Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food: Easy Cheesy Mexican Chicken Spaghetti! This dish combines the best of two worlds: the creamy goodness of cheesy pasta and the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine.
I still remember the first time I made this dish for my family. It was one of those busy weeknights where everyone had a million things going on. I wanted something quick, delicious, and satisfying. The moment I served it, my kids’ faces lit up like it was Christmas morning! They devoured it in minutes, and it quickly became our family favorite. Now, it’s my go-to recipe whenever I crave something cozy and filling!
So, if you’re on the hunt for a dish that’s easy to whip up, sounds fantastic, and pleases even the pickiest eaters, you’re in the right place!
What’s in Easy Cheesy Mexican Chicken Spaghetti?
Let’s breakdown the star ingredients that make this dish so irresistible:
Spaghetti: Long, thin pasta that holds onto the sauce perfectly. I usually go for whole wheat or gluten-free spaghetti depending on what I have handy!
Cooked Chicken: Shredded or cubed chicken adds great protein to the dish. I often use leftover roasted chicken, but rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut.
Cheddar Cheese: The more, the merrier! Sharp cheddar brings a rich and tangy flavor, and it melts beautifully into the pasta.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This creamy base adds a luscious texture and flavor to the dish. I like to use the low-fat version to make it a bit healthier without sacrificing taste.
Ro-Tel Diced Tomatoes: These seasoned tomatoes pack a punch of flavor that brightens up the whole dish. Look for the mild version if you’re feeding kids, or go wild with the hot if you like the heat!
Green Bell Pepper and Onion: These add a fresh crunch and a savory depth to the spaghetti. You can use any color bell pepper you prefer; I’m a fan of the vibrant mix!
Spices: I usually throw in some garlic powder, chili powder, and cumin for a kick of flavor and warmth.
Is Easy Cheesy Mexican Chicken Spaghetti Good for You?
Let’s break it down!
Chicken: A great source of lean protein that keeps you full longer. Plus, using leftover chicken is a fantastic way to reduce waste and save time!
Spaghetti: Depending on the type you choose, pasta can provide complex carbohydrates and fiber (especially if you go for whole wheat).
Cheddar Cheese: This is where the indulgence comes in! Cheese adds calcium, but you might want to watch your portion sizes if you’re keeping an eye on your fat intake.
Vegetables: The bell peppers and onions contribute vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which are always a plus.
The only downside? This dish can be a bit higher in calories and sodium due to the cream of chicken soup and cheese. But, you can adjust these ingredients to suit your dietary needs!
Ingredients List
This recipe serves about 6 hearty portions. Here’s what you’ll need:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
– 1 can (10 oz) Ro-Tel tomatoes (mild or hot)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cilantro (optional, for garnish)
How to Make Easy Cheesy Mexican Chicken Spaghetti?
Now that we’ve got everything ready, let’s dive into this deliciously cheesy process:
1. **Cook the spaghetti:** In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook your spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. **Sauté vegetables:** In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced bell pepper and onion until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. **Combine chicken and sauce:** Lower the heat, then stir in the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, Ro-Tel tomatoes, garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook it all together for about 3-4 minutes until heated through.
4. **Mix in cheese:** Add the cheddar cheese into the chicken mixture, stirring until it melts into a creamy sauce.
5. **Add spaghetti:** Finally, toss the drained spaghetti into the cheesy chicken sauce until well combined and everything is beautifully coated.
6. **Serve:** Serve warm, garnished with cilantro if you’re feeling fancy, and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!
Cheesy Variations and Tips!
If you wanna play around with this recipe, here are a few ideas:
– **Add beans**: Black beans or pinto beans can add extra protein and fiber.
– **Build the heat**: If you love spice, consider adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
– **Vegetarian style**: Substitute the chicken with cooked quinoa or mushrooms for a veggie version!
– **Crunchy topping**: Top with crushed tortilla chips for a fantastic crunch.
This Easy Cheesy Mexican Chicken Spaghetti is comfort food at its finest! I’d absolutely love to hear how it turns out for you. So, grab your apron, and let’s get cooking! Can’t wait for you to experience this cheesy delight!