Looking for a tasty meal that’s both flavorful and simple? You’re in the right place! In this guide, I’ll show you how to make delicious Chicken Spaghetti in easy steps. Packed with tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and spices, this dish is sure to please your family. Plus, I’ll share tips, variations, and storage info to make it even better. Let’s dive into this comforting recipe and get cooking!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– Chicken and Spaghetti Components
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
– 8 ounces spaghetti
Chicken adds protein and flavor. Spaghetti serves as the perfect base. Choose high-quality chicken for the best taste.
– Vegetables in the Dish
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
These vegetables add color and nutrients. Onions and garlic enhance the taste. Fresh bell peppers and zucchini bring a nice crunch.
– Seasonings and Toppings
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon oregano
– ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Seasonings tie the dish together. Olive oil helps with cooking and flavor. Fresh basil and Parmesan add a rich finish. This blend makes chicken spaghetti a delight.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Spaghetti
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it boils, add 8 ounces of spaghetti. Cook it based on the package instructions until it is al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. After it’s cooked, drain the spaghetti and set it aside. Make sure to save 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later.
Searing the Chicken
Next, take a large skillet and heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 2 cubed chicken breasts to the skillet. Sprinkle salt and pepper on the chicken for flavor. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken turns golden brown and is cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Sautéing the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add a diced medium onion. Cook it for 2-3 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, add 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 sliced red bell pepper, and 1 sliced zucchini. Sauté the mix for another 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
Combining Ingredients
Now, it’s time to bring everything together. Stir in a can of diced tomatoes (14 ounces, undrained) and 1 cup of chicken broth. Add 1 teaspoon of dried basil, 1 teaspoon of oregano, and ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes for some heat. Let this mixture simmer for about 5-7 minutes. This allows all the flavors to blend nicely.
Finishing Touches
Once the sauce is ready, return the chicken to the skillet. Then, gently fold in the prepared spaghetti. If the mixture seems dry, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you achieve the right sauce consistency. Stir everything together until it is well mixed and heated through. Serve the chicken spaghetti in bowls, topped with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your meal!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips for Perfect Chicken
To make your chicken tender, start with fresh chicken breasts. Cut them into even cubes. This helps them cook evenly. Season the chicken well with salt and pepper. Sear it in hot olive oil until golden brown. This adds a nice flavor. Cook it just until it is no longer pink. Overcooking can make it dry.
Spaghetti Cooking Tips
Cook your spaghetti in boiling salted water. This helps to flavor the pasta. Follow the package instructions for timing. Aim for al dente, which means firm to the bite. Reserve some pasta water before draining. This starchy water helps to create a creamy sauce later.
Flavor Enhancements
You can really boost the flavor of your chicken spaghetti. Add minced garlic early when sautéing the vegetables. This gives a nice aroma. Fresh herbs like basil enhance the taste. You can use dried herbs too, but fresh makes it pop. For a bit of heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes. Adjust them to match your taste. Lastly, don’t forget to top with grated Parmesan cheese. It adds creaminess and depth.
