Chicken Spaghetti Casserole – The Ultimate Weeknight Comfort Dish

Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is the definition of comfort in a casserole dish. It’s cheesy, creamy, and so easy to throw together that you might start skipping takeout night altogether. Whether it’s a chilly weeknight, a family potluck, or you’re just craving something cozy and satisfying, this dish checks all the boxes. With tender shredded chicken, gooey cheese, and spaghetti tangled up in a rich, savory sauce—it’s basically a hug in dinner form.

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What Is Chicken Spaghetti Casserole?

Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a creamy baked pasta dish that combines shredded chicken, cooked spaghetti, and a savory blend of soups, cheese, and mild spice from diced tomatoes with green chilies. Think of it as the perfect marriage between a chicken Alfredo and a Tex-Mex casserole. It’s filling, family-friendly, and a great way to use up leftover chicken. The best part? It reheats like a dream, making it ideal for meal prep or a hearty Sunday dinner that’ll feed you through midweek.

Reasons to Try Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

If you’ve got picky eaters, a busy schedule, or just a love for all things cheesy—this Chicken Spaghetti Casserole belongs in your rotation. It’s a one-pan wonder that keeps cleanup minimal and taste maximal. Plus, it’s endlessly adaptable: swap the soups, add some spice, or sneak in extra veggies (they’ll never know!). Busy moms love that it can be made ahead and frozen, while comfort food lovers swear by its creamy, golden crust. Basically, it’s dinner that doesn’t judge your chaotic Tuesday night energy.

Ingredients Needed to Make Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Alright, let’s talk about what makes this Chicken Spaghetti Casserole so irresistibly creamy, cheesy, and comforting. Every ingredient has a purpose here — from the perfectly tender pasta to the gooey cheese that pulls like a dream. You don’t need anything fancy, just pantry staples that come together into pure comfort food magic.

Here’s what you’ll need (and why each one matters):

1. Spaghetti (12 ounces, broken into thirds)
Traditional spaghetti gives this casserole that signature cozy texture — soft yet sturdy enough to hold up under layers of creamy sauce. Breaking the spaghetti into shorter pieces helps it mix evenly with the chicken and sauce so every bite has that perfect balance. If you’re short on spaghetti, you can swap in linguine or even rotini for a fun twist. For another family pasta favorite, check out our Chicken Mozzarella Pasta — it’s another creamy winner you’ll crave.

2. Cooked Chicken (3 cups, shredded)
This is the heart of your casserole. Shredded rotisserie chicken is a busy cook’s secret weapon — it’s juicy, flavorful, and already cooked! You can also use leftover grilled or poached chicken if you have it on hand. Aim for tender shreds rather than chunks, so the chicken blends beautifully into the sauce. If you’re meal prepping, make an extra batch of shredded chicken to use in recipes like our Cheesy Baked Chicken Fajita Casserole.

3. Olive Oil (1 tablespoon)
A quick sauté in olive oil gives your veggies that delicious caramelized base flavor. It’s what makes your kitchen smell like home before the casserole even hits the oven. You can use butter for a richer taste, but olive oil keeps things a little lighter.

4. Onion (1 small, finely chopped)
Onions are the backbone of any great casserole. When sautéed, they add a subtle sweetness that balances the creaminess of the soups and cheese. If you’re not a big onion fan, you can use shallots for a gentler flavor.

5. Green Bell Pepper (1, diced)
This is where the freshness comes in. The bell pepper adds color, crunch, and a hint of tangy sweetness that cuts through the richness of the sauce. Feel free to mix it up with red or yellow peppers if you prefer a milder taste.

6. Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
Because every comforting casserole deserves that garlicky aroma. A couple of cloves add depth and warmth to your Chicken Spaghetti Casserole, rounding out the creamy base beautifully.

7. Cream of Chicken Soup (1 can, 10.5 ounces)
This is where the magic starts. Cream of chicken soup brings that velvety smooth, savory flavor that ties everything together. It’s the secret shortcut to creating that homemade-from-scratch taste without all the fuss.

8. Cream of Mushroom Soup (1 can, 10.5 ounces)
It adds a deeper, earthy flavor that balances the brightness of the tomatoes. If you’re not into mushrooms, don’t worry — once baked, it blends seamlessly into the sauce. You can also replace it with cream of celery or a second can of cream of chicken.

9. Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies (1 can, 10 ounces, drained)
This gives your Chicken Spaghetti Casserole a little Tex-Mex flair! The tangy tomatoes and mild chilies add brightness and just the right amount of heat. If your family prefers a mild version, use regular diced tomatoes instead.

10. Chicken Broth (1 cup)
The secret to keeping your casserole from drying out. It thins the sauce just enough to coat every noodle while adding savory chicken flavor. Use low-sodium broth so you can control the salt level.

11. Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, shredded and divided)
This is the soul of the dish — sharp cheddar brings that melty, tangy richness everyone loves. You’ll stir some into the casserole and save a little extra to sprinkle on top before baking for that golden, bubbly crust. For cheese lovers, you might also adore our Million Dollar Chicken Casserole — it’s pure indulgence.

12. Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup, shredded)
For that perfect cheese pull! Mozzarella melts beautifully and gives your casserole that gooey stretch when you scoop into it. Mixing cheddar and mozzarella keeps the flavor balanced — bold and creamy.

13. Seasonings: Salt (1 teaspoon), Black Pepper (½ teaspoon), Paprika (½ teaspoon), Garlic Powder (½ teaspoon)
These simple spices bring harmony to the whole dish. Paprika adds a smoky hint, while garlic powder layers on extra flavor. Don’t skip the black pepper — it gives the sauce a subtle warmth that complements the cheese.

14. Fresh Parsley (optional, chopped for garnish)
Because we eat with our eyes first! A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and a hint of freshness that makes this hearty dish look and taste balanced.

Bonus Tip:
If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in extras like chopped spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or even a handful of corn. This casserole is forgiving and flexible — just like your favorite weeknight recipes should be.

Instructions to Make Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Making Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a comforting ritual — one that turns a few simple ingredients into a creamy, golden masterpiece your family will beg you to make again. Don’t rush it; enjoy the process. From the tender pasta to the gooey cheese, every step builds the kind of flavor that feels like home.

Let’s break it down step by step:

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti Just Right

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 12 ounces of spaghetti, broken into thirds, and cook until just al dente — about 8 minutes. Remember, the pasta will cook more in the oven, so you want it slightly firm to the bite.

Once cooked, drain it well and toss lightly with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking. This step might seem small, but it’s key for keeping your Chicken Spaghetti Casserole perfectly textured — not mushy or clumpy.

Pro Tip: If you love easy pasta dinners, you’ll also adore our creamy One-Pot Garlic Pasta. It’s another quick, no-fuss comfort meal with major flavor payoff.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics (This Builds the Flavor Base)

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your finely chopped onion and diced green bell pepper. Cook them for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and smell sweet.

Next, add two minced garlic cloves and sauté for just 30 seconds — long enough to release their fragrance without burning. Remove from heat and set aside.

These sautéed veggies are the base flavor layer of your Chicken Spaghetti Casserole, adding a bit of sweetness and depth that perfectly balances the creamy sauce.

If you’re in the mood for another casserole with rich, sautéed veggies, try our Healthy Chicken Cauliflower Rice Casserole. It’s a lighter but equally satisfying twist on the comfort casserole theme.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce Mixture

Now it’s time to create that rich, comforting sauce that makes Chicken Spaghetti Casserole so famous.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and chicken broth. Stir until smooth and well blended.

Add your seasonings — salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder — to give it that savory, slightly smoky depth.

Then, gently fold in your shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie works perfectly here) and the sautéed onions and bell peppers from earlier. Mix in 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese, the mozzarella cheese, and your cooked spaghetti.

Stir until everything is well-coated in the creamy sauce — it should look like cheesy, saucy heaven before it even hits the oven.

Pro Tip: For extra depth, stir in a handful of chopped spinach or a few spoonfuls of sour cream. You can even add a dash of hot sauce if your family loves a little kick.

Step 4: Assemble the Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Pour your creamy spaghetti mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.

Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the top — this will melt into a beautiful golden crust as it bakes.

Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap the steam and keep everything moist during the first part of baking.

If you love the cheesy topping that crisps perfectly every time, you’ll probably enjoy our Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole. It’s another oven-baked classic that delivers that same bubbling, golden perfection.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly

Place your covered casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. Then, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the top is bubbling, golden brown, and smells downright irresistible.

Let the Chicken Spaghetti Casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps it set up a bit, making it easier to scoop those perfect, cheesy servings.

When you pull it out of the oven, you’ll see melted cheddar stretching, golden edges crisped just right, and that creamy, hearty filling peeking through. It’s the definition of family comfort food.

Optional Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you want a little extra color or kick.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy the Comfort

Scoop generous portions onto plates and serve with a crisp green salad, roasted veggies, or even a slice of garlic bread. The creamy, cheesy sauce clings to every strand of spaghetti and pairs beautifully with lighter sides.

If you’re hosting or meal-prepping, this Chicken Spaghetti Casserole reheats beautifully and makes amazing leftovers. It’s one of those rare dishes that taste even better the next day.

Want another comforting bake that’s perfect for sharing? Try our Southern Chicken and Dressing — it’s like Thanksgiving dinner without all the effort.

Step 7: Bonus – Make It Ahead or Freeze for Later

One of the best things about Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is how flexible it is. You can prepare the entire dish up to a day ahead — just assemble, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, pop it straight into the oven (add an extra 10 minutes if it’s chilled).

To freeze: wrap the unbaked casserole with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store it for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

This make-ahead option makes it a total lifesaver for busy families, new moms, or anyone who loves having a comforting meal ready to go.

What to Serve with Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

A dish this rich deserves a light sidekick. Try pairing it with a crisp green salad, roasted acorn squash (see our Roasted Acorn Squash with Brown Sugar), or even simple garlic bread. If you’re feeling extra fancy, a chilled glass of white wine or sweet tea hits the spot.

Key Tips for Making Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

1. Use rotisserie chicken for that built-in flavor shortcut.
2. Don’t overcook your pasta—it’ll continue to soften in the oven.
3. Customize the heat by adding jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes.
4. Mix up the cheese—try Monterey Jack for a melty upgrade.
5. Double the batch and freeze one for those “nothing’s defrosted” nights.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Got leftovers? Lucky you. Store cooled casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes. It also freezes beautifully—wrap tightly and freeze up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight and reheat until hot and bubbly.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use other pasta shapes?
Absolutely! Penne or rotini works great if you don’t have spaghetti.

Q2: What if I don’t like cream of mushroom soup?
Swap it for cream of celery or double up on cream of chicken—no judgment here.

Q3: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it, cover tightly, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Q4: How do I make it spicy?
Add cayenne pepper, diced jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.

Q5: Can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free spaghetti and soups—The Kitchn has a great guide on how to make gluten-free casseroles creamy.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving creamy, cheesy comfort, this Chicken Spaghetti Casserole delivers every time. It’s that rare combination of easy prep, hearty flavor, and family appeal—perfect for busy weeknights or potluck dinners. Give it a try, and you’ll understand why it’s become a staple in Southern kitchens and beyond.

For another cheesy weeknight favorite, don’t miss our Stuffing Chicken Casserole or the ultra-comforting French Onion Chicken Rice Bake.

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