Jump to Recipe Print Recipe“Just imagine standing in your kitchen, the comforting aroma of melting cheese and savory chicken wafting through the air as you prepare a meal that feels like a warm hug. My Creamy One-Pot Chicken Spaghetti is exactly that—a deliciously simple dish that transforms leftover rotisserie chicken into a family favorite without the fuss. This easy recipe not only cuts down on prep time, making it a perfect weeknight savior, but it also yields an abundance of creamy goodness that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’ve had a long day or just want to treat yourself, this one-pot wonder ticks all the boxes. Curious about how to whip up this comfort food classic in no time?” Why is this recipe a must-try? Simplicity at its finest: With just one pot needed, you cut down on dishes while preparing a delightful meal. Utilizes leftovers: Make the most of leftover rotisserie chicken, turning it into a creamy, dreamy pasta dish. Creamy, cheesy goodness: The combination of cheddar and mozzarella creates a rich, satisfying sauce that everyone will adore. Quick weeknight solution: This recipe is perfect for busy evenings, with minimal prep and cook time. Versatile flavors: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or cheeses to make it your own—try it with a blend of Italian cheeses for a fantastic twist! Pair it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad to complete your meal, adding to its crowd-pleasing appeal! One-Pot Chicken Spaghetti Ingredients For the Pasta • Spaghetti – The key base for this dish; you can swap any pasta shape you have on hand, making it adaptable to your pantry. For the Sauce • Unsalted Butter – This rich ingredient adds depth and flavor; feel free to replace it with olive oil for a lightened version. • Chopped Onion – Offers aromatic depth; shallots can be a milder substitute for a subtle flavor. • Minced Garlic – Enhances overall taste; use garlic powder as a quick fix—1/4 teaspoon substitutes one clove. • All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the creamy sauce; for gluten-free options, use gluten-free flour without compromising taste. • Low-Sodium Chicken Broth – Brings moisture and flavor; vegetable broth is a great alternative for vegetarians. • Dried Parsley, Oregano, Basil – These herbs create an authentic Italian flavor; fresh herbs are even better—just triple their quantity! • Red Pepper Flakes – For a hint of heat; if you prefer a milder dish, just omit them or replace with black pepper. • Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings; adjust to taste according to the saltiness of your broth. For the Cheesy Goodness • Cheddar Cheese – Adds creamy flavor as the main cheese; try Monterey Jack for a different take. • Mozzarella Cheese – Provides that beloved stretchy texture; switch it out for provolone for a stronger flavor. • Half and Half – Infuses the sauce with creaminess; use heavy cream for a richer sauce or milk for a lighter option. For the Remaining Ingredients • Diced Tomatoes with Green Chiles – These offer tang and moisture; if you’re sensitive to spice, regular diced tomatoes work just fine! • Shredded Leftover Rotisserie Chicken – The star protein of this One-Pot Chicken Spaghetti; any cooked chicken or turkey can work as a substitute. Embrace the joy of home cooking with this delightful collection of ingredients! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy One-Pot Chicken Spaghetti Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water over high heat. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, typically about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the spaghetti and set it aside, making sure it retains its shape as it will be folded into the creamy sauce later. Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic While the spaghetti is cooking, take a large skillet and melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Once melted, add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing them until the onion becomes translucent, which should take about 2 minutes. This mixture will form the aromatic base for your Creamy One-Pot Chicken Spaghetti. Step 3: Make the Roux Sprinkle in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour over the sautéed onion and garlic, whisking continuously. Cook the flour for 2-3 minutes until it becomes golden and slightly nutty in aroma. This roux will help thicken the sauce, ensuring a creamy texture for your pasta dish. Step 4: Add Chicken Broth and Seasonings Gradually pour in 3 cups of low-sodium chicken broth while whisking until the mixture is smooth. Increase the heat slightly and allow it to simmer for about 3 minutes or until it thickens. Season the sauce generously with salt, pepper, dried parsley, oregano, basil, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice. Step 5: Incorporate the Cheeses Lower the heat to medium and add in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir until the cheeses melt and integrate smoothly into the sauce, creating a rich and creamy base for your One-Pot Chicken Spaghetti. Step 6: Combine All Ingredients Carefully fold in the drained spaghetti, 1 cup of half and half, 2 cups of shredded leftover rotisserie chicken, and a can of diced tomatoes with green chiles. Mix everything together until the pasta is well-coated in the creamy sauce, ensuring each strand is enveloped in cheesy goodness. Step 7: Transfer