Easy Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe – Classic Comfort Food

There’s something incredibly comforting about pulling a bubbling casserole out of the oven on a busy weeknight. The kitchen fills with the rich aroma of melted cheese, tender chicken, and creamy sauce woven through perfectly cooked spaghetti. This Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table without hesitation. This recipe was inspired by classic family-style baked pasta dishes that show up at potlucks, Sunday dinners, and cozy evenings at home. It combines the heartiness of a pasta bake with the creamy goodness of a comfort-food casserole. Simple ingredients, easy preparation, and irresistible flavor make it a dependable go-to dinner for families who crave something warm, satisfying, and crowd-pleasing.

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Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

This easy chicken spaghetti casserole delivers everything you want in a weeknight dinner:

• Creamy, cheesy texture in every bite
• Tender shredded chicken for protein and heartiness
• Simple pantry ingredients
• Make-ahead and freezer-friendly
• Perfect for feeding a crowd

It’s ideal for busy families, meal prepping, and even casual gatherings. Whether you’re using leftover chicken or preparing it fresh, this recipe transforms everyday ingredients into a comforting masterpiece.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Here are the exact ingredients with measurements to ensure your casserole turns out perfectly creamy and flavorful:

• 12 ounces (340 g) spaghetti
• 3 cups (about 450 g) cooked shredded chicken breast
• 2 cups (200 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 can (10.5 ounces / 300 g) cream of chicken soup
• 1 can (10.5 ounces / 300 g) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth
• 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
• 1 small onion, finely diced (about ½ cup / 75 g)
• 1 medium red bell pepper, diced (about 1 cup / 150 g)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons (30 g) unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

These simple ingredients create layers of flavor without requiring complicated techniques.

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Choosing the Best Chicken for This Recipe

The beauty of this casserole is its flexibility. You can use:

• Freshly baked chicken breast
• Rotisserie chicken
• Leftover grilled chicken
• Poached chicken

For best results, cook 1½ pounds (680 g) of boneless, skinless chicken breast with salt and pepper until fully cooked, then shred with two forks. Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds extra flavor.

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How to Make Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook 12 ounces (340 g) spaghetti according to package directions until just al dente. Drain and set aside. Avoid overcooking the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons (30 g) butter. Add:

• ½ cup (75 g) diced onion
• 1 cup (150 g) diced red bell pepper

Sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened. Add 2 cloves minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Stir in:

• 1 can (10.5 ounces / 300 g) cream of chicken soup
• 1 can (10.5 ounces / 300 g) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth
• 1 cup (240 ml) milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

Simmer for 3–5 minutes until smooth and heated through.

Step 3: Combine Everything

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

• Cooked spaghetti
• 3 cups (450 g) shredded chicken
• 1½ cups (150 g) shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella

Pour the creamy sauce over the mixture and stir until evenly coated.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup (50 g) cheddar cheese evenly on top. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly and the cheese is melted and lightly golden. Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

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Tips for the Creamiest Texture

To ensure your chicken spaghetti casserole turns out perfectly creamy every time:

• Use whole milk instead of low-fat milk
• Slightly undercook the pasta
• Mix cheese into the sauce, not just on top
• Allow the casserole to rest before serving

Resting helps the sauce thicken and settle, making slicing and serving easier.

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Delicious Variations to Try

This casserole is wonderfully adaptable. Here are a few ideas:

Add Vegetables

Mix in:

• 1 cup (150 g) steamed broccoli
• 1 cup (150 g) sautéed mushrooms
• 1 cup (150 g) frozen peas

Make It Spicier

Add:

• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 diced jalapeño
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

Make It Extra Cheesy

Add an additional ½ cup (50 g) shredded mozzarella or cheddar inside the mixture.

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Make-Ahead and Freezer Instructions

To Make Ahead:

Assemble the casserole but do not bake. Cover tightly and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Bake as directed, adding an extra 5–10 minutes if needed.

To Freeze:

Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking. This makes it perfect for meal prepping or bringing dinner to friends and family.

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What to Serve with Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Balance this creamy dish with lighter sides:

• Fresh green salad with vinaigrette
• Steamed green beans
• Garlic bread
• Roasted carrots

These simple sides complement the richness of the casserole beautifully.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, absolutely. While traditional spaghetti gives this casserole its classic texture, you can substitute other pasta shapes if needed. Penne, rotini, linguine, or even fettuccine work well. The key is to use about 12 ounces (340 g) of dry pasta and cook it until just al dente. Short pasta shapes tend to hold the creamy sauce especially well, while longer noodles provide a more traditional baked spaghetti feel. Keep in mind that thicker pasta shapes may slightly alter the texture, but the flavor will remain delicious.

2. How do I prevent the casserole from becoming dry?

Dryness usually happens if the pasta absorbs too much liquid. To prevent this, avoid overbaking and ensure you measure liquids accurately. Using 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth and 1 cup (240 ml) milk is important for maintaining creaminess. Also, slightly undercook the pasta before baking. If reheating leftovers, add 2–3 tablespoons (30–45 ml) milk before warming to restore moisture.

3. Can I make this casserole gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be gluten-free. Substitute regular spaghetti with 12 ounces (340 g) gluten-free spaghetti. Additionally, use gluten-free condensed soups or prepare a homemade creamy sauce using gluten-free flour and chicken broth. Always check ingredient labels to ensure they meet dietary needs. The flavor and texture remain satisfying with these simple swaps.

4. How long do leftovers last?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1–2 minutes, adding a splash of milk if needed. For larger portions, cover with foil and warm in a 325°F (165°C) oven for about 15–20 minutes. Proper storage helps maintain the creamy consistency and fresh flavor.

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Final Thoughts

Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is the kind of meal that brings comfort and simplicity together in one satisfying dish. It’s hearty without being complicated, creamy without being overwhelming, and flexible enough to suit different tastes and occasions. Whether you’re preparing dinner for a busy weeknight, contributing to a gathering, or stocking your freezer with ready-to-bake meals, this casserole consistently delivers. What makes this recipe truly special is its balance. The tender shredded chicken provides protein and substance. The perfectly cooked spaghetti offers structure and heartiness. The creamy, flavorful sauce binds everything together, while the melted cheese topping adds that irresistible golden finish. It’s also a wonderful recipe to customize. You can add vegetables, adjust seasonings, or increase the cheese to make it uniquely yours. It adapts to what you have on hand, making it both practical and dependable. Most importantly, this dish creates moments. The act of gathering around a warm casserole straight from the oven feels nostalgic and comforting. It’s the kind of meal that sparks conversation, invites seconds, and becomes part of your regular dinner rotation. If you’re looking for an easy creamy family dinner that satisfies everyone at the table, this Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is one you’ll return to again and again. Print