Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Creamy, cheesy, and full of comforting flavor, this Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate crowd-pleasing dinner. Tender spaghetti is tossed with shredded chicken, a rich cream sauce, and gooey melted cheese, then baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping meals for the week, this easy casserole delivers hearty satisfaction in every bite.

Want recipes like this delivered straight to your inbox? Subscribe now to get the latest culinary creations you’ll love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Comfort Food Classic – Cheesy pasta and tender chicken are a match made in heaven.
Family Friendly – Mild, creamy flavors that kids and adults love.
Great for Leftovers – Tastes just as good (or better) the next day.
Freezer-Friendly – Perfect for prepping ahead.
Simple Pantry Staples – Made with easy, everyday ingredients.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Casserole:

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 small bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or leftovers work great)
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• ½ cup chicken broth or milk
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra flavor)

Optional Add-ins:

• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (for a kick)
• 1 cup chopped mushrooms
• 1 cup frozen peas or broccoli

Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large mixing bowl
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Skillet
• Whisk or spoon
• Oven

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente according to package directions.
3. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

1. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and bell pepper; sauté for 4–5 minutes until soft.
3. Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix the Casserole Filling

1. In a large bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth (or milk), Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir in the sautéed vegetables and shredded chicken.
3. Add 1½ cups cheddar cheese, mozzarella, and cooked spaghetti. Mix everything until evenly combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Pour the chicken spaghetti mixture into the dish and spread evenly.
4. Top with remaining ½ cup cheddar cheese and Parmesan (if using).

Step 5: Bake and Serve

1. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden around the edges.
2. Let cool for 5–10 minutes before serving.
3. Garnish with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.

Tips for the Best Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Use Al Dente Pasta – Slightly undercooked spaghetti holds up better during baking.
Shred Cheese Fresh – Freshly shredded cheese melts creamier than pre-shredded.
Add Veggies – Sneak in chopped spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms for added nutrition.
Make it Spicy – Stir in hot sauce or red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Double It – This recipe doubles easily to feed a crowd or fill your freezer.

Serving Suggestions
Garlic Bread – Crunchy, buttery bread is a must alongside cheesy pasta.
Side Salad – A fresh green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness.
Steamed Veggies – Broccoli or green beans make great, simple sides.
Fruit Salad – A light and sweet pairing for this hearty casserole.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Let cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating:
Oven: Reheat covered at 350°F for 20–25 minutes until hot.
Microwave: Heat individual portions in 30-second intervals until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use different pasta?
   Yes! Penne, rotini, or fettuccine all work well in place of spaghetti.
2. Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
   Absolutely. Assemble, cover tightly, and freeze unbaked. Thaw overnight and bake as directed.
3. Can I make it without canned soup?
   You can make homemade cream sauces using butter, flour, broth, and milk as a substitute.
4. What’s the best chicken to use?
   Shredded rotisserie chicken is easiest, but any cooked chicken breast or thigh will work.
5. Can I make it gluten-free?
   Yes—use gluten-free pasta and ensure your soups are gluten-free.

Final Thoughts
Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with comforting flavor, this Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is everything you want in a cozy dinner. It’s simple enough for weeknights but satisfying enough to serve at family gatherings or potlucks. With easy prep and big flavor, it’s sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation.

Try it out and let me know what you think! Don’t forget to leave a review below and share your photos on Pinterest! I can’t wait to see your cheesy masterpiece.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 480 | Protein: 28g | Carbohydrates: 38g | Fat: 25g | Fiber: 3g | Sodium: 760mg

Print