If ever there was a meal that checks all the boxes for weeknight comfort, crowd-pleasing coziness, and cheesy, nostalgic goodness, Chicken Spaghetti has to be it. This dreamy dish combines tender pasta, succulent pulled chicken, and a creamy, savory sauce that’s loaded with cheese and a punch of gentle seasonings. Whether you’re looking to win smiles at a potluck, or simply want a meal that makes leftovers worth fighting over, Chicken Spaghetti delivers on flavor, ease, and pure joy with every golden, bubbling bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient for Chicken Spaghetti is easy to find but absolutely vital for building layers of flavor, texture, and warmth. These simple items join forces to create a dish that’s irresistibly creamy and satisfying, with just enough color and crunch to keep every forkful interesting.
- Spaghetti (12 ounces): The heart of the dish, these classic noodles soak up the creamy sauce and hold everything together.
- Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): For sautéing veggies and adding a lovely depth of flavor right from the start.
- Onion (1 small, diced): Adds a mellow sweetness and aromatic base that shines through the sauce.
- Garlic Cloves (2, minced): A bright, punchy note that infuses the whole dish with irresistible aroma.
- Red Bell Pepper (1, diced): Pops of color and sweetness make every bite a little more interesting.
- Cooked Chicken (2 cups, shredded): Rotisserie or leftover chicken works great – juicy, tender protein that makes this a hearty meal.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup (10.5-ounce can): Lends creaminess and an earthy undertone to balance the cheese.
- Cream of Chicken Soup (10.5-ounce can): Adds extra richness and classic comforting flavor to the sauce.
- Chicken Broth (1 cup): Thins out the sauce just right without sacrificing any savory goodness.
- Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): For subtle warmth and a gentle, cozy hint of spice.
- Garlic Powder (1/2 teaspoon): Doubles down on garlicky flavor for extra oomph.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Brings everything together and lets the main flavors shine.
- Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds tiny bursts of heat in every bite.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, divided): Creamy, melty cheese is non-negotiable – save some for the top for that cheesy crust!
- Grated Parmesan Cheese (1/4 cup): A sharp, salty finish that turns the topping golden and irresistible.
- Chopped Parsley (optional, for garnish): A fresh, herby accent that makes your finished dish pop.
How to Make Chicken Spaghetti
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Give your 9×13-inch baking dish a quick spritz or swipe of oil so nothing sticks. This little move guarantees easy serving and those coveted crisp golden edges once your Chicken Spaghetti is done baking.
Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti
Bring a big pot of salted water to a rolling boil, then add the spaghetti. Cook until just al dente, following the package instructions, so the noodles stay pleasantly toothsome even after baking. Drain thoroughly and set aside, but don’t rinse – you want those starchy strands to soak up the creamy sauce later!
Step 3: Sauté the Veggies
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and bell pepper, sautéing for 4 to 5 minutes until they soften and release their sweet aroma. Stir in the minced garlic and cook just 30 seconds more – it should smell amazing but not burn!
Step 4: Make the Creamy Chicken Sauce
Add the shredded chicken straight into the skillet, followed by the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Give everything a careful but thorough stir, making sure all the flavors mingle. Bring to a gentle simmer to meld the ingredients together. Then, turn off the heat and stir in 1½ cups of the cheddar cheese so it gets melty and luscious.
Step 5: Combine with Pasta
Grab your pot of drained spaghetti and add it to the creamy chicken mixture. Toss well with tongs or a spatula, ensuring every strand is generously coated and studded with bits of chicken and veggies.
Step 6: Assemble and Bake
Pour your Chicken Spaghetti mixture into the prepped baking dish and smooth the top. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and all the Parmesan in an even blanket for that classic cheesy crust. Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, until it’s bubbling around the edges and gloriously golden on top.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, let your Chicken Spaghetti cool for a few minutes. Shower freshly chopped parsley over the top if you like a little green contrast. Now you’re ready to serve up big, satisfying scoops to friends and family!
How to Serve Chicken Spaghetti
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped parsley not only adds a fresh, herby flavor but also brightens up the rich, golden surface of your Chicken Spaghetti. A little extra grated Parmesan just before serving can send the cheesy factor into overdrive if that’s your style.
Side Dishes
This hearty dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad tossed in a zippy vinaigrette, or with crisp, buttery garlic bread that helps scoop up every last bit of the creamy sauce. For extra veggies, go for steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus on the side.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to mix things up, portion Chicken Spaghetti into individual ramekins for personal servings, or scoop it onto a platter and garnish with an extra shower of herbs and sliced red pepper for a party-ready centerpiece. It’s also fun served family-style from the baking dish, letting everyone dig in together!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Chicken Spaghetti tightly covered in the fridge for up to four days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making next-day lunches or dinners something to look forward to. Just make sure it’s cooled to room temperature before refrigerating.
Freezing
Chicken Spaghetti freezes exceptionally well, making it the perfect make-ahead meal. Transfer leftovers or even an unbaked dish to a freezer-safe container, tightly covered. It will keep for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, simply cover and warm in a 350°F oven until the center is hot and bubbly (about 20-25 minutes if refrigerated). For single servings, microwave with a splash of broth to keep it creamy. Stir halfway through to distribute the heat and restore its just-baked magic.
FAQs
Can I make Chicken Spaghetti ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the full dish and refrigerate it (unbaked) up to 24 hours in advance. When you’re ready, simply bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes since it’ll be starting from cold.
Can I use different cheeses in this recipe?
Definitely! While cheddar and Parmesan are classic, Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a Mexican cheese blend work wonderfully too. Use what you love or have on hand for your own flavor twist.
Is it possible to make Chicken Spaghetti gluten-free?
It’s easy to adapt! Simply use gluten-free spaghetti and seek out gluten-free versions of the cream soups. The taste and creamy comfort will still shine through.
What’s the best chicken to use for Chicken Spaghetti?
Rotisserie chicken is a true timesaver here, but any cooked and shredded chicken breast or thigh will do the trick. You can even use leftover grilled chicken for a little smoky depth.
Can I add vegetables or extras to the recipe?
Yes! Try mixing in sautéed mushrooms, chopped green chiles, or even peas for more color and nutrients. Chicken Spaghetti is wonderfully versatile and welcomes personal touches.
Final Thoughts
This creamy, cheesy, soul-satisfying Chicken Spaghetti has everything you could want in a comfort food classic. Whether it’s the star of a family dinner or the main attraction at your next potluck, it’s guaranteed to win hearts (and hungry appetites). Go ahead—give it a try, and watch it earn a spot in your recipe rotation!
Print
Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and creamy baked pasta dish, Chicken Spaghetti is a family favorite that’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying. This recipe combines tender spaghetti with a savory mix of shredded chicken, creamy soups, and gooey cheeses, all baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Spaghetti:
- 12 ounces spaghetti
Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish:
- Chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook spaghetti: Cook spaghetti until al dente; drain and set aside.
- Prepare sauce: Sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Add chicken, soups, broth, spices, and 1 1/2 cups cheddar. Combine with spaghetti.
- Bake: Transfer mixture to baking dish, top with remaining cheeses, and bake for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken works well in this recipe.
- You can customize with green chiles or Monterey Jack cheese.
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