If you are searching for a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that brings all the flavors of home into one irresistible dish, look no further than this Ultimate Chicken Spaghetti Recipe. It combines tender chicken, creamy sauces, vibrant veggies, and perfectly cooked spaghetti, all baked under a gooey, golden blanket of cheese. Every forkful is bursting with rich, savory goodness and a little touch of spice, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or a hearty dish to bring to potlucks. Believe me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, yet essential ingredients is key to creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures in this dish. Each item plays its part, from the creamy soups adding luscious body, to the cheeses that give you that ooey-gooey finish. Don’t worry—these everyday staples come together to create something simply spectacular.
- 12 oz spaghetti: Cooked al dente, it forms the comforting base that soaks up all the delicious sauce.
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken: Adds tender protein and heartiness to the dish.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Used for sautéing vegetables and enriching the sauce.
- 1 small onion, diced: Brings sweetness and depth once softened.
- 1 small green bell pepper, diced: Adds a subtle crunch and fresh, mild flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Elevates the dish with aromatic intensity.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: Provides a savory, creamy base to the sauce.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup: Adds earthiness and richness that rounds out the flavors.
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel tomatoes, drained: Introduces a gentle zing and color, balancing creaminess with brightness.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Thins the sauce just enough and boosts the chicken flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that lifts the entire dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Gives a subtle smoky warmth and beautiful color.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors neatly.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just a touch of bite without overpowering.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into perfect gooey pockets for cheesy satisfaction.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Makes the cheese topping stretchy and creamy.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top for a sharp, nutty finish.
How to Make Ultimate Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pasta
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish, which will hold all those wonderful layers. Next, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until it is perfectly al dente, then drain it well. Having your pasta ready is essential before moving on so that everything comes together in the final bake.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat and add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté them until they are soft and fragrant, which should take about 3 to 4 minutes. This step releases their natural sweetness and builds a flavorful foundation for your sauce.
Step 3: Mix in the Creamy Ingredients
To the softened veggies, stir in the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, drained Rotel tomatoes, and chicken broth. Mix thoroughly to combine all components into a smooth, creamy mixture. This sauce is what makes the Ultimate Chicken Spaghetti Recipe so irresistibly rich and comforting.
Step 4: Add Spices and Chicken
Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well, then reduce the heat to low and fold in your shredded chicken, making sure every tender piece is coated with the luscious sauce. This step infuses the dish with layers of savory flavor.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Now, add the cooked spaghetti directly into the skillet with the sauce, gently tossing everything together until the pasta is evenly covered. This ensures that every bite delivers that perfect balance of creaminess, seasoning, and chicken goodness.
Step 6: Assemble and Bake
Transfer the spaghetti mixture into the prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheeses over the top. Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden. This final step brings all the flavors together with a gorgeously cheesy crust.
Step 7: Rest Before Serving
Allow the dish to rest for about 5 minutes after baking. This helps it set slightly, making it easier to serve and letting the flavors meld even more beautifully. Now you’re ready to dive into the Ultimate Chicken Spaghetti Recipe!
How to Serve Ultimate Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
Top your serving with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan to add a fresh, vibrant touch. A little cracked black pepper or even a dash of hot sauce can also brighten the flavor if you like a bit of heat. These simple garnishes bring a bit of color and fresh flavor contrast.
Side Dishes
Serve this rich and cheesy chicken spaghetti alongside a crisp green salad with a zingy vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables for balance. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are also excellent with this dish for soaking up every last bit of that creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Ultimate Chicken Spaghetti Recipe in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets for perfectly portioned, rustic servings. You could also top it with sliced olives, chopped green onions, or even diced jalapeños to personalize the final presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Ultimate Chicken Spaghetti Recipe stores wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Keeping it chilled promptly maintains its creamy texture and flavor.
Freezing
This dish also freezes well. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge to ensure even reheating without drying out.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to prevent drying, for about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave single portions, adding a splash of chicken broth to restore the creamy sauce’s consistency.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Pre-cooked rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time, making this Ultimate Chicken Spaghetti Recipe even quicker and easier to prepare.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
If you prefer homemade or want to avoid canned soups, you can substitute with a simple white sauce made from butter, flour, chicken broth, and milk, seasoned well with salt and pepper.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Swap out the chicken for sautéed mushrooms or a mix of your favorite veggies and replace chicken broth with vegetable broth for a delicious vegetarian twist.
How spicy is this recipe?
The recipe has a mild warmth thanks to the Rotel tomatoes and paprika, but it is generally kid-friendly. You can adjust the heat by choosing mild or hot Rotel tomatoes or adding chili flakes to taste.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Definitely! You can assemble it up to a day in advance, refrigerate, and bake fresh when ready. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Final Thoughts
Making the Ultimate Chicken Spaghetti Recipe is like bringing a big warm hug to your dinner table. It’s creamy, cheesy, and full of heartwarming flavors that become even better with every bite. Whether you’re feeding family, impressing guests, or just treating yourself to something comforting, this recipe truly delivers. Give it a try—you’ll be so glad you did!
Print
Ultimate Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Ultimate Chicken Spaghetti is a comforting, cheesy baked pasta dish featuring tender shredded chicken, sautéed vegetables, and a creamy sauce made from cream of chicken and mushroom soups, Rotel tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. This easy-to-make casserole combines perfectly cooked spaghetti with three types of cheese, baked to golden bubbly perfection—ideal for a family dinner or potluck.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti
Protein
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
Vegetables
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 small green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel tomatoes, drained
Dairy & Sauces
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Liquids & Seasonings
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook Spaghetti: Boil the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic; sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Make the Sauce: Stir in the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, drained Rotel tomatoes, and chicken broth into the skillet. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
- Season: Add Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper, stirring well to evenly incorporate the spices into the sauce.
- Add Chicken: Reduce heat to low and mix in the shredded cooked chicken until it is fully coated with the sauce.
- Combine with Spaghetti: Fold the cooked spaghetti into the sauce and chicken mixture, ensuring everything is tossed evenly together.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Transfer the spaghetti mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese topping is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set.
Notes
- You can substitute Rotel tomatoes with diced tomatoes and green chilies if preferred.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or use a spicy Rotel variety.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Use freshly cooked chicken or store-bought rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- To make this dish gluten-free, substitute regular spaghetti with gluten-free pasta.
