Ret Soup
Introduction
This delightful twist on chicken spaghetti combines rich cheese flavors with a tantalizing hint of garlic, creating a comforting yet exciting dish perfect for any family dinner.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
– 300g spaghetti
– 500g chicken breast, diced
– 30ml olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 400g canned chopped tomatoes
– 150ml chicken broth
– 200g grated cheddar cheese
– 100g grated mozzarella cheese
– 50g parmesan cheese, grated
– 5g dried oregano
– 5g dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 15g fresh parsley, chopped
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Once done, drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until it is browned and cooked through. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
In the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
Stir in the canned chopped tomatoes and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper, and let it cook for 10 minutes.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Cheese
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, mixing it with the sauce. Stir in the grated cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, allowing them to melt and combine fully.
Step 6: Mix in the Spaghetti
Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, carefully tossing to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce and melted cheese.
Step 7: Bake the Dish
Transfer the spaghetti mixture to a large baking dish. Sprinkle the top with grated parmesan cheese and place the dish under a preheated grill for 3-5 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Storage Instructions
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Cheese Variations
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like fontina or gouda for a unique flavor profile.
Cooking Time Adjustments
Adjust cooking times as necessary based on your stovetop and oven settings to achieve the desired doneness.
Storage Instructions
Refrigeration
Allow the Cheesy Garlic Chicken Spaghetti to cool completely before storing. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 days.
Freezing
For longer storage, this dish can be frozen. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, ensuring you leave some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Cheesy Garlic Chicken Spaghetti with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the dish. For added flavor, consider sprinkling some extra parmesan or crushed red pepper flakes on top before serving. A chilled glass of white wine can complement the meal beautifully.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 4 servings):
Calories: 650
Protein: 40g
Carbohydrates: 70g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 90mg
Sodium: 600mg
Fiber: 4g
Sugars: 5g
Ingredient Substitutions
– Spaghetti: Substitute with whole wheat spaghetti or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option or dietary restrictions.
– Chicken breast: Use cooked rotisserie chicken or shredded turkey as a convenient alternative.
– Olive oil: Can be replaced with avocado oil or butter for cooking.
– Canned chopped tomatoes: Fresh diced tomatoes can be used, or a jar of marinara sauce for a quicker option.
– Cheddar cheese: Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese can be used for a spicy kick.
– Mozzarella cheese: A vegan cheese substitute could work as a dairy-free option.
– Chicken broth: Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian version of the dish.
– Fresh parsley: Substitute with fresh basil or cilantro for a different flavor profile.
Cook Techniques
Boiling Pasta
Cooking spaghetti requires boiling it in a large pot of salted water until it reaches al dente. This technique ensures that the pasta has a firm texture and can hold up well in the dish.
Sautéing
Sautéing is used to cook the chicken and aromatic vegetables like onion and garlic. This technique involves cooking ingredients quickly in a skillet with olive oil over medium heat, enhancing their flavors.
Simmering
Simmering allows the flavors of the canned tomatoes and chicken broth to meld together. This technique involves cooking the mixture gently on low heat, creating a rich and cohesive sauce.
Melting Cheese
Melting cheese into the sauce creates a creamy texture and rich flavor. This technique is done over low heat to prevent the cheese from clumping and ensures it incorporates smoothly into the dish.
Baking
Final baking involves transferring the spaghetti mixture to a baking dish and placing it under a grill until the top is golden and bubbly. This technique adds a delicious crispy texture to the cheese topping.
Garnishing
Garnishing with fresh parsley adds color and a hint of freshness to the finished dish. This final touch enhances both the appearance and flavor of the cheesy garlic chicken spaghetti.
FAQ
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute spaghetti with other types of pasta such as penne, fusilli, or linguine. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten intolerance.
Can I use boneless thighs instead of chicken breast?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be a great alternative. They tend to be juicier and add more flavor to the dish.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftover cheesy garlic chicken spaghetti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Certainly! You can include vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them along with the onion and garlic.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Garlic Chicken Spaghetti is not only a hearty meal but also a delightful blend of flavors that brings comfort to your dining table. With its creamy cheese and the aromatic touch of garlic, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Perfect for any occasion, it offers a satisfying taste that is both indulgent and easy to prepare.
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