The Perfect Spicy Southwest Chicken Spaghetti Recipe you’ll love it

If you’re craving a dinner that’s equal parts comforting and exciting, this Spicy Southwest Chicken Spaghetti recipe is your answer. Imagine tender chicken, al dente spaghetti, and a creamy, spicy sauce infused with Southwest flavors like cumin, chili powder, and a hint of lime. It’s a dish that brings the bold, vibrant tastes of the Southwest to your table in under an hour. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to customize to your spice tolerance.

What makes this recipe stand out? It’s the perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and tangy flavors, all wrapped up in one hearty dish. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a casual dinner, this Spicy Southwest Chicken Spaghetti is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Spicy Southwest Chicken Spaghetti

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 45 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Bold Flavors: The combination of spices, creamy sauce, and tender chicken creates a flavor explosion.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level or add your favorite veggies to make it your own.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike will love this comforting yet exciting dish.

Quick Facts

What You’ll Need

Ingredients

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Let’s Make It

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Spaghetti:
   Boil the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Veggies:
   In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
3. Add the Chicken and Spices:
   Stir in the cooked chicken, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld.
4. Create the Sauce:
   Pour in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Combine Everything:
   Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat it evenly with the sauce. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
6. Finish with Lime and Garnish:
   Squeeze in the lime juice and season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Conclusion

This Spicy Southwest Chicken Spaghetti is the ultimate comfort food with a kick! It’s creamy, flavorful, and packed with Southwest-inspired spices that will leave your taste buds dancing. Plus, it’s ready in just 45 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.

Don’t forget to customize it to your liking—add more veggies, swap the protein, or adjust the spice level. Once you try it, you’ll see why this dish is a favorite in households across the USA.

We’d love to hear how your dish turned out! Share your experience in the comments below or tag us on social media with your creations. And if you’re looking for more delicious recipes, be sure to subscribe for weekly updates!

FAQs

1. How to make Spicy Southwest Chicken Spaghetti less spicy?

Simply reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and use mild diced tomatoes with green chilies instead of the hot variety.

2. Can I substitute the heavy cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk for a lighter version.

3. How to store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to refresh the sauce.

4. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Penne, fusilli, or fettuccine would work well in this recipe.

5. Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop.

Wrapping It Up

There you have it—a delicious, easy-to-make Spicy Southwest Chicken Spaghetti recipe that’s perfect for any night of the week. With its bold flavors, creamy texture, and quick preparation time, it’s no wonder this dish is a favorite among families and food lovers alike.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, fire up the stove, and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s as exciting as it is comforting. Don’t forget to share your thoughts and photos with us—we can’t wait to see your culinary creations!