Things in our daily lives seem to be ever changing and that even shows up at meal times. Our kitchen can shift from a place of big family dinners to smaller, quieter, simpler moments. We still crave food that tastes great, nourishes us, and is easy to throw together. That’s why I love easy, flexible recipes like this Creamy, Cheesy Spaghetti & Chicken.

It’s the kind of dish that’s ready in about 30 minutes, uses simple ingredients you likely already have on hand, and scales perfectly whether you’re cooking for two or four. It’s also creamy, satisfying, and just a little nostalgic, the perfect blend of easy and special.

Creamy, Cheesy Spaghetti & Chicken is an easy, comforting meal for two or four and ready in 30 minutes!

Living simpler doesn’t mean giving up cozy, comforting meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Minimal Ingredients — pantry basics + fridge staples
Quick Cooking Time — ready in about 30 minutes
Flexible and Forgiving — substitutions and add-ins welcome
Scales Easily — 2 servings, 4 servings, or even 6 with simple adjustments
Cozy and Comforting — perfect for simpler living and gentle meals

How to make Creamy, Cheesy Spaghetti & Chicken

Cook spaghetti in salted water per package directions. Add peas to the colander before draining the spaghetti and reserve some pasta water.

Cut 1 medium chicken breast into bit-sized pieces. Season with salt and pepper or a favorite spice blend.

Melt 1/2 tablespoon butter in a small skillet.

Add the chicken to the skillet and sauté until cooked through. Remove the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Tear or shred the cheeses you are using into smaller pieces.

To the skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter; add 1/2 cup milk, and stir in 4 slices American cheese and 4 slices Cheddar cheese, heating over low heat until melted and smooth.

Combine the pasta, peas, chicken, and sauce. Toss gently until spaghetti is evenly coated. Season to taste. Plate and sprinkle with extra cheese and garnish with chopped parsley or fresh basil, if desired.

Want to cook for just two?

Use 4 oz spaghetti, 2 slices each of Swiss and American cheese, and 1/4 cup peas.
Scale the milk and butter down slightly.

Need to serve six?

Increase to 12 oz spaghetti, 6 slices each of cheese, and 1 1/2 cups peas.

Recipe Note:

“When I first made this recipe, I used Swiss cheese but found that it didn’t melt as smoothly as I wanted. After testing with cheddar, the sauce turned out creamy and perfect — so that’s the version I recommend for the best results!

For the smoothest sauce, be sure to shred your cheddar fresh from the block (pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt quite as nicely) and stir it in over low heat to avoid clumping.”

Cheese Substitutions for Creamy Cheesy Spaghetti & Chicken

This easy pasta dish is delicious with the cheddar and American cheese combo, but it’s also super flexible! Here are some tasty cheese options you can swap or blend in, depending on what you have on hand or the flavor you’re craving:

Mild & Melty

Monterey Jack – Smooth and mild, it melts beautifully into a creamy sauce.
Colby – Similar to cheddar, but creamier and slightly sweeter.
Mozzarella (low-moisture) – Great for a gooey, stretchy texture.

Bold & Flavorful

Sharp Cheddar – Adds tangy depth and more robust cheddar flavor.
Gruyère – Nutty and rich with excellent melting qualities.
Fontina – Buttery and earthy; melts like a dream.

Creamy Add-Ins

Cream Cheese (2–3 tablespoons) – Stir into the milk and butter for extra velvety texture.
Boursin (Garlic & Herb) – Adds richness and flavor without extra seasoning.
Parmesan (shredded) – Finish with a sprinkle for salty, savory goodness.

Flavor Pairing Ideas:

Cheddar + Mozzarella – Classic comfort with a creamy stretch.
Gruyère + Cream Cheese – Sophisticated and indulgent.
Fontina + Parmesan – Smooth with a flavorful finish.
Colby + Monterey Jack – Family-friendly and mild.

Feel free to experiment—this recipe is all about comfort, convenience, and making it your own!

Creamy, Cheesy Spaghetti & Chicken

Creamy, Cheesy Spaghetti & Chicken is an easy, comforting meal for two or four and ready in 30 minutes!

Print Recipe

Ingredients

8 oz Spaghetti 1/2 of a 1 lb box
1 tbs Butter
1/2 cup Milk
4 Slices Cheddar Cheese Shredded
4 Slices Ameerican Cheese Torn
1 Cup Frozen Peas
1 Medium Chicken Breast
Salt and Pepper, to taste
Garlic Powder, Nutmeg Optional
Fresh Parsley or Basil for Garnish

Instructions

Cook spaghetti in salted water. Add peas to the colander before draining the spaghetti and reserve some pasta water.
Sauté diced chicken if using.
In a skillet, melt butter, add milk, and stir in cheeses until melted and smooth.
Combine pasta, peas, chicken, and sauce. Toss gently, adding a splash of pasta water if needed. Season to taste.
Serve warm. Sprinkle with extra cheese if desired.

Optional Substitutions and Add-ins:

Broccoli florets
Favorite cheese
Mushrooms
Fresh spinach
Cooked ham or crumbled bacon

Simple Side Idea: Glazed Carrots

If you want to add a side but don’t have salad ingredients on hand, simple Glazed Carrots are a perfect companion. Peel, slice, and simmer carrots until tender. Toss with a few ingredients for a lovely side to compliment the chicken .

Living Simpler

Meals like this are a reminder that cooking doesn’t have to be complicated to be meaningful. A few good ingredients, a little stirring, and a warm plate shared with someone you love—that’s more than enough.

Cooking for two or four invites us to slow down, savor the moment, and find joy in simplicity. There’s beauty in these quick and easy dinners, a gracefulness that matches this season of life.

I’d love to hear: Would you add broccoli, mushrooms, or bacon to yours? Let me know in the comments!

Save this recipe for days ahead when time (or energy) is short!

Pin it, print it, or bookmark it — and keep it handy for whenever you want a little comfort without the fuss.

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