This Easy One Pot Chicken Spaghetti is perfect for busy days! It combines tender chicken, spaghetti, and a tasty sauce all cooked together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
You won’t believe how simple it is! Just toss everything in, let it simmer, and soon you’ll have a hearty meal that everyone will love. I often sneak in extra veggies—shhh, don’t tell the kids! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you could also use turkey. For a vegetarian twist, try adding chickpeas or tofu instead!
Bell Peppers: The colorful bell peppers add flavor and nutrition. If you don’t have any on hand, feel free to skip them or substitute with zucchini or spinach for some greens.
Cheese: While I like cheddar for its sharp flavor, you could use Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder taste. Vegan cheese works well if you want a dairy-free option.
Pasta: Spaghetti is classic here, but any similar pasta works! I like using penne or fusilli for a bit of fun texture. Make sure to adjust cooking time as needed.
How Do I Prevent the Spaghetti From Getting Sticky?
One common issue with one pot pasta dishes is sticky spaghetti. Here’s how to avoid that:
- Stir the pasta occasionally while it cooks. This keeps it separated and helps absorb the liquid evenly.
- Make sure there’s enough liquid in the pot; the spaghetti should be submerged. If it’s looking dry, add a splash more broth or water.
- Break the spaghetti in half before adding it to the pot. This helps it fit better and cook evenly.
Easy One Pot Chicken Spaghetti
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced (optional)
- 1 green bell pepper, diced (optional)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder or smoked paprika (optional)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with juice
- 8 oz spaghetti (broken in halves)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus more for topping)
- 1/2 cup sour cream or cream cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes of prep time and 20-25 minutes of cooking time. So in just about 30 minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready for the whole family!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
In a large, deep skillet or pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces. Season them with salt, pepper, and chili powder (if you’re using it). Cook the chicken until it’s browned on all sides but still slightly pink in the center, about 4-5 minutes. This will add great flavor!
2. Cook the Vegetables:
Next, add the diced onion, minced garlic, and the optional bell peppers to the pot. Sauté everything together until the onions become translucent and the peppers soften, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Stir frequently to cook evenly.
3. Add the Base Ingredients:
Now, it’s time to pour in the chicken broth and the can of diced tomatoes with juice. Give it a good stir to combine all the ingredients, and make sure to scrape any browned bits off the bottom of the pot to add extra flavor to your dish!
4. Cook the Spaghetti:
Take the broken spaghetti and add it to the pot, pushing it down a little so it’s submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot with a lid and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to keep the pasta from sticking and ensure it cooks evenly. You want the spaghetti to be tender and most of the liquid absorbed.
5. Make it Creamy:
Once your spaghetti is cooked to perfection, reduce the heat to low. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and either sour cream or cream cheese. Stir well until everything is melted and creamy. Taste and add more salt and pepper if needed!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, remove the pot from the heat. If you like, garnish your dish with fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and flavor. Serve hot with an extra sprinkle of cheese on top if you desire!
Enjoy your comforting, creamy, and easy one pot chicken spaghetti!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can! If using frozen chicken, make sure to thaw it completely before cutting it into pieces. Thaw the chicken overnight in the fridge or by placing it in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for a quicker option.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, simply replace the chicken with chickpeas or diced tofu. You can also add more vegetables, such as zucchini or mushrooms, to enhance the flavor and texture!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stove over low heat, or use the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through.
What Can I Serve with One Pot Chicken Spaghetti?
This dish is delicious on its own, but if you’d like to serve it with a side, consider a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables to complete your meal!
