If hearty, ooey-gooey comfort food is calling your name, this Cheesy Spaghetti Chicken Casserole Recipe is about to become your new weeknight hero. Imagine swirls of tender spaghetti nestled with juicy chicken, all smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce—then baked until gloriously golden and bubbling. The beauty of this casserole lies in its simplicity, crowd-pleasing flavor, and just how effortlessly it comes together. Whether you’re feeding your family, meal prepping, or hosting hungry friends, there’s nothing quite as soul-satisfying as a bubbly tray of Cheesy Spaghetti Chicken Casserole Recipe pulled straight from the oven!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredient list might look humble, but every element works overtime to deliver rich flavor, creamy texture, and irresistible color. There’s no need for fancy items—just familiar fridge and pantry staples that join forces in the most delicious way!
- Spaghetti: Broken in half for easy mixing, classic spaghetti soaks up all that creamy sauce.
- Butter: Adds richness and helps the onions turn sweet and golden.
- Yellow onion: Diced onion builds a tasty foundation and brings subtle sweetness.
- Garlic: Just two cloves add aromatic depth—don’t skip it!
- Cooked shredded chicken: Quick and convenient, rotisserie chicken works beautifully here.
- Cream of chicken soup: The ultimate shortcut for a creamy base—use your favorite brand.
- Sour cream: Offers a silky cool tang that balances all the savory flavors.
- Chicken broth: Loosens the sauce and carries the flavors through every bite.
- Italian seasoning: A small sprinkle gives just enough herby aroma and color.
- Black pepper: Freshly ground is best for that gentle touch of heat.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Bold and melty, cheddar gives the casserole its signature, cheesy pull.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top, it forms a golden, savory crust.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: For those irresistible, stretchy cheese moments.
- Fresh parsley (optional): A pop of green to finish—garnish just before serving.
How to Make Cheesy Spaghetti Chicken Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Boil the Spaghetti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, then add your spaghetti—broken in half so it fits neatly in the casserole. Cook until just al dente (remember, it will bake further in the oven) and drain well. Set aside while you gather the rest of your ingredients.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it softens and turns slightly golden. Toss in the minced garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant—now your kitchen should smell absolutely delicious!
Step 3: Mix Up the Creamy Sauce
In a roomy mixing bowl, combine your cooked shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and most of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is well blended and impossibly creamy.
Step 4: Bring Everything Together
Gently add your cooked spaghetti and the buttery sautéed onions and garlic to the cheesy chicken mixture. Fold with a spatula until every noodle is coated with sauce and all the flavors start mingling. This is where you’ll be tempted to sneak a taste!
Step 5: Assemble and Top
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella over the top—this creates that gorgeous cheesy crust everyone loves.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Slide your casserole into a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven and bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese topping is melted, bubbling, and just the right shade of golden brown. Let it rest for five minutes so it sets up beautifully before you dive in.
How to Serve Cheesy Spaghetti Chicken Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A finishing sprinkle of fresh, chopped parsley adds color and a touch of freshness that wakes up every bite. If you’re feeling extra, a little extra black pepper or crushed red pepper flakes never hurts for a hint of heat!
Side Dishes
Cheesy Spaghetti Chicken Casserole Recipe pairs up wonderfully with a crisp, green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette, or a side of steamed or roasted vegetables for balance. A slice of warm garlic bread will soak up all that glorious cheesy sauce—highly recommended!
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party twist, portion the casserole into individual ramekins before baking. Or, serve hearty scoops on a bed of wilted spinach for extra veggies. Fresh basil leaves or a drizzle of good olive oil just before serving also look and taste fantastic.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover casserole keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply cover the dish tightly with foil or transfer portions to an airtight container. The flavors actually deepen after a night in the fridge!
Freezing
This is a freezer superstar! Assemble the Cheesy Spaghetti Chicken Casserole Recipe up through the step just before baking, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
Reheating
To reheat, cover and bake leftovers at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Individual portions can be microwaved, but covering with a damp paper towel will keep the pasta moist and prevent it from drying out.
FAQs
Can I substitute other types of pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is classic, you can swap in linguine, penne, or rotini—just make sure to cook any pasta shape to just al dente since it will continue baking.
What can I add to boost vegetables or flavor?
Stir in chopped spinach, sautéed mushrooms, peas, or even roasted red peppers for extra color and nutrition. You can also add a pinch of crushed red pepper or smoked paprika for a fun flavor twist.
Is it possible to make Cheesy Spaghetti Chicken Casserole Recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use your favorite gluten-free spaghetti and be sure to grab a gluten-free cream of chicken soup so everyone can partake in the comforting goodness.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Rotisserie chicken is actually perfect for this recipe! It makes the prep lightning fast while ensuring the chicken stays juicy and flavorful.
Would the recipe work with other cheeses?
Of course! For a different twist on Cheesy Spaghetti Chicken Casserole Recipe, try Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or pepper Jack. Mixing cheeses gives even more melty flavor and fun.
Final Thoughts
If you’re seeking that just-right combination of creamy, cheesy, and comforting, this Cheesy Spaghetti Chicken Casserole Recipe can’t be beat. It’s the kind of meal you’ll crave on busy nights or when company calls. Give it a spot at your table and watch as it quickly disappears—happy cooking!
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Cheesy Spaghetti Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Cheesy Spaghetti Chicken Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that the whole family will love. With tender spaghetti, savory shredded chicken, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, this casserole is perfect for a cozy dinner night.
Ingredients
Spaghetti:
- 12 oz spaghetti, broken in half
Chicken Mixture:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Cheese Topping:
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook Spaghetti: Cook spaghetti in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: In a skillet, sauté onion in butter until soft. Add garlic and cook briefly.
- Mix Chicken Mixture: Combine cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, seasoning, pepper, and cheddar cheese in a bowl. Mix in spaghetti and sautéed onions.
- Bake Casserole: Transfer mixture to a baking dish. Top with Parmesan and mozzarella. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Notes
- You can add chopped spinach, mushrooms, or peas for extra veggies.
- This dish freezes well—assemble ahead and freeze before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 690 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
