If you’re anything like me, you probably cherish a meal that brings comfort, warmth, and joy to the entire family. That’s exactly what this Chicken Spaghetti recipe did when I made it last weekend. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor in every bite.

Plus, it’s easy to whip up and perfect for any gathering! Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or hosting a potluck, this dish leaves everyone reaching for seconds.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to make this delicious dish. All items are measured to serve 6 people.

Spaghetti: 12 oz
Cooked Chicken: 2–3 cups (shredded)
Cream of Mushroom Soup: 1 can (10.5 oz)
Diced Tomatoes and Green Chilies: 1 can (10 oz)
Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups (shredded)
Chicken Broth: 1 cup
Onion: 1 small (chopped)
Bell Pepper: 1 cup (diced)
Garlic: 2 cloves (minced)
Olive Oil: 1 tbsp
Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and paprika (to taste)

Note: This recipe makes enough to serve 6 hearty portions.

Variations

Make this dish your own by tweaking it with these simple variations!

Dairy-Free: Substitute regular cheese with a vegan alternative and use coconut cream instead of the cream of mushroom soup.
Low-Calorie: Opt for whole-grain spaghetti and reduced-fat cheese to reduce calorie intake.
Extra Veggies: Add spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini, similar to this spaghetti alla nerano (spaghetti with zucchini recipe), for a more hearty and nutritious dish.
Make It Spicy: If you enjoy a bit of heat, you can also enjoy this spicy chicken spaghetti recipe for a bold, flavorful twist.

Cooking Time

Total Time: 45 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes

Equipment You Need

Make your cooking experience hassle-free with the right tools. Here’s what you’ll need and why:

Large Pot – For boiling spaghetti to perfection.
Skillet – To sauté your veggies and build the creamy sauce.
Mixing Bowl – Ideal for combining ingredients evenly.
Casserole Dish – A 9×13 inch dish works perfectly for baking.
Sharp Knife – To chop vegetables and cooked chicken effortlessly.
Whisk or Stirring Spoon – Ensures a smooth, lump-free sauce.

How to Make Chicken Spaghetti?

Making Chicken Spaghetti is a breeze, even for beginners. The best part? It’s all in just a few steps!

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your spaghetti until it’s al dente (firm yet cooked). This usually takes about 9-11 minutes. Once done, drain the water and set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion, diced bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté everything for about 4-5 minutes until the vegetables turn soft and fragrant. This step adds a delightful base of flavor to the dish.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Lower the heat to medium and stir in the cream of mushroom soup, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and chicken broth. Sprinkle in salt, pepper, and paprika, then whisk everything until the sauce becomes thick and smooth. This should take 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Combine and Mix

Now, add the cooked spaghetti, shredded chicken, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese directly into the skillet. Mix everything well, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish. Spread it evenly, then sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, take the casserole out of the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes. Serve warm and enjoy the cheesy, comforting goodness of your Chicken Spaghetti!

If you love baked dishes, you can also explore a similar chicken spaghetti casserole recipe, which is just as comforting and hearty

Credit: thereciperebel

How to Serve Chicken Spaghetti?

For the perfect dining experience, serve your dish with these ideas:

Serve in style by plating individual portions and sprinkling extra cheese on top for a decadent presentation.
Garnish creatively with fresh parsley, cilantro, or even crispy fried onions for added texture and color.
Pair it with sides like garlic bread, a simple green salad, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. Alternatively, you might enjoy complementing it with a bowl of spaghetti and meatball soup for a unique twist!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a brief breakdown of the nutrition per serving:

Calories: 450
Protein: 30 g
Carbohydrates: 33 g
Fat: 18 g

Make Ahead and Storage

Planning ahead? No problem! Chicken Spaghetti is easy to make ahead of time, and it stores beautifully.

Prepare the dish up to the baking step, then cover it tightly with foil or cling wrap. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes since it’s coming from the fridge.

For leftovers, store them in an airtight container and refrigerate for 3 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave and add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some helpful tips I picked up while making this dish:

Pre-Cook the Chicken: Rotisserie or leftover chicken saves both time and effort.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Stop boiling just before al dente since it’ll cook more while baking.
Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Skip pre-shredded cheese for a better melt and fresher flavor.
Spice it Up: Experiment with Cajun seasoning or a splash of hot sauce for extra flair.
Keep it Moist: Avoid over-baking, or the dish may dry out. Remove from the oven as soon as the cheese is bubbly.

How to Store and Reuse Leftovers?

Chicken Spaghetti stores beautifully and can be reused in creative ways. Here’s how:

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheat Gently: Use the oven (at 350°F) or microwave to warm leftovers. For moisture, add a splash of chicken broth before reheating.

Credit: thereciperebel

Creative Leftover Ideas

Turn leftovers into mini casseroles, stuffing for bell peppers, or use it as a filling for toasted sandwiches.

Can I Make Chicken Spaghetti Ahead of Time?

Yes, preparing Chicken Spaghetti ahead of time is a fantastic option for busy schedules. To do this, assemble the dish in your casserole dish as instructed, but don’t bake it yet. Instead, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

When you’re ready to serve, simply remove the wrap and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to account for the chilled temperature. This method saves time and ensures a stress-free meal!

What Can I Use Instead of Canned Soup?

If you’d like a healthier or homemade alternative to canned soup, a simple cream sauce works perfectly. Make your own by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan, whisking in 2 tablespoons of flour, and slowly adding 1 cup of milk.

Stir constantly until it thickens into a smooth, creamy sauce. This base is free from preservatives and allows you to control the flavor by adding spices like garlic powder or paprika. It’s easy to prepare and complements the dish beautifully.

Can I Make It Spicy?

Absolutely! Adding a spicy twist to Chicken Spaghetti is easy and can be customized to suit any palate. For a medium kick, toss in some diced jalapeños or green chilies. If you’re a fan of bolder flavors, mix in hot sauce or use red chili flakes for added heat.

Adjust the quantity of spice to match your spice tolerance, starting with a small amount and increasing as needed. This simple addition transforms the dish into a fiery, flavor-packed meal perfect for spice lovers.