to Baking Dish Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish and pour the creamy chicken spaghetti mixture into it, spreading it evenly. Don’t forget to top it off with the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese, allowing them to melt beautifully during baking. Step 8: Bake Until Bubbly Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it; your Creamy One-Pot Chicken Spaghetti is ready when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top. This baking step adds a lovely texture that enhances the dish’s overall appeal. What to Serve with Creamy One-Pot Chicken Spaghetti Imagine the warmth of your kitchen, where the aroma of bubbling cheeses and savory chicken mingles with delightful side dishes that make this meal even more comforting. Garlic Bread: Perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce; its crunchy texture contrasts beautifully with the softness of the pasta. Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp, vibrant salad balances the richness of the spaghetti, adding a refreshing element that helps cut through the heaviness. Steamed Broccoli: This bright green veggie not only provides nutrition but also enhances the dish with its slight crunch and visual appeal. Roasted Vegetables: Sweet caramelized flavors of seasonal veggies offer a hearty complement and add some earthy richness to every bite. Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and tangy parmesan add another layer of flavor, making each forkful of spaghetti more exciting. Sliced Baguette with Hummus: A fun twist that introduces a different flavor profile; the creamy hummus is perfect for those who want a lighter dipper. Red Wine: A glass of medium-bodied red wine enriches the meal, bringing out the flavors and providing a lovely accompaniment to the creamy sauce. Pairing your Creamy One-Pot Chicken Spaghetti with these delightful sides will elevate your dining experience, ensuring that every meal feels like a warm and cozy gathering. Make Ahead Options These Creamy One-Pot Chicken Spaghetti are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the entire pasta mixture and refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Simply follow the recipe instructions until the mixing stage; make sure to let it cool completely before covering to maintain quality and avoid excess moisture. When you’re ready to serve, transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, top with cheese, and bake directly from the refrigerator for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This way, you’ll enjoy a comforting, homemade meal without the last-minute stress! How to Store and Freeze One-Pot Chicken Spaghetti Fridge: Store any leftover One-Pot Chicken Spaghetti in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to retain moisture. Freezer: To freeze, portion the spaghetti into freezer-safe containers, and it can be kept for up to 3 months. Be sure to leave some space at the top for expansion. Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or milk for a creamy consistency. Make-Ahead: Prepare the pasta mixture ahead of time, store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking, and have a homemade dinner ready to pop in the oven! One-Pot Chicken Spaghetti Variations Feel free to explore these fun twists and substitutions to make the One-Pot Chicken Spaghetti even more delightful and personalized! Grilled Chicken: Swap out the rotisserie chicken for grilled chicken breast that adds a smoky flavor. This simple change can elevate your dish, adding a layer of deliciousness that is truly irresistible. Vegetable Boost: Incorporate fresh spinach or bell peppers for a nutrition kick. Adding veggies not only brightens the dish but also increases its health benefits, making it more colorful and nutritious. Spicy Kick: Increase the heat by adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. If you’re feeling bold, this fiery twist will excite your taste buds and make dinner a little more adventurous! Cheese Lovers’ Delight: Experiment with a blend of Italian cheeses like Fontina or Gorgonzola for a gourmet touch. Mixing cheeses creates a harmonious rich flavor that will leave your family craving more. Gluten-Free Option: Swap the spaghetti for gluten-free pasta. With the same creamy sauce, everyone can enjoy this delicious dish without worrying about gluten. Creamy Vegan Version: For a plant-based alternative, replace the chicken and dairy with chickpeas and coconut milk. This creative switch will make it vegan while keeping that creamy comfort intact. Pasta Shape Variations: Use penne or fusilli instead of spaghetti to change up the texture and presentation. Different shapes provide a new eating experience that can surprise your family. Unusual Add-ins: Try folding in some sun-dried tomatoes or artichoke hearts for an added burst of flavor. These unique ingredients can take your pasta from mundane to extraordinary, transforming your dish into a gourmet experience. And if you’re looking for more comforting recipes, you might enjoy the Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas or the delightful Huli Huli Chicken. Each variation offers a unique taste that’s just waiting for you to discover! Expert Tips for One-Pot Chicken Spaghetti Perfect Pasta: Ensure spaghetti is cooked al dente; it will continue to soften while baking, avoiding mushy pasta. Thickening Magic: Let the roux cook a bit longer for perfect