Creamy Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole: Your Ultimate Easy Weeknight Dinner
Searching for a meal that promises comfort, convenience, and crowd-pleasing flavor? Look no further than this delightful Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole. This recipe delivers a harmonious blend of tender chicken, al dente spaghetti, and a lusciously creamy three-cheese sauce, all baked together into a golden, bubbly masterpiece. It’s the kind of hearty dish that makes a perfect weeknight dinner, satisfying even the pickiest eaters, and incredibly, it comes together in just around 35 minutes of active cooking and baking time!
Imagine a dish so rich and flavorful, yet so simple to prepare that it quickly becomes a staple in your recipe rotation. This chicken spaghetti is exactly that. Its robust flavors and comforting texture are a welcome treat, offering warmth and satisfaction in every forkful. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, you’ll appreciate the straightforward steps and accessible ingredients that make this casserole an absolute winner.
Why This Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Will Become Your New Favorite
This isn’t just another chicken and pasta dish; it’s a carefully crafted blend of textures and tastes designed for maximum enjoyment and minimal effort. The secret lies in its irresistible combination of components, making it a standout weeknight meal or a fantastic option for meal prepping.
At the heart of this casserole is a luxurious three-cheese mixture, creating an incredibly rich and gooey experience. We use cream cheese for its unparalleled creaminess, sharp cheddar for a tangy depth of flavor, and mozzarella to achieve that classic, irresistible cheese pull. This trio ensures every bite is packed with cheesy goodness. Paired with perfectly cooked spaghetti noodles and succulent chicken, all bathed in a flavorful sauce, you get a casserole that’s both hearty and incredibly satisfying.
Beyond its delicious taste, this recipe truly shines in its simplicity. Many of the ingredients are kitchen staples you likely already have on hand, meaning fewer trips to the grocery store. It’s an easy mash-up that transforms everyday items into something extraordinary. Plus, its casserole format makes it excellent for feeding a crowd or for enjoying as leftovers throughout the week. For even greater convenience, this chicken spaghetti casserole is incredibly freezer-friendly. Prepare it ahead of time, freeze it, and simply bake it when you’re ready for a warm, comforting meal with virtually no fuss. It’s a lifesaver on those extra busy evenings!
While we cherish a heaping scoop of classic spaghetti and meatballs, sometimes it’s fun to switch things up. This cheesy chicken spaghetti offers a delightful twist, delivering a fresh, creamy, and zesty flavor profile that’s distinct and equally comforting.
RELATED: You might also love this recipe – Creamy Chicken Alfredo
Essential Ingredients for Your Creamy Chicken Spaghetti
Creating this delicious casserole requires a handful of accessible ingredients that work together to build its incredible flavor. Below is a visual overview, and you can find all exact measurements, specific ingredients, and detailed instructions in the printable recipe card located at the end of this post.
Ingredient Spotlight & Smart Substitutions
Let’s dive a little deeper into the key ingredients for this chicken spaghetti recipe and explore some helpful substitution suggestions to suit your preferences or what you have on hand.
NOODLES – This recipe specifically calls for thin spaghetti noodles, which are fantastic because their delicate structure allows them to soak up all the rich, creamy sauce beautifully, ensuring maximum flavor in every strand. However, don’t feel limited! You can certainly try this casserole with other pasta types. Linguine or fettuccine would work well for a similar long noodle experience, or for a chunkier, more scoopable casserole, consider using elbow macaroni, penne, or rotini. Just ensure whatever pasta you choose is cooked slightly al dente, as it will continue to cook and absorb liquid in the oven.
CHICKEN – We recommend 2 1/2 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into uniform pieces. This ensures even cooking and tender results. However, this recipe is incredibly versatile and shines with pre-cooked chicken! If you have leftover rotisserie chicken, shredded chicken, or even canned chicken (drained), feel free to use it. This not only saves time but also adds another layer of flavor and makes the recipe even quicker. If using raw chicken, remember to season it well while cooking to build a strong flavor base for the casserole.
CHEESES – The three-cheese blend (cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and mozzarella) is crucial for the casserole’s signature creaminess and flavor. Cream cheese adds a rich tang and helps create the silky sauce, sharp cheddar provides a robust, savory note, and mozzarella delivers that delightful stringy texture when melted. Feel free to use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt and flavor, or opt for convenient pre-shredded cheese. You can experiment with other cheeses too, such as Monterey Jack for a milder flavor, Colby Jack, or even a blend of Mexican cheeses for a slight kick.
ROTEL – Diced tomatoes with green chiles (like Rotel) are a game-changer in this recipe, adding a fantastic zesty kick and a subtle warmth that elevates the entire dish. They contribute both flavor and moisture without making the casserole watery. If you prefer a milder flavor or want to use fresh ingredients, you can substitute Rotel with finely diced fresh tomatoes and a small amount of finely chopped green chiles, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.
AROMATICS & FLOUR – The diced yellow onion, green pepper, and minced garlic form the aromatic foundation of the sauce, providing depth and complexity. The all-purpose flour is essential for creating the roux, which thickens the sauce to a perfect, rich consistency. Don’t skip cooking out the raw flour taste!
How to Make This Irresistibly Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Crafting this comforting casserole is a straightforward process, broken down into logical steps that ensure a delicious outcome every time. The key is building flavors layer by layer, from perfectly cooked chicken to a creamy, zesty sauce that coats every strand of spaghetti. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a heartwarming meal ready to enjoy in no time. For a complete list of ingredients with precise measurements and a printable version of this recipe, please refer to the recipe card below.
These step-by-step photos and instructions are here to help you visualize how to make this recipe. You can Jump to Recipe to get the printable version of this recipe, complete with measurements and instructions at the bottom.
- Prepare the Pasta: Begin by cooking your spaghetti according to the package directions, but aim for slightly before al dente. This means it should still have a good bite to it. Draining it a bit early is crucial because the pasta will continue to cook and absorb the delicious sauce while baking in the oven. This prevents it from becoming mushy and ensures it soaks up all the flavorful juices. Once cooked, return the drained spaghetti to its pot.
- Cook the Chicken: While the pasta water is boiling, pre-heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Dice the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into uniform 1/2-inch cubes. In a large 12-inch skillet, melt the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken along with your poultry seasoning. Cook the chicken for about 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s fully cooked through and lightly browned. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set it aside, making sure to leave any flavorful liquid or fond behind in the pan – this will be the base for your sauce.
- Sauté Aromatics and Make the Roux: Using the same skillet with the leftover liquid, add the diced onion and green pepper. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften and become fragrant. Next, add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds to 1 minute until aromatic. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Now, dust the vegetables with all-purpose flour and mix thoroughly, stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. The mixture will thicken and coat the vegetables, forming a roux.
- Develop the Creamy Sauce: Slowly add the chicken stock to the skillet, about 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously between each pour. Wait for the roux to fully incorporate the liquid and thicken before adding more. This gradual process ensures a smooth, lump-free sauce. Once all the chicken stock has been incorporated and the sauce is thick, stir in the can of Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chiles) and the room temperature cream cheese. Mix vigorously until the cream cheese has fully melted and the sauce is completely smooth and creamy.
- Combine and Bake: In the still-warm pasta pot, combine the cooked spaghetti, the diced chicken, and the freshly made creamy sauce. Stir everything together until the pasta and chicken are thoroughly coated in the rich sauce. Transfer this mixture into a prepared casserole dish. Evenly top the casserole with the shredded mozzarella and sharp cheddar cheeses. Bake in the pre-heated oven for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly, but not yet browned. You want the cheese to be perfectly gooey.
- Garnish and Serve: Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the sauce set slightly. For a burst of fresh color and flavor, garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley and an optional sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Chicken Spaghetti
Here are some common questions and expert tips to help you master this delicious cheesy chicken spaghetti casserole and make it even more convenient for your lifestyle.
Absolutely! This dish freezes exceptionally well, making it an ideal candidate for meal prep. To freeze, assemble the chicken spaghetti in an airtight, freezer-safe container or a disposable aluminum pan *before* melting the cheeses in the oven. Allow the casserole to cool completely if it’s already warm. Once cooled and covered tightly, freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, you can often cook it directly from frozen if you’re using a freezer-to-oven safe casserole dish (though it will take longer). If not, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking. Bake at 350°F (175°C) until it’s hot, bubbly, and the cheese on top is perfectly melted and golden.
Store any leftover chicken spaghetti in an airtight container or a sealed Ziploc bag in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3-4 days. When reheating, you can use a microwave, or for best results, warm it in the oven. If it seems a little dry, add a splash of chicken stock or milk before reheating to restore its creaminess.
Yes, absolutely! While Rotel offers a convenient and consistent flavor, you can certainly switch out the canned ingredients for fresh ones if that’s your preference. Use finely diced fresh Roma tomatoes and finely minced fresh green chiles (such as jalapeños or poblanos, depending on your desired heat level). You might want to sauté the fresh chiles with the onions and bell peppers to soften them and enhance their flavor.
Yes, you can assemble the entire casserole, including the cheese topping, up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit on the counter for about 20-30 minutes to come closer to room temperature before placing it in the preheated oven. You might need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if it’s still quite cold from the refrigerator.
To boost the nutritional value and flavor, consider adding other vegetables to your chicken spaghetti. Sliced mushrooms, sautéed with the onions and peppers, would be a fantastic addition. Spinach or frozen peas can be stirred into the sauce just before combining with the pasta and chicken. Diced carrots or celery could also be sautéed with the aromatics for extra crunch and sweetness.
Delicious Serving Suggestions for Chicken Spaghetti
This cheesy chicken spaghetti is undeniably a hearty and filling meal all on its own, designed to satisfy even the biggest appetites. However, pairing it with the right side dishes can elevate your dining experience and create a well-rounded feast. It pairs perfectly with a variety of simple yet complementary accompaniments.
For a classic combination, serve your chicken spaghetti with a side of warm, crusty homemade Italian bread or irresistible garlic bread. These are excellent for soaking up any extra delicious sauce. A fresh, crisp green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette makes a wonderful counterpoint to the rich casserole, adding a refreshing crunch and balance to the meal. You could also opt for steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or asparagus for added nutrients and color.
To enhance the presentation and flavor, consider topping your spaghetti with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a touch of vibrancy, and a dusting of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of savory depth. This casserole truly shines during the cooler months, offering comforting warmth that sticks to your bones, but its deliciousness knows no season – it’s a fantastic meal to serve year-round. After all, how can you go wrong with perfectly saucy pasta?
More Comforting Casserole Recipes to Try
If you loved this chicken spaghetti casserole, you’re in for a treat! Casseroles are the ultimate comfort food, offering easy preparation and hearty results. Explore more of our favorite family-friendly casserole recipes:
- Hearty Taco Casserole
- Southwest Ground Beef Casserole
- Classic John Wayne Casserole
- Zesty Mexican Chicken Casserole
- Comforting Chicken and Dumpling Casserole
- Creamy Macaroni and Cheese Casserole with Ham and Peas
- Classic Chicken Tetrazzini
- Indulgent Million Dollar Spaghetti
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Chicken Spaghetti
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Ingredients
- 16 oz thin spaghetti
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 2 Tbsp butter
- 2 ½ lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 Tbsp poultry seasoning
- 1 yellow onion small, diced
- 1 green pepper diced
- 2 tsp minced garlic
- 2 Tbsp all purpose flour
- 1 ½ cup chicken stock
- 10 oz rotel with chiles
- 4 oz cream cheese at room temperature
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar
Things You’ll Need
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13×9 baking dish
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Large skillet
Before You Begin
- Store leftovers in an air tight container kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
- You may use freshly shredded cheese or opt for bagged pre-shredded cheese.
Instructions
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Start by cooking your pasta according to box instructions, but draining a bit before al dente. The pasta will continue to cook in the oven and we want it to soak up all the juices. Return the cooked spaghetti to the pot.
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While the water is boiling for the pasta, pre-heat the oven to 350F. Dice chicken breasts into 1/2 inch cubes. Add the olive oil and butter to a large 12 inch skillet and melt. Add the diced chicken and seasoning to the skillet. Cook the chicken about 7 minutes until cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside, leaving behind the liquid.
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Add the onion and pepper to the skillet and saute for about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and saute for 30 seconds to 1 minute. Dust the skillet with flour and mix to cook out the raw flour until mixture is thickened.
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Slowly add 1/2 cup at a time of chicken stock to form the roux, stirring between pours and waiting for the roux to thicken each time. After all the chicken stock has been incorporated, add the can of Rotel and room temperature cream cheese. Mix until cream cheese has fully melted.
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In the still warm pasta pot, combine the pasta, chicken, and sauce. Stir well and transfer to a casserole dish. Top with shredded cheeses and bake for 15 minutes until cheese is melted but not browned.
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Top with optional fresh parsley and parmesan cheese for garnish.
Nutrition
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.