringing a splash of creamy goodness to your dinner table. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Creamy Cheddar Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti in Creamy Sauce
Ingredients
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Season chicken with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through, then remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, mixing to combine. Add cream cheese and whisk until smooth. Stir in cheddar and Parmesan until melted, then mix in Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes.
- Toss the cooked spaghetti into the sauce until well coated. Add chicken back to the pan and stir to combine. If the sauce seems too thick, use a splash of reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.
- Plate the creamy chicken spaghetti, garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley or basil, and drizzle with melted butter before serving.