thickness; this creates a decadent creamy sauce. Cheesy Balance: Incorporate cheeses gradually—too much added at once can make the sauce gritty instead of smooth. Bake Time: Watch closely in the oven; baking just until the cheese is bubbly and golden guarantees the best texture. Leftover Upgrades: Don’t hesitate to mix in any veggies you have on hand; adding spinach or bell peppers boosts nutrition without overwhelming the One-Pot Chicken Spaghetti. Creamy One-Pot Chicken Spaghetti Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right spaghetti for my One-Pot Chicken Spaghetti? Absolutely! Use any pasta shape you have on hand. Spaghetti is traditional, but penne or fusilli work great too. Just remember to check the cooking time, as different shapes may require slight adjustments. What is the best way to store leftover One-Pot Chicken Spaghetti? For optimal freshness, store your leftover One-Pot Chicken Spaghetti in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Allow the pasta to cool completely before sealing to keep it from becoming soggy. Can I freeze One-Pot Chicken Spaghetti? Yes, you can! Portion the cooled spaghetti into freezer-safe containers, leaving a bit of space at the top for expansion. It will keep well for up to 3 months. To use, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. My spaghetti turned mushy while baking. What happened? This can happen if the spaghetti is overcooked before mixing it into the sauce. To avoid this, always cook your pasta just until al dente, as it will continue to soften while baking in the sauce. Is this recipe suitable for people with food allergies? If allergies are a concern, please be cautious! This recipe contains gluten (from flour and pasta), dairy, and can contain allergens depending on the specific chicken broth and cheese used. I recommend seeking gluten-free pasta and dairy alternatives, like cashew cheese or almond milk, for a safe and delicious meal. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Very much so! You can prepare the pasta mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply bake until bubbly and golden! Creamy One-Pot Chicken Spaghetti: Quick and Comforting Delight This Creamy One-Pot Chicken Spaghetti is a deliciously simple dish that turns leftover rotisserie chicken into a family favorite. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 40 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 550 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta8 oz Spaghetti can swap for any pasta shapeFor the Sauce2 tbsp Unsalted Butter can replace with olive oil for a lighter version1 cup Chopped Onion or shallots for a milder flavor2 cloves Minced Garlic 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder can substitute for one clove1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour use gluten-free flour for gluten-free options3 cups Low-Sodium Chicken Broth vegetable broth is a great alternative for vegetarians1 tsp Dried Parsley use fresh herbs for better flavor1 tsp Oregano use fresh herbs for better flavor1 tsp Basil use fresh herbs for better flavor1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes omit for a milder dishto taste Salt adjust according to the saltiness of your brothto taste Pepper adjust according to preferenceFor the Cheesy Goodness1/2 cup Cheddar Cheese can use Monterey Jack instead1/2 cup Mozzarella Cheese can use provolone for stronger flavor1 cup Half and Half heavy cream can be used for a richer sauceFor the Remaining Ingredients1 can Diced Tomatoes with Green Chiles regular diced tomatoes can be used for less heat2 cups Shredded Leftover Rotisserie Chicken any cooked chicken or turkey works as a substitute Equipment large potSkilletWhiskcasserole dish Method Step-by-Step InstructionsBegin by boiling a large pot of salted water over high heat. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, typically about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the spaghetti and set it aside.Melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent, about 2 minutes.Sprinkle in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour over the sautéed onion and garlic, whisking continuously. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the flour is golden.Gradually pour in 3 cups of low-sodium chicken broth while whisking until smooth. Allow it to simmer for about 3 minutes or until it thickens, then season with salt, pepper, dried parsley, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes.Lower the heat to medium, add 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, stirring until melted and integrated.Carefully fold in the drained spaghetti, 1 cup of half and half, 2 cups of shredded leftover rotisserie chicken, and the can of diced tomatoes with green chiles. Mix until well-coated in sauce.Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish and pour the creamy mixture into it, spreading evenly. Top with remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese.Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 65gProtein: 30gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 750mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 700IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 400mgIron: 3mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Freeze portions for up to 3 months and reheat with added broth or milk for creaminess. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
