Get ready to fall in love with a soul-warming Southern classic! Ultimate Chicken Spaghetti is that magical blend of creamy, cheesy comfort and just the right touch of zing from green chilies. You’ll find tender chicken, perfectly cooked spaghetti, and vibrant veggies all snuggled in a bubbling, golden casserole—this is the dish I make when I want every forkful to taste like a warm hug. Ultimate Chicken Spaghetti is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any time you need something hearty, kid-friendly, and impossible to resist.

Ultimate Chicken Spaghetti Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

There’s nothing fancy here—just honest, crowd-pleasing staples that shine brightest when paired in this casserole. Each element, from the creamy soups to the shredded cheddar, brings its own character to the Ultimate Chicken Spaghetti and ensures that every bite is layered, satisfying, and a little bit nostalgic.

Spaghetti (12 ounces, broken in half): Breaking the pasta helps every bite capture more cheesy goodness and fits perfectly in the casserole.
Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Gives a little richness for sautéing the veggies and infuses flavor right from the start.
Onion (1 small, finely chopped): Adds sweetness and depth—don’t skip it!
Green bell pepper (1, diced): Brings a pop of fresh color and subtle zing.
Cooked shredded chicken (2 cups): Rotisserie chicken keeps things extra flavorful and fast.
Cream of mushroom soup (1 can, 10.5 oz): The savory backbone of the sauce, making it oh-so-creamy and comforting.
Cream of chicken soup (1 can, 10.5 oz): For extra creamy texture and a boost of chicken flavor.
Diced tomatoes with green chilies (1 can, 10 oz, such as Rotel): Adds tang, color, and a whisper of spice that lifts the whole dish.
Chicken broth (1/2 cup): Helps everything meld together, ensuring it’s never dry.
Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups): Melts to that irresistible cheesy blanket. Don’t be shy!
Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Subtle savoriness that ties everything together.
Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): For a gentle smokiness and pretty color.
Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t forget to season just to your liking.
Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup, optional): For those who need just a bit more savory bite on top.

How to Make Ultimate Chicken Spaghetti

Step 1: Prep Your Kitchen

Fire up your oven to 350°F (175°C), grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, and pretend for a moment that you’re about to wow a hungry crowd. A little prep here helps everything flow once you start cooking—trust me, it’s worth it!

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a big pot of salted water to a boil, then add the spaghetti. Cook until just al dente (nobody likes mushy noodles), drain well, and set aside. Breaking the spaghetti ensures every scoop fits snugly on your fork and blends beautifully with the sauce.

Step 3: Sauté Your Veggies

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium. Sauté the onion and green bell pepper until they’re softened and fragrant—this takes about 4–5 minutes. It’s where you build the fresh flavor foundation for your Ultimate Chicken Spaghetti.

Step 4: Mix Everything Together

Grab your biggest mixing bowl. To the cooked spaghetti, add in the sautéed veggies, shredded chicken, both soups, diced tomatoes with green chilies, chicken broth, 1 1/2 cups of the cheddar cheese, garlic powder, paprika, and a generous sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir until you’ve got an even, creamy mixture—this step is messy and fun!

Step 5: Assemble and Top It Off

Pour the whole lovely mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top, and if you’re in the mood for extra oomph, go ahead and add that Parmesan. This is what gives you that mouthwatering golden crust.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes. You’re looking for bubbly edges and a cheese layer that’s glowing golden and irresistible. Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes once it’s out of the oven—this lets everything set up and makes it easier to serve.

How to Serve Ultimate Chicken Spaghetti

Garnishes

A handful of chopped fresh parsley or green onions sprinkled on top instantly brightens your Ultimate Chicken Spaghetti and adds fresh color. A little extra Parmesan is always welcome for cheese lovers. If you’re feeling bold, a pinch of red pepper flakes brings a gentle heat that’s perfect for those who like a little spice!

Side Dishes

I love serving this casserole with classic sides—think garlic bread or a buttery dinner roll to soak up all that creamy sauce. For balance, a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is perfect. Steamed green beans or roasted broccoli add just the right crunch alongside the rich, cheesy pasta.

Creative Ways to Present

For a show-stopping presentation, try baking your Ultimate Chicken Spaghetti in individual ramekins or oven-safe bowls—each person gets their own bubbly, golden serving! Or pile portions onto a bed of sautéed spinach for a pretty twist. Leftovers transform easily into next-day lunch by tucking a slice into a tortilla for a quick, handheld snack.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cover any leftover Ultimate Chicken Spaghetti tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container; it’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors only get better overnight, making it prime next-day comfort food.

Freezing

This casserole is born for the freezer! Assemble as usual (hold off on baking and cheese topping if you like), then cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking, adding your cheese on top just before it goes in the oven.

Reheating

To reheat, scoop portions into a microwave-safe dish, cover, and warm gently until heated through, stirring halfway. For best results and a crisp top, reheat leftovers in a 350°F oven, covered with foil, for 15–20 minutes, then uncover for the last several minutes.

FAQs

Can I make Ultimate Chicken Spaghetti ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the dish completely, cover, and refrigerate it overnight. Just add a few extra minutes to your baking time if you’re starting from cold.

What’s the best chicken to use?

Rotisserie chicken is a huge time-saver and adds fantastic flavor, but you can use any leftover cooked chicken you have on hand—even grilled or poached works well.

Can I substitute the soups?

Yes! If you want, you can use all cream of mushroom, all cream of chicken, or even low-sodium or reduced-fat versions to fit your preferences.

Is Ultimate Chicken Spaghetti spicy?

It’s just gently zesty thanks to the diced tomatoes with green chilies—you’ll notice flavor, not fire! For more (or less) spice, choose mild or hot Rotel, or add extra red pepper flakes to taste.

Can I use a different cheese?

Definitely. While cheddar is classic, you can swap in Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or even a Mexican cheese blend. Just make sure it’s a good melter!

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to share this Ultimate Chicken Spaghetti with your crew and make it part of your regular comfort food rotation. Whether you’re new to casseroles or an old pro, this recipe is guaranteed to bring everyone running to the table. Go ahead—dig in, and enjoy every creamy, cheesy, utterly comforting bite!