There’s something heartwarming about a steaming plate of chicken spaghetti. It’s creamy, cheesy, and full of comforting flavors that make it an all-time family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just need a filling weeknight dinner, this chicken spaghetti recipe is a winner.
In this recipe, tender chunks of chicken are tossed with cooked spaghetti and a creamy, cheesy sauce, then baked until bubbly and golden. What sets this dish apart from traditional spaghetti is the richness of the sauce — it’s not a tomato-based dish, but rather a velvety, savory casserole-style meal that both kids and adults love.
Let’s dive into the details of this delicious and easy-to-make dish.
Ingredients and Step-by-Step Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Serves: 6-8
✳️ Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
- 8 oz spaghetti (half a standard box)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies), drained
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup chopped green bell pepper (optional)
- ½ cup chopped onion (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup chicken broth or water (for moisture if needed)
🥘 Instructions:
1: Prepare the Pasta
Cook spaghetti according to the package directions in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside. Don’t overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook while baking.
2: Cook the Veggies (Optional)
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onions and bell peppers until soft, about 5–7 minutes. This step adds depth of flavor, but it can be skipped for a quicker version.
3: Make the Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, Rotel, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well until fully mixed. Then, add the sautéed veggies (if using) and half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
4: Combine Everything
Add the cooked chicken and spaghetti into the sauce mixture. Stir everything together until the spaghetti is evenly coated. If the mixture feels too thick, add a little chicken broth or water to loosen it up.
5: Bake the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the chicken spaghetti mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with the remaining shredded cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
6: Serve
Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. Pair with a side salad or garlic bread for a full meal.
Tips, Variations & Storage
✅ Tips for Best Results:
- Use rotisserie chicken for quick prep.
- Add spice with cayenne or red pepper flakes if you like heat.
- Pre-cook veggies to avoid watery casserole.
🔁 Variations:
- Add broccoli or peas for added nutrients.
- Use different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack.
- Swap soups for homemade sauces or low-sodium alternatives.
🧊 Storage Instructions:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- To freeze, place the mixture in a freezer-safe dish before baking. Thaw overnight and bake as instructed.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
This creamy chicken spaghetti is a perfect comfort food. It brings together the richness of cheese and cream with the hearty satisfaction of chicken and pasta. It’s also highly customizable — you can make it spicy, veggie-loaded, or even low-carb with zucchini noodles.
It’s an ideal make-ahead meal, great for potlucks, and kid-approved every time. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, this recipe is foolproof and incredibly rewarding.
So, next time you’re craving something warm, cheesy, and utterly satisfying, whip up this chicken spaghetti recipe — your taste buds will thank you!
Conclusion:
The chicken spaghetti recipe is more than just a dish; it’s a reliable go-to comfort meal. With minimal prep, pantry-friendly ingredients, and a deliciously creamy result, it’s no wonder this casserole has earned a spot in kitchens everywhere. Add it to your recipe box today!