Easy

Chicken Spaghetti And Meatballs

Name: Chicken Spaghetti And Meatballs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 500 g ground chicken; 1 whole large egg; 60 ml breadcrumbs; 50 g Parmesan cheese, grated; 2 tbsp fresh basil, finely chopped; 1 tsp dried oregano; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 400 g spaghetti; 796 ml crushed tomatoes (1 large can); 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 tsp sugar; 3 tbsp olive oil; 0.25 tsp red pepper flakes

35 min4461 cal

By Chef Marco Deluca·Red Seal Certified Chef|January 15, 2024

This Chicken Spaghetti And Meatballs recipe is a Canadian favourite that brings incredible flavour to your dinner table with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekend cooking, this dish features tender, juicy chicken paired with carefully balanced seasonings that the whole family will love. Whether you are meal prepping for the week or cooking for guests, this recipe delivers consistent, restaurant-quality results every time. Every step has been tested in Canadian kitchens using ingredients available at your local grocery store. With a prep time of just 10 minutes, you can have this delicious meal ready without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of simple techniques and bold flavours makes this one of the most requested chicken recipes on our site. Bookmark this page and add it to your regular rotation — you will not be disappointed.

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Ingredients

Servings:

Instructions

👨‍🍳Chef's Notes

Ice‑Water Mix

“Stir a tablespoon of ice‑cold water into the ground chicken before adding egg and breadcrumbs; the extra moisture creates a finer crumb structure, keeping the meatballs tender during the 20‑minute simmer in tomato sauce. Chill the mixture 15 minutes before shaping to prevent them from falling apart.”

About This Recipe

Chicken Spaghetti and Meatballs is a dish that perfectly captures the essence of Canadian comfort food. With its creamy sauce enveloping the tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta, it creates a warm, satisfying experience that feels like a hug on a plate. This recipe is especially beloved for its ease of preparation, making it a go-to for busy weeknights when you need something delicious and nourishing without spending hours in the kitchen. The rich flavors of garlic and Parmesan elevate the dish, making it a favorite among both kids and adults alike.

As a Canadian recipe writer, I find this dish resonates deeply with home cooks across the country. It’s a meal that brings families together, whether it's for a casual weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends. The combination of juicy chicken and creamy sauce offers a balance that’s hard to resist, while the fresh parsley adds a touch of brightness. This dish is truly special, and once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a staple in so many homes.

Tips for the Best Chicken Spaghetti And Meatballs

To ensure your chicken remains juicy and tender in this dish, it's crucial to cook it to an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F). Sauté the chicken until it’s lightly browned, but don’t overcook it, as this can lead to dryness. When combining the heavy cream and Parmesan, make sure to stir gently to create a smooth sauce without clumping. The key to a luscious texture is allowing the sauce to simmer just long enough to thicken without boiling, which helps meld all the flavors beautifully.

What to Serve With It

For an authentic Canadian touch, serve your Chicken Spaghetti and Meatballs with a side of garlic bread and a fresh Caesar salad. The crispy bread is perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce, while the salad adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the dish. You might also consider pairing it with a light, fruity white wine, such as a Pinot Grigio, to complement the flavors and enhance your dining experience.

Storage & Reheating

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to prevent drying out. If you want to freeze it, the dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain its creamy texture.

Nutrition Per Serving

461

Calories

35g

Protein

18g

Fat

40g

Carbs

Fiber5g

Sugar9g

Sodium447mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?+

Absolutely! While spaghetti works wonderfully, you can also try penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta for a different texture. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type you choose.

What can I substitute for heavy cream if I want a lighter dish?+

You can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and Greek yogurt for a lighter alternative. Keep in mind that this will alter the richness of the sauce but can still yield a delicious result.

How can I make this dish spicier?+

For some heat, add crushed red pepper flakes to the garlic while sautéing or stir in a dash of hot sauce into the cream sauce. Just remember to start small and adjust to taste!

Can I add vegetables to this dish?+

Definitely! Bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms make excellent additions. Sauté them alongside the garlic before adding the chicken for extra flavor and nutrition.

What’s the best way to reheat this dish without it becoming dry?+

Reheat gently over low heat on the stove, adding a bit of broth or cream to keep the sauce creamy. Avoid microwaving as this can lead to uneven heating and dryness.

Recipe at a Glance

Prep:

10 min

Cook:

25 min

Total:

35 min

Servings:

Difficulty:

Easy

Pro Tips

1Chilling meatballs before cooking helps them hold their shape and prevents them from falling apart in the pan
2Don't overcrowd the pan when browning — work in batches if necessary to get good caramelization on the meatballs
3Add a splash of pasta cooking water to the sauce at the end; the starch helps the sauce cling to the noodles perfectly
4Chicken meatballs are leaner than beef, so don't overcook or they'll become dry and tough

Variations

Mix ground chicken with ground pork (250g each) for richer, more traditional meatball flavor
Use angel hair or linguine instead of spaghetti for a different texture experience
Make it creamy by stirring 60ml heavy cream into the finished marinara sauce

Chicken Pasta