Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

If you’re in the mood for creamy, cheesy comfort food that’s quick to throw together and perfect for feeding a crowd, this Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is your new go-to recipe. Made with tender chicken, pasta, and a rich, flavorful sauce, this family favorite is ideal for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or make-ahead freezer meals.

Want recipes like this delivered straight to your inbox? Subscribe now to get the latest culinary creations you’ll love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Comfort Food Favorite – Creamy, cheesy, and packed with familiar flavors.
Easy to Prepare – Simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
Perfect for Leftovers – Tastes even better the next day.
Customizable – Add your favorite vegetables or spice it up with a kick.
Freezer-Friendly – Make one now, freeze one for later.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Casserole:

• 12 oz spaghetti, broken in half
• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Topping:

• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup crushed butter crackers or breadcrumbs (optional)
• 2 tbsp melted butter (if using crackers)

Optional Add-Ins:

• ½ cup diced green bell pepper
• ½ cup sautéed onions or mushrooms
• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• ½ cup frozen peas or corn

Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large mixing bowl
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Foil (for baking, optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook spaghetti until al dente (about 1–2 minutes less than package directions).
Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Stir in 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese until everything is well mixed.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Add the cooked spaghetti and shredded chicken to the sauce mixture.
Mix until the noodles and chicken are fully coated.
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread evenly.

Step 4: Add the Topping
Sprinkle ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese on top.
If using cracker crumbs or breadcrumbs, toss them with melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the cheese layer.

Step 5: Bake
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove foil and bake another 10–15 minutes, until bubbly and lightly golden on top.
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips for Best Results
Use Rotisserie Chicken – Saves time and adds flavor.
Slightly Undercook Pasta – Helps it hold up better during baking.
Add Veggies – Toss in peas, corn, or chopped bell pepper for extra nutrition.
Make It Spicy – Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
Double and Freeze – Bake one now, freeze one for later.

Serving Suggestions
Garlic Bread – Perfect for scooping up creamy sauce.
Simple Green Salad – A fresh side to lighten up the meal.
Steamed Broccoli – Adds color and nutrition.
Roasted Carrots – Sweet and savory pairing with creamy pasta.
Fruit Salad – Balances out the richness with a touch of freshness.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze unbaked or baked casserole for up to 2 months.

Reheating:
Oven: Cover and reheat at 350°F for 20–25 minutes or until hot.
Microwave: Heat individual servings on medium power for 1–2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
   Yes! Penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni all work well.
2. Can I skip the cream soups?
   You can substitute homemade cream sauces if you prefer to avoid canned soup.
3. Is it okay to make this in advance?
   Yes, assemble it ahead and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
4. Can I use a dairy-free version?
   Yes, use dairy-free sour cream, cheese, and soup alternatives.
5. What’s the best cheese to use?
   Sharp cheddar is classic, but mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend works great too.

Final Thoughts
This Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is creamy, satisfying, and full of cozy, comforting flavors your whole family will love. With simple ingredients and easy prep, it’s a great option for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or sharing at gatherings. One bite, and it’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation!

Give it a try and share your casserole creation online—because comfort food this good deserves to be shared.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Cuisine: American–Southern

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 460 | Protein: 27g | Carbohydrates: 33g | Fat: 25g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 780mg

Print