Introduction
Chicken Spaghetti is the ultimate comfort food—a perfect combination of tender chicken, creamy cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. This crowd-favorite dish is packed with flavor and always a hit at family dinners, potlucks, or cozy weeknight meals. Simple yet satisfying, this recipe is guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen.
A Dish with a Story
This classic casserole has deep roots in Southern cuisine, dating back to the 1950s when easy, hearty meals became popular. Over time, home cooks have added their own creative touches, making Chicken Spaghetti a beloved dish across generations. This version keeps the nostalgic charm while enhancing it with fresh ingredients and bold flavors.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie works well)
- 12 oz (340g) spaghetti, cooked and drained
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10 oz) Ro-Tel diced tomatoes and green chilies
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- ½ cup diced onion
- ½ cup diced green bell pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
Optional Additions:
- ½ cup sliced mushrooms for extra depth
- ½ cup cooked, crumbled bacon for a smoky touch
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce for a spicy kick
- ½ cup parmesan cheese for extra cheesiness
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Tips for Success
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: It saves time and adds rich flavor.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: The spaghetti continues cooking in the oven, so don’t overcook.
- Shred Cheese Fresh: It melts better and enhances the dish’s creaminess.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to mix in zucchini, carrots, or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Let It Rest: After baking, let the dish sit for 5-10 minutes to thicken and develop more flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare for Baking
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a thin layer of oil.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add diced onions and bell peppers, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until soft and fragrant.
3. Create the Sauce
- In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Cream of chicken soup
- Cream of mushroom soup
- Ro-Tel tomatoes
- Garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt
- Stir until smooth and well blended.
4. Mix It All Together
- Add the cooked spaghetti, shredded chicken, sautéed vegetables, and 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce.
- Stir until all ingredients are evenly coated.
5. Assemble & Bake
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
6. Serve & Enjoy
- Remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
What Makes This Dish Special?
This Chicken Spaghetti is irresistibly creamy, cheesy, and packed with bold flavors from the Ro-Tel tomatoes and green chilies. The combination of tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta makes every bite comforting and delicious.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approx. 6 Servings)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Sugar: 4g
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare – Perfect for busy weeknights.
- Great for Leftovers – Tastes even better the next day.
- Customizable – Add veggies, spice, or extra cheese to make it your own.
- Crowd-Pleaser – A guaranteed hit for gatherings and potlucks.
Perfect Pairings
- Fresh Green Salad – A crisp contrast to the creamy pasta.
- Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up the cheesy sauce.
- Steamed Vegetables – Add a side of broccoli, green beans, or asparagus for balance.
Healthier Variations
- Swap Pasta – Use whole wheat or gluten-free spaghetti.
- Lighten the Sauce – Use low-fat soups and cheese.
- Boost Nutrition – Add more veggies like zucchini, carrots, or spinach.
Enjoy !