Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Recipe

Are you craving a comfort meal that’s hearty, flavorful, and easy to make? Look no further than chicken spaghetti—a classic dish that combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked spaghetti, and a creamy, cheesy sauce that’s indulgent without being overwhelming. This recipe will teach you how to make the perfect chicken spaghetti, step-by-step, ensuring that even beginner home cooks can create a dish that looks as good as it tastes.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a potluck, or just a satisfying weeknight meal, this recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Not only will you learn how to master this dish, but you’ll also discover tips for elevating it to the next level. Grab your ingredients, and let's get cooking!

What Makes Chicken Spaghetti a Favorite?

From its creamy texture to its bold flavors, chicken spaghetti is more than just a pasta dish—it’s comfort food at its finest. This Southern-inspired dish stands out because it’s not your traditional spaghetti with marinara. Instead, it's a rich casserole loaded with layers of flavor that meld together perfectly when baked.

The appeal of chicken spaghetti lies in its versatility—you can customize the recipe to suit your preferences by adding vegetables, spice, or different kinds of cheese. Plus, it’s an amazing make-ahead and freezer-friendly meal for busy weeks.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need to craft the perfect chicken spaghetti. Most of these staples are pantry-friendly and easy to find at your local grocery store.

Base Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great for convenience)
• 8 oz spaghetti (half a standard package; break it in half for easy mixing)

Sauce:

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 ½ cups chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar for flavor, but any melting cheese works)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 small onion, diced
• ½ green bell pepper, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced

Flavor Enhancers:

• 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp paprika (optional, for a smoky touch)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Toppings:

• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for a gooey, bubbly top)
• Optional garnish: Fresh chopped parsley

How to Make Chicken Spaghetti

This straightforward recipe is foolproof if you follow these simple steps. It combines stovetop cooking with oven baking for a perfect finish.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti

• Boil the spaghetti in a large pot of salted water until al dente, usually about 8–10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

• Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic until softened (about 3–4 minutes).
• Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and chicken broth. Mix until smooth.
• Add the shredded cheddar cheese and season with Italian seasoning, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese melts and everything is well incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Spaghetti

• Add the cooked, shredded chicken and spaghetti into the sauce. Toss gently until everything is coated evenly in the creamy mixture.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

• Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish and spread it out evenly.
• Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
• Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

• Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the ultimate comforting chicken spaghetti!

Tips for Perfect Chicken Spaghetti

• Choose High-Quality Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better and gives a more creamy texture. Avoid pre-shredded cheese if possible.
• Amp Up the Veggies: Toss in some cooked mushrooms, peas, or even diced tomatoes for added flavor and color.
• Make It Your Own: For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper.
• Use Rotisserie Chicken: Save time without sacrificing flavor by using store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Family-Friendly: It’s kid-approved and loved by adults—perfect for any dinner table.
2. Great for Leftovers: This dish reheats beautifully, making it excellent for meal prep.
3. Minimal Cleanup: All you need are a skillet, pot, and casserole dish.
4. Customizable: You have full control over the ingredients to suit dietary needs or preferences.

FAQs About Chicken Spaghetti

Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! Assemble the spaghetti and sauce in the casserole dish but hold off on the baking. Cover it with foil and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready.

Is This Recipe Freezer-Friendly?

Yes! Freeze the assembled (but unbaked) casserole by wrapping it in plastic wrap and foil. It’ll last up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

What Other Cheeses Can I Use?

Feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even Pepper Jack for a zesty twist.

Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?

Simply swap out the regular spaghetti for a gluten-free version and check that your cream soups are labeled gluten-free.

Bring Comfort to Your Table Today

Chicken spaghetti is more than just a dish—it’s a warm hug in a bowl. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a recipe you’ll find yourself making again and again. Follow the steps above, and you’ll have a meal that’s not only easy to prepare but loved by all.

Feeling inspired to elevate your home cooking? Make this chicken spaghetti recipe today and bring a touch of warmth and comfort to your dining table.