Few meals are as comforting as a big plate of creamy, cheesy Chicken Spaghetti. This Southern classic is the perfect combination of tender chicken, pasta, and a rich, flavorful sauce. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together, whether for a family dinner, potluck, or weeknight comfort food. The best part? This recipe is easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and packed with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Spaghetti:
- 12 ounces spaghetti, uncooked
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great!)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 green bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional for a kick)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
1: Cook the Spaghetti
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
2: Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant (about 5 minutes).
3: Make the Sauce
- Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, Rotel tomatoes, chicken broth, and sour cream.
- Add chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well and let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4: Combine Ingredients
- Add the cooked chicken to the sauce, stirring to coat it evenly.
- Toss the cooked spaghetti into the skillet, ensuring every strand is coated in the creamy sauce.
- Stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and combined.
5: Bake to Perfection
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Transfer the spaghetti mixture to a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6: Serve
- Let the Chicken Spaghetti cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired, and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Chicken Spaghetti
- Rotisserie Chicken Shortcut: Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds a smoky flavor to the dish.
- Customize the Heat: If you’re sensitive to spice, use mild diced tomatoes instead of Rotel. For more heat, add diced jalapeños.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: This prevents the spaghetti from becoming mushy after baking.
- Cheese Variations: Swap cheddar for Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a different flavor.
- Make It Ahead: Assemble the dish up to the baking step, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready.
Storage Instructions
Refrigeration:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Freezing:
- Chicken Spaghetti freezes well! Cool completely and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake until warmed through.
Variations
- Vegetable Add-Ins:
- Add mushrooms, spinach, or peas for extra nutrition.
- Lighter Version:
- Use low-fat soups, reduced-fat cheese, and Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
- Southwest Flavor:
- Incorporate black beans and corn into the mixture and top with crushed tortilla chips after baking.
- Protein Alternatives:
- Swap chicken for turkey, shrimp, or even