Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

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Chicken Spaghetti Casserole: The Ultimate Creamy Comfort Food Classic

When it comes to timeless comfort food recipes, few dishes can compete with a creamy, cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole. Loaded with shredded chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, velvety sauce that brings it all together, this dish is everything you want on a chilly evening, a potluck table, or a lazy Sunday dinner.

From busy weeknight meals to make-ahead freezer dinners, this chicken spaghetti casserole recipe is your new go-to solution for hearty, crowd-pleasing food that never disappoints.

🧀 Why This Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Is a Must-Try

  • Incredibly Creamy: Made with both Velveeta and shredded cheddar for the ultimate cheese pull
  • Loaded with Flavor: Cream of chicken, cream of mushroom, and Rotel tomatoes create a savory, slightly spicy base
  • Family-Approved: Kid-friendly and picky-eater proof
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble in advance for easy dinners during the week
  • Freezer-Friendly: A lifesaver for meal preppers and busy households

🍗 Ingredients List: What You’ll Need

For the Casserole

  • 1¾ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cooked and shredded)
  • 12 oz spaghetti, cooked al dente
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
  • 1 (10 oz) can Rotel tomatoes with green chilies, drained
  • 8 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed (or sub with extra cheddar)
  • 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (plus more for topping)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp paprika (optional for a mild kick)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional Add-ins: Sliced mushrooms, diced bell pepper, or chopped spinach

👩‍🍳 How to Make Chicken Spaghetti Casserole (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

  • Boil chicken breasts or thighs in salted water until fully cooked (15–20 minutes).
  • Remove and shred or chop into bite-sized pieces.
  • Time-saving tip: Use rotisserie chicken or leftover roast chicken.

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti

  • Boil spaghetti until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  • Do not overcook, as the pasta will continue to soften while baking.

Step 3: Sauté the Onion

  • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  • Add diced onion and cook until soft and translucent (about 4–5 minutes).

Step 4: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce

Reduce the heat to low and add:

  • Cream of mushroom soup
  • Cream of chicken soup
  • Diced Rotel tomatoes
  • Chicken broth
  • Velveeta cubes
  • Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper

Stir continuously until Velveeta is fully melted and sauce is smooth and creamy (5–7 minutes).

Step 5: Combine Everything

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

  • Cooked spaghetti
  • Shredded chicken
  • Cheese sauce mixture
  • 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

Stir well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  • Top generously with extra shredded cheddar cheese.
  • Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until hot, bubbly, and golden on top.

Step 7: Serve

  • Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
  • Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired.

💡 Make-Ahead and Freezing Instructions

To Make Ahead

  • Assemble casserole up to 2 days in advance.
  • Cover tightly with foil and refrigerate.
  • Bake when ready, adding an extra 5–10 minutes to account for chill.

To Freeze

  • Assemble casserole in a freezer-safe dish.
  • Wrap in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil.
  • Freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Thaw overnight in fridge before baking.

Leftovers

  • Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Reheat in the microwave or oven at 325°F until warm throughout.

📌 Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

  • Use freshly shredded cheese — it melts smoother than pre-shredded.
  • Don’t skip the Rotel — it adds depth, acidity, and just the right amount of heat.
  • Add a crunchy topping with crushed Ritz crackers or French fried onions before baking.
  • Want a lighter version? Use light soups and reduced-fat cheese, and swap half the pasta for spiralized zucchini.

🥗 Serving Suggestions

Pair this rich casserole with:

  • Garlic bread or homemade rolls
  • Steamed broccoli or green beans
  • Simple side salad with vinaigrette

This is a hearty, filling dish on its own, but a fresh side brings nice balance.

🥘 Variations to Try

  • Tex-Mex Style: Add taco seasoning, black beans, and corn.
  • Buffalo Chicken: Stir in buffalo sauce and top with blue cheese crumbles.
  • Broccoli Chicken Bake: Mix in steamed broccoli florets for a green veggie boost.
  • Creamy Mushroom: Add sautéed mushrooms and switch Velveeta for Swiss or Gruyère.

Conclusion

This Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is the very definition of comfort food done right. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving a warm, cheesy hug in a baking dish, this casserole has your back. It’s creamy, hearty, and endlessly customizable—a classic your whole family will ask for on repeat.

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