Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Spaghetti with Three-Cheese Sauce

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Spaghetti with Three-Cheese Sauce is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and creamy textures, making it perfect for family dinners or date nights. This recipe offers a comforting bowl of spaghetti topped with succulent chicken and a luscious cheese sauce that will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. With its blend of spices and creamy goodness, this pasta dish stands out as an exceptional choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal ingredients, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The Cajun seasoning adds a zesty kick that complements the creamy garlic butter sauce beautifully.
• Cheesy Goodness: The combination of three cheeses creates a rich and decadent sauce that clings perfectly to the spaghetti.
• Versatile Dish: Great for both casual meals and special occasions, this dish can easily be customized with different proteins or veggies.
• Hearty Meal: Packed with protein from the chicken and filling carbohydrates from the pasta, it’s a well-rounded option for dinner.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Spaghetti with Three-Cheese Sauce, you’ll need some essential tools to make the cooking process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for boiling spaghetti evenly without overcrowding.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing chicken and creating the creamy sauce in one pan.
• Knife: Essential for cutting chicken into strips for quick cooking.
• Mixing bowl: Helps in tossing chicken with seasonings before cooking.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thick strips
• 1½ tsp Cajun seasoning
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Sauce

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning

For Serving

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Spaghetti with Three-Cheese Sauce

Step 1: Boil the Spaghetti

Boil a large pot of salted water. Once boiling, add the spaghetti and cook until al dente. Drain it well and set aside.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, toss the strips of chicken with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until all pieces are evenly coated.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil along with 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces:
1. Cook for about 6–8 minutes.
2. Turn occasionally until they are golden brown and cooked through.
3. Transfer cooked chicken to a plate to keep warm.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Lower the heat to medium:
1. Melt the remaining tablespoon of butter in the same skillet.
2. Add minced garlic; sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Pour in chicken broth while scraping up any bits from the skillet for added flavor.

Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese

Stir in heavy cream:
1. Bring mixture to a gentle simmer.
2. Add Velveeta cubes; stir until smooth.
3. Gradually mix in mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses until thickened.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Sprinkle in Italian seasoning:
1. Adjust salt and pepper according to taste.
2. Toss cooked spaghetti into the sauce, ensuring every strand is coated well.
3. Let it cook on low heat for about a minute to absorb flavors.

Step 7: Serve Your Dish

Plate your pasta:
1. Arrange spaghetti on each plate alongside golden garlic butter chicken.
2. Spoon extra sauce generously over each serving.
3. Garnish with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Spaghetti with Three-Cheese Sauce!

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Spaghetti with Three-Cheese Sauce

Serving Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Spaghetti with Three-Cheese Sauce is an opportunity to create a delightful dining experience. The rich flavors and creamy texture of the dish pair wonderfully with various accompaniments, enhancing your meal.

With Fresh Salad

• A crisp green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the pasta.

With Garlic Bread

• Warm, buttery garlic bread complements the creamy sauce, perfect for soaking up any leftover cheese goodness on your plate.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus provide a healthy side that adds color and nutrition to your meal.

With Grilled Corn on the Cob

• Sweet grilled corn on the cob brings a touch of sweetness and crunch, making it a delightful addition to your dinner spread.

How to Perfect Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Spaghetti with Three-Cheese Sauce

To ensure your Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Spaghetti with Three-Cheese Sauce comes out perfect every time, consider these simple tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs elevate the flavor profile significantly compared to dried versions.
• Don’t overcook the chicken: Cook until just golden brown and cooked through; this keeps it juicy and tender.
• Stir constantly when adding cheese: This prevents clumps and ensures a smooth, creamy sauce.
• Adjust seasoning gradually: Taste as you go; this allows you to find the perfect balance of spices without overpowering the dish.
• Let spaghetti absorb flavors: Allow it to sit in the sauce for a minute before serving; this enhances the overall taste experience.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Spaghetti with Three-Cheese Sauce

Complement your Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Spaghetti with Three-Cheese Sauce by pairing it with delicious side dishes that enhance and balance the meal’s richness.

1. Caesar Salad: A classic salad featuring crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing adds a crunchy texture.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a nutritious contrast while adding vibrant color to your plate.
3. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella balls, basil leaves, and cherry tomatoes drizzled with balsamic glaze are refreshing bites that awaken the palate.
4. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and olive oil offers a burst of flavor that’s hard to resist.
5. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes enhance comfort food vibes while perfectly pairing with chicken.
6. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables creates an inviting starter for your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Spaghetti with Three-Cheese Sauce can be easy, but there are some common pitfalls to avoid for the best results.

• Using Overcooked Pasta: Overcooking your spaghetti can lead to a mushy texture. Always cook it al dente according to package instructions for the perfect bite.
• Not Seasoning the Chicken Properly: Skimping on seasoning can make your chicken bland. Ensure you thoroughly coat the chicken with the Cajun seasoning and spices for maximum flavor.
• Rushing the Sauce Preparation: A rich sauce requires time. Allow your cream and cheese to melt slowly over low heat for a smooth and creamy texture.
• Skipping Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley adds brightness and flavor. Don’t forget to garnish your dish; it elevates both taste and presentation.
• Neglecting to Taste as You Cook: Failing to taste your sauce can lead to missed opportunities for adjustment. Always sample your dish before serving and adjust salt or spices as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• item It will last up to 3 days when properly stored.

Freezing Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Spaghetti with Three-Cheese Sauce

• item Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
• item It can be frozen for up to 3 months; label with date.

Reheating Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Spaghetti with Three-Cheese Sauce

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if necessary, stirring until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making this delicious recipe.

How can I customize Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Spaghetti with Three-Cheese Sauce?

You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and color. Swap out cheeses based on what you have on hand.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Combine them with freshly cooked spaghetti right before serving.

What type of pasta works best other than spaghetti?

While spaghetti is traditional, you can use fettuccine, penne, or any pasta shape you prefer for this creamy dish.

Is it possible to make this dish lighter?

Absolutely! Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or use lower-fat cheese options for a lighter version of this meal.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Spaghetti with Three-Cheese Sauce is not only rich and comforting but also versatile enough for various adjustments based on personal preferences. Whether you’re enjoying it on a casual weeknight or serving guests at a dinner party, this recipe promises satisfaction. Don’t hesitate to try it today!