I remember the first time I tasted white chicken spaghetti at a friend’s dinner party. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta created a comforting and indulgent dish that I couldn’t resist. Inspired by that experience, I set out to recreate the recipe in my own kitchen, adding my personal touches along the way.
What Is White Chicken Spaghetti?
White chicken spaghetti is a delightful pasta dish featuring spaghetti noodles tossed in a rich, creamy white sauce, combined with succulent pieces of chicken. Unlike traditional tomato-based spaghetti dishes, this recipe offers a luscious, cheese-infused sauce that provides a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients for White Chicken Spaghetti
To prepare this delicious dish, gather the following ingredients:
- Spaghetti: 12 ounces of your preferred brand.
- Cooked Chicken: 2 cups, shredded or diced.
- Butter: 2 tablespoons.
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced.
- All-Purpose Flour: 2 tablespoons.
- Chicken Broth: 1 ½ cups.
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup.
- Cream Cheese: 4 ounces, softened.
- Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, grated.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped, for garnish.
How to Make White Chicken Spaghetti
- Cook the Spaghetti: Boil the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Sprinkle in the flour, stirring continuously to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream, ensuring a smooth consistency.
- Add the softened cream cheese, stirring until fully melted and incorporated.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Chicken and Pasta:
- Add the cooked chicken to the sauce, allowing it to heat through.
- Toss in the cooked spaghetti, ensuring each strand is well coated with the creamy sauce.
- Serve:
- Transfer the pasta to serving plates.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect White Chicken Spaghetti
- Pasta Choice: While spaghetti is traditional, feel free to substitute with fettuccine or linguine based on your preference.
- Chicken Preparation: Rotisserie chicken works well for this recipe, offering convenience and flavor.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or white cheddar to customize the flavor profile.
- Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water or additional broth to reach the desired consistency.
Variations of White Chicken Spaghetti
- Mushroom Addition: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic for an earthy flavor enhancement.
- Spinach Inclusion: Stir in fresh spinach leaves towards the end of cooking for added nutrition and color.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to introduce some heat to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
White chicken spaghetti pairs wonderfully with:
- Garlic Bread: A side of warm garlic bread complements the creamy pasta perfectly.
- Green Salad: A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or asparagus make excellent side choices.
Storing and Reheating
- Storage: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to maintain the sauce’s creaminess.
Health Considerations
While indulgent, this dish can be modified for a lighter version:
- Reduced-Fat Dairy: Opt for low-fat cream cheese and milk instead of heavy cream.
- Whole Wheat Pasta: Choose whole wheat spaghetti to increase fiber content.
- Portion Control: Enjoy in moderation and pair with a large serving of vegetables.
My Personal Touch
To add a personal twist, I sometimes incorporate sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy contrast to the creamy sauce. This addition not only enhances the flavor but also adds a pop of color to the dish.
White chicken spaghetti is a comforting and versatile dish that’s sure to please a crowd. With its creamy sauce and tender chicken, it offers a delightful alternative to traditional pasta recipes. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this recipe is a surefire hit.