Okay, friends, let’s talk about the weeknight dinner savior, the ultimate crowd-pleaser, and the one that is worth every penny. What is a dish that even my pickiest eaters gobble up without complaint? What is the best chicken spaghetti recipe? If I could only cook one thing for the rest of my life, what would it be? ), this might be it. Is it like the baked ziti of the South, but with a creamy, cheesy sauce? I swear, it’s almost as easy as dumping everything into a slow cooker, but way more satisfying.

What is Easy Chicken Spaghetti?

Think of it as a casserole, but with spaghetti noodles instead of macaroni. Is it cooked spaghetti tossed in a creamy sauce made with cream of mushroom soup? ), Rotel tomatoes, cheddar cheese, and shredded chicken. What is the Rotel? Is it baked until golden brown? Do not let the simplicity fool you, though; it’s packed with flavor!

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Where do I even begin? First and foremost, the taste is incredible. The combination of creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy is just perfection. It’s one of those dishes where every bite is better than the last. But beyond the flavor, this Easy Chicken Spaghetti Recipe is just SO easy to make. Seriously, even on the busiest weeknights, I can whip this up without breaking a sweat. Plus, it’s budget-friendly. Chicken, spaghetti, canned soup – these are all staples that won’t break the bank. What I love most about this is the versatility. You can add veggies (like mushrooms or bell peppers), use different kinds of cheese, or adjust the spice level to your liking. It’s a blank canvas for your culinary creativity! For those craving a similar but distinct experience, check out my Creamy Tomato Pasta Baked?. It offers a vegetarian spin with tomato-based sauce, providing an enjoyable alternative. Plus, you can adapt it with your choice of vegetables for a personalized touch!

How do I make easy chicken spaghetti?

Quick Overview

The process is really simple. How do I cook a chicken? While the chicken cooks, boil your spaghetti. Then, you’ll mix everything together in a large bowl with the sauce ingredients, pour it into an airtight container. In a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake until golden and bubbly. What’s the best part about cleaning up? What’s not to love?

Ingredients Notes

For the Spaghetti: What are
Is it healthy to use a 16-ounce package? Chicken Broth: This adds flavor to the spaghetti as it cooks. Water works too, but broth is better!

For the Sauce:
Cooked Chicken: About 3 cups, shredded. Can you use leftover rotisserie chicken, poached chicken or canned chicken? Cream of Mushroom Soup: Two 10.75-ounce cans. This is the base of the creamy sauce. What are Rotel tomatoes? What are some good spices to add to a dish? What is the best cream cheese recipe? Four ounces, softened. This adds richness and creaminess to the sauce. How does Cheddar cheese blend? I use sharp cheddar, but you can use any kind you like. Butter: Butter is a good substitute for butter. Two tablespoons. This adds richness to the sauce. Onion: Half of a medium onion, diced. Garlic: Two cloves, minced. Adds depth of flavor. Salt and pepper: To taste. Don’t forget to season your dish!

What are the steps to

Step 1: Preheat & Cook Spaghetti

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Cook spaghetti according to package directions. Drain well.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Set aside. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine cooked spaghetti, sautéed onion and garlic, shredded chicken, cream of mushroom soup, Rotel tomatoes, softened cream cheese, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.

Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish

In a baking dish, pour the spaghetti mixture into the prepared dish and spread it evenly.

Step 5: Top with Cheese

If you have leftover spaghetti, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the top.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. When spaghetti is heated through, it is not cooked.

Step 7: Cool Slightly & Serve

Let the spaghetti stand for a few minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly. Serve hot and enjoy!

5. What to Serve It With

What is the best way to serve it with?

This Easy Chicken Spaghetti is pretty hearty on its own, but it pairs well with a variety of sides, depending on the occasion.

For a casual dinner:What are some good ways to add freshness to a salad? Garlic bread is also a classic pairing that’s always popular.

For a potluck or party:What is a crowd pleaser with potato salad? What are some good side dishes to serve with spaghetti?

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For a Holiday Gathering:Green bean casserole or roasted asparagus are elegant options that complement the spaghetti nicely. Don’t forget the dinner rolls!

What is the best weeknight meal?Steamed broccoli or a side of corn on the cob are quick and easy options that the whole family will enjoy. If you’re looking for more healthy additions you can check out my other recipes.Roasted Vegetable Medley.

Growing up, my grandma always served this with a side of buttered peas. I know it sounds simple, but it’s a comforting combination that I still love to this day. Whatever you choose, make sure it’s something you and your family will enjoy!

How do I make homemade chicken spaghetti?

What are some tips for making chicken spaghetti sauce?

After making this dish countless times, I’ve picked up a few tricks along the way to ensure it’s delicious. Always a home run: what is the best way

Don’t overcook spaghetti: Don’t Nobody likes mushy spaghetti. Cook it al dente, meaning it should still have a little bite to it. It will continue to cook in the oven, so you don’t want it to become too soft. I usually undercook it by a minute or two.

How do you shred your own cheese?Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly. How do you shred your own cheese? What are some good ways to mix Pepperjack with a spicy kick?

Don’t be afraid to experiment with veggies: What are the best ways to eat them?What’s your favorite veggie? Sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or even spinach are great additions. Just make sure to cook them before adding them to the spaghetti mixture.

Adjust the Spice Level to Your Liking: If you’re not a fan of spice, use mild Rotel tomatoes or even diced tomatoes instead. If you like things hot, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the spaghetti mixture.

Use Rotisserie Chicken for Convenience: To save time, use a rotisserie chicken from the grocery store. Just shred the chicken and add it to the spaghetti mixture. It’s a great shortcut that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.

Let it Stand Before Serving: After baking, let the spaghetti stand for a few minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and makes it easier to serve.

7. Storing and Reheating Tips

Storing and Reheating Tips

This Easy Chicken Spaghetti Recipe is great for meal prepping, because it can be stored and reheated very well!

Room Temperature: I wouldn’t recommend leaving cooked chicken spaghetti at room temperature for more than two hours. Bacteria can grow quickly at room temperature, so it’s best to refrigerate it as soon as possible.

Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover chicken spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before storing it to prevent condensation from forming.

Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze chicken spaghetti. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating Instructions: To reheat, you can microwave individual portions for a few minutes, or bake the entire dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You may need to add a little chicken broth or water to the spaghetti to prevent it from drying out.

Glaze Timing Advice: Consider adding a fresh sprinkle of cheddar cheese before reheating to freshen up the flavors.

8. Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different kind of soup?

While cream of mushroom soup is traditional, you can use cream of chicken or cream of celery soup if you prefer. Just keep in mind that it will slightly alter the flavor of the dish.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the spaghetti ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.

Can I use a different kind of cheese?

Of course! Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or even a blend of cheeses would work well in this recipe.

Is this recipe spicy?

The spice level depends on the type of Rotel tomatoes you use. If you’re sensitive to spice, use mild Rotel or diced tomatoes instead.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, feel free to add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to the spaghetti mixture.

9. Final Thoughts

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – my go-to Easy Chicken Spaghetti Recipe! It’s a simple, comforting, and delicious dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you need to feed a crowd. It’s truly a family favorite, and I hope it becomes one of yours too. If you love this recipe, be sure to check out my Creamy Tuna Noodle Casserole for another comforting classic. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Let me know in the comments if you try it, and feel free to share any variations you make. I’m always looking for new ideas!