Spaghetti Chicken
Spaghetti Chicken is a hearty and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken simmered in a rich tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners or gatherings. The combination of juicy chicken, aromatic garlic, and zesty tomatoes creates a comforting meal that pairs beautifully with spaghetti, appealing to both adults and children alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash chicken pieces and pat dry.
- Season with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon pepper.
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown chicken in oil; remove chicken.
- Pour off all but 3 tablespoons of fat.
- Add onions and garlic.
- Cook and stir until onion is tender.
- Stir in chicken and remaining ingredients, except spaghetti and cheese.
- Cover tightly; cook chicken slowly for 1 to 1 1/2 hours or until tender, stirring occasionally and adding water, if necessary.
- Skim off excess fat.
- Serve on spaghetti; sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs before cooking. If you prefer, substitute the chicken with turkey or use boneless skinless chicken thighs for a quicker cooking time. To enhance the sauce, consider adding red pepper flakes for heat or a splash of red wine for depth. Fresh basil can also be a great addition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the spaghetti chicken over a bed of cooked spaghetti, and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. A side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad pairs beautifully with this dish. For a complete Italian experience, consider serving it alongside Italian roasted potatoes or a classic Chicken Parmigiana.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between until heated through. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti Chicken contains roughly 283 calories, with 20g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (117% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (108% of the Daily Value), and potassium (54% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1008mg per serving (44% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of tomatoes for this recipe?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes if they are in season, or substitute with crushed tomatoes for a smoother sauce. If you like a chunkier texture, diced tomatoes work well too. Adjust the seasoning based on the type of tomatoes you choose to enhance the dish's flavor.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, include red pepper flakes to the sauce while it simmers. You can also use spicy Italian sausage instead of chicken or add diced jalapeños for extra spice. Adjust the amount according to your heat preference.
What type of spaghetti is best for this recipe?
Any type of spaghetti will work well, but consider using whole wheat or gluten-free spaghetti for a healthier option. The long strands of spaghetti help to soak up the delicious sauce. Just cook it al dente to maintain a nice texture against the tender chicken.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).