Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Spaghetti

Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Spaghetti is the perfect dish for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. This creamy pasta is rich in flavor, featuring tender chicken and a luscious cheese sauce that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Creamy: The combination of heavy cream, evaporated milk, and rich cheeses creates a smooth sauce that envelops every strand of spaghetti.
• Quick Preparation: With a cooking time of just 35 minutes, this recipe is perfect for those who need a tasty meal in a hurry.
• Versatile: You can easily customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables or using different proteins like turkey or beef.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the comforting flavors and cheesy goodness, making it a hit for all ages.
• One-Pot Wonder: Most of the cooking happens in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze after enjoying this delightful meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Spaghetti, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These will help streamline your cooking process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Perfect for boiling pasta evenly without sticking together.
• Large skillet: Allows you to cook the chicken and sauce simultaneously while keeping the flavors concentrated.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to chop ingredients efficiently.
• Knife: Ensures precise cutting of chicken and vegetables, leading to even cooking.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 12 oz spaghetti

For the Chicken

• 1½ lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into thick, uneven chunks
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Sauce

• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
• 7 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp dried parsley
• ½ tsp cracked black pepper
• ¾ tsp salt, divided
• 1½ cups heavy cream
• ½ cup evaporated milk
• 10 oz Velveeta cheese, cut into small cubes
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp milk
• 2 tbsp reserved pasta water

For Garnish

• Fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Spaghetti

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

1. Cook the spaghetti in a large pot of well-salted boiling water until just tender.
2. Scoop out a little pasta water before draining.
3. Set the spaghetti aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Place the chicken chunks in a bowl and season with half of the salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and dried parsley.
2. Toss well so the seasoning coats the chicken evenly.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat the olive oil with 4 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken pieces and let them cook without moving them initially to develop a deep golden crust.
3. Turn the pieces once browned and continue cooking until fully cooked through.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and keep warm.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

1. Reduce heat to medium; add remaining butter to the same skillet.
2. Once melted, stir in minced garlic; cook briefly until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream and evaporated milk; stir while scraping up any browned bits from the pan bottom.
4. Let sauce gently warm and simmer for a couple of minutes.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

1. Stir in cornstarch mixture; continue cooking until sauce thickens slightly.

Step 6: Add Cheese

1. Add Velveeta cubes gradually while stirring constantly until smooth.
2. Mix in Parmesan cheese; adjust seasoning with remaining salt as needed.

Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce

1. Add cooked spaghetti to skillet along with reserved pasta water splash.
2. Toss gently until pasta is fully coated with cheesy sauce.

Step 8: Serve

1. Serve spaghetti with garlic butter chicken on top or alongside for presentation.
2. Finish with fresh parsley garnish and serve hot.

Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4 | Calories: ~830 per serving

How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Spaghetti

Serving Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Spaghetti is all about presentation and pairing. This creamy dish can be enhanced with a few simple serving suggestions that elevate the dining experience and make it a hit at your table.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh parsley or basil can add a pop of color and freshness to your dish. Simply sprinkle chopped herbs on top before serving for an appealing look.

Pair with a Side Salad

• A light side salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing complements the richness of the spaghetti. The salad adds a refreshing crunch, balancing the meal.

Serve with Grated Cheese

• Offering additional grated Parmesan or a blend of Italian cheeses on the side allows guests to customize their servings. It enhances flavor and creaminess.

Present in Individual Bowls

• Serving the spaghetti in individual bowls creates an elegant dining experience. This makes it easy for guests to enjoy without worrying about sharing from a communal plate.

How to Perfect Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Spaghetti

To make sure your Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Spaghetti turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips for cooking and preparation.

• Use high-quality cheese: Opt for fresh Velveeta and Parmesan cheese for richer flavor and better melting qualities in your sauce.
• Don’t rush the chicken: Allowing the chicken to develop a golden crust before moving it ensures it remains juicy and flavorful.
• Reserve pasta water: Keeping some pasta water handy helps adjust the sauce’s consistency without losing flavor.
• Taste as you go: Adjust seasoning throughout cooking to achieve the perfect balance of flavors that suit your palate.
• Let it simmer: Allowing the sauce to simmer briefly melds all flavors together, resulting in a creamy and cohesive dish.
• Serve immediately: For optimal texture, serve your dish right after combining everything while it’s still hot and fresh.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Spaghetti

Complementing your Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Spaghetti with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great ideas:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up extra cheesy sauce. Toast slices of bread with garlic butter for an easy yet delicious addition.
2. Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or asparagus adds color and nutrition, making your meal more balanced.
3. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad brings crunch and zest, complementing the creaminess of the spaghetti beautifully.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These add earthy flavors when roasted with balsamic vinegar, providing a delightful contrast to the rich pasta dish.
5. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil on skewers offer a light, fresh option that’s easy to prepare and serve.
6. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, artichokes, and marinated vegetables can provide variety on your table, enhancing your meal’s appeal.
7. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn provides a delightful sweetness that pairs well with savory dishes like this spaghetti recipe.
8. Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): For those looking to cut carbs or add more veggies, zoodles are an excellent alternative that works well alongside cheesy pasta dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Spaghetti experience. Here are some to keep in mind:

• Overcooking the spaghetti: Cooking pasta too long can make it mushy. Follow package instructions and aim for al dente for the best texture.
• Not seasoning the chicken: Failing to season your chicken can lead to blandness. Make sure to coat the chicken evenly with spices before cooking.
• Skipping the reserved pasta water: Not using reserved pasta water may result in a dry dish. This starchy water helps bind the sauce to the spaghetti, enhancing creaminess.
• Using low-quality cheese: Substituting with poor-quality cheese can affect flavor and texture. Opt for fresh Velveeta and Parmesan for a creamy, rich sauce.
• Neglecting to scrape the skillet: Forgetting to scrape up browned bits can result in missing flavors. Make sure to stir well while adding liquids to capture all those delicious bits.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing it.

Freezing Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Spaghetti

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Label containers with dates for easy tracking.

Reheating Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Spaghetti

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer serving portions into a microwave-safe bowl and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of milk or pasta water into a skillet over low heat. Stir gently until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Spaghetti?

Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Spaghetti is a creamy pasta dish featuring tender chicken chunks, garlic butter sauce, and gooey cheese that creates a comforting meal.

How can I customize my Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Spaghetti?

You can customize this dish by adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or by swapping chicken for turkey or beef according to your preference.

Can I make Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Spaghetti ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.

What type of cheese works best for this recipe?

Velveeta cheese provides a smooth texture, while freshly grated Parmesan adds a delightful savory flavor. Both are essential for a rich cheesy sauce.

Is Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Spaghetti suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This recipe is great for meal prep as it stores well in both refrigerator and freezer, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Spaghetti is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, this creamy pasta dish delivers comfort and satisfaction. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins!