This Easy One Pot Chicken Spaghetti is a lifesaver for busy days! You cook everything in one pot, saving you time on clean-up while still enjoying a comforting meal.
Your kitchen will smell amazing as the chicken, spaghetti, and tasty sauce come together. Plus, who can resist a dish that’s cheesy and delicious? I love how simple it is and how little mess it makes!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. If you want a quicker option, use shredded rotisserie chicken. It adds great flavor with less cooking time!
Spaghetti: Regular spaghetti works well, but you can switch it out for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if you prefer. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as it may vary.
Cheese: Cheddar cheese adds a nice sharp flavor. If you want to mix it up, try mozzarella for a milder taste or a Mexican blend for a different twist!
Sour Cream: This is optional for creaminess. If you’d like to keep it dairy-free, you can use cashew cream or a non-dairy yogurt instead.
What’s the Best Way to Cook the Spaghetti in One Pot?
Cooking spaghetti in the same pot as your other ingredients is straightforward, but it’s essential to follow these steps for the best results:
- Break the spaghetti in half to help it fit better and ensure even cooking.
- Ensure the pasta is submerged in the liquid for even cooking. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Keep an eye on the timing as different types of pasta can cook at different rates.
- If you want extra sauce, feel free to add a bit more chicken broth – remember, it will thicken a bit as it sits.
How to Make Easy One Pot Chicken Spaghetti
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 8 ounces spaghetti, broken in half
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and approximately 20-25 minutes of cooking time, making it a quick and convenient meal that you can prepare in under an hour. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Chicken:
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces into the pot. Season them with salt, pepper, paprika, and chili powder if decided to use. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside on a plate.
2. Cook the Aromatics:
In the same pot, throw in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant and the onion is translucent. This is where the magic begins to happen!
3. Add Liquids and Spaghetti:
Now it’s time to add the ingredients that bring everything together. Pour in the canned diced tomatoes (with all the juices) and the chicken broth. Stir everything to combine well. Then, break the spaghetti in half and add it to the pot, ensuring it’s mostly submerged in the liquid.
4. Cook the Spaghetti:
Raise the heat to bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Allow it to cook for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spaghetti is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
5. Stir in Cheese and Chicken:
Bring back the cooked chicken into the pot. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and the sour cream if you’re using it. Stir everything together until the cheese is melted and the dish is creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
6. Final Touches:
Remove the pot from heat and let it rest for a couple of minutes. This allows everything to thicken slightly. To serve, sprinkle the top with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color and flavors. Enjoy your delicious Easy One Pot Chicken Spaghetti!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional, you can use any short pasta (like penne or rotini) as well. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly based on the pasta you choose.
Can I Substitute the Chicken with Another Protein?
Yes! Feel free to use diced turkey, cooked shrimp, or even a plant-based protein like chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if it seems too thick.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the chicken and sauté the onions and garlic ahead of time. Combine everything up to stage 4 when you’re ready to cook for a quick meal!
