Description
Ultimate Chicken Gravy Spaghetti is a comforting, rich-flavored dish that combines tender chicken cooked in a savory gravy with perfectly cooked spaghetti. This recipe elevates simple pasta by incorporating a luscious, deeply seasoned chicken gravy that soaks into the noodles, delivering a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for any day of the week.
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Gravy
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
For the Spaghetti
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- Water for boiling
- Salt, for pasta water
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Chicken Gravy Base: In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
- Create the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the cooked onions and garlic, stirring constantly to combine. Cook the flour for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently, to remove the raw flour taste and create a light roux.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth to the roux to avoid lumps. Stir in the heavy cream, salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika. Bring the mixture to a simmer and allow it to thicken, about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Incorporate the Chicken: Add the cooked chicken pieces into the gravy, stirring to coat and heat through, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes so the chicken absorbs the rich flavors of the gravy.
- Combine with Spaghetti: Toss the cooked spaghetti directly into the skillet with the chicken gravy, mixing well to ensure the noodles are evenly coated with the savory sauce.
- Serve and Garnish: Transfer the chicken gravy spaghetti to serving plates and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and optional grated Parmesan cheese. Serve hot for a comforting meal.
Notes
- For a thicker gravy, cook it for a few more minutes to reduce further before adding the chicken.
- You can use rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Use gluten-free pasta and flour alternatives to make the dish gluten-free.
- The gravy can be made a day ahead and reheated gently before serving.