This Easy One-Pot Chicken Spaghetti is a life-saver for busy days! You get tender chicken and pasta cooked together with tasty tomatoes and spices, all in one pot—no fuss!
I love how quick this dish comes together. Plus, fewer dishes to wash means more time to kick back and relax! Who else finds that the best part? 🙋♂️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I like using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their lean meat. If you’re looking for a lighter option, chicken thighs work great too. They’re juicier and more forgiving if slightly overcooked.
Spaghetti: Regular spaghetti is perfect here, but feel free to use whole wheat or even gluten-free pasta if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you use.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds a nice flavor, but you can substitute it with canola or vegetable oil if you’re in a pinch. Butter is also a tasty option for added richness!
Cheese: I recommend cheddar for its meltiness. You can also use mozzarella or a mix of both. If you want a dairy-free version, go for a plant-based cheese alternative that melts well.
How Do I Ensure My Pasta Cooks Perfectly Without Sticking?
Cooking pasta in one pot can be tricky, but with a few tips, you can avoid the dreaded stickiness!
- Start by boiling enough liquid; it should cover the pasta completely for even cooking.
- Stir the spaghetti occasionally while cooking. This prevents it from clumping together.
- If you notice it’s getting too thick or dry, don’t hesitate to add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it juicy.
This technique gives you perfectly cooked pasta that absorbs the flavors of the sauce! Enjoy your one-pot wonder!
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
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) spaghetti, broken in half
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or mixed herbs)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy one-pot chicken spaghetti takes about 10 minutes to prepare, and around 20 minutes to cook. In just about half an hour, you’ll have a delicious dinner ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Chicken:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the bite-sized chicken pieces. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Cook for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned but not fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
In the same pot, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the onion becomes softened. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant and slightly golden.
3. Add the Sauces:
Now, pour in the can of diced tomatoes (don’t drain them!) and the chicken broth. Stir in the dried Italian seasoning, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Cook the Pasta:
Next, add the broken spaghetti noodles into the pot. Make sure they’re well submerged in the liquid. Cover the pot and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to help prevent the pasta from sticking together.
5. Return the Chicken:
After 10 minutes, return the chicken to the pot. Mix it in well, cover again, and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the pasta is tender and fully cooked, and the chicken is no longer pink inside. You can add a splash of chicken broth if it looks too dry.
6. Melt the Cheese:
Once everything is cooked, remove the pot from heat. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top, cover again, and let it sit for a few minutes so the cheese can melt beautifully.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, garnish your delicious spaghetti with freshly chopped parsley for that extra touch. Serve warm and enjoy your comforting one-pot meal with very little cleanup!
This dish is sure to be a hit with the family and easy enough for a weeknight dinner!
FAQ for Easy One-Pot Chicken Spaghetti
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! You can substitute spaghetti with other pasta shapes, such as penne or fusilli. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose, as some may require different cooking durations.
What If I Don’t Have Chicken Broth?
No worries! If you don’t have chicken broth, you can use water instead. For added flavor, consider including a teaspoon of bouillon or stock seasoning that can enhance the taste of the dish.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, simply replace the chicken with your choice of veggies—such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit the cheese or use a plant-based cheese for a dairy-free option.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For reheating, warm it on the stove with a splash of broth or water to prevent it from drying out.
Feel free to reach out if you have more questions or need any further tips! Enjoy cooking!
