Introduction
There’s nothing quite like a warm, cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole to bring comfort to the dinner table. This hearty dish combines tender shredded chicken, al dente spaghetti, and a creamy, flavorful sauce topped with melted cheddar cheese—making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week, this Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is easy to make, endlessly customizable, and packed with deliciousness.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from why this dish is a must-try to step-by-step instructions, expert tips, and answers to common questions. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
This Chicken Spaghetti Casserole isn’t just another pasta dish—it’s a creamy, savory masterpiece that stands out for several reasons:
- Easy to make – With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginners can nail this recipe.
- Family-friendly – Kids and adults alike will devour the cheesy, comforting flavors.
- Meal-prep friendly – Stays fresh for days and reheats beautifully.
- Customizable – Swap ingredients to fit dietary needs or personal tastes.
Additionally, the combination of cream of mushroom and chicken soups creates a rich, velvety texture, while sour cream adds a tangy depth of flavor.
Step-by-Step Guide to the Best Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients and Tools
Before diving in, make sure you have everything ready:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 8 oz spaghetti, cooked and drained
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup diced onion
- ½ cup diced bell pepper
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Tools Needed:
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Skillet
- Wooden spoon
Step 2: Cooking and Preparing the Casserole
Follow these steps for a perfectly creamy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your baking dish.
- Sauté the veggies – Heat olive oil in a skillet, then cook onions and bell peppers until soft (about 5 minutes).
- Mix the base – In a large bowl, combine chicken, spaghetti, soups, sour cream, broth, seasonings, and 1 cup of cheese.
- Add veggies – Stir in the sautéed onions and peppers.
- Assemble – Transfer the mixture to the baking dish and top with the remaining cheese.
Step 3: Baking to Perfection
Bake for 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving—this helps the flavors meld together.
Tips for Making the Best Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Want to take your Chicken Spaghetti Casserole to the next level? Try these expert tips:
- Use rotisserie chicken for extra flavor and convenience.
- Undercook the pasta slightly—it will finish cooking in the oven.
- Add veggies like mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Swap cheeses—try mozzarella or pepper jack for a twist.
Moreover, if you prefer a crispy top, broil for the last 2-3 minutes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Preparing Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Even the best recipes can go wrong if you’re not careful. Avoid these pitfalls:
Overcooking the pasta – It turns mushy when baked.
Skipping the resting time – Letting it sit ensures the perfect texture.
Using low-fat dairy – Full-fat sour cream and cheese give the best richness.
On the other hand, if you want a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
FAQs About Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Q: Can I make Chicken Spaghetti Casserole ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Assemble it, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Q: How do I store and reheat leftovers?
A: Keep in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven (350°F for 15-20 mins) or microwave.
Q: Can I freeze this casserole?
A: Yes! Freeze before baking, then thaw and cook as directed.
Q: What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
A: Use cream of celery or a homemade white sauce.
Conclusion
This Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a potluck, it’s a guaranteed hit.
Print
Ultimate Chicken Spaghetti Casserole: A Creamy, Comforting Family Favorite
- Total Time: 55 mins
Description
Indulge in this creamy and comforting Chicken Spaghetti Casserole. This hearty dish is perfect for family dinners and is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
8 oz spaghetti, cooked and drained
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup diced onion
1/2 cup diced bell pepper
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked spaghetti, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Stir in the sautéed onion and bell pepper, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Top with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!
Prep Time: 20 minutes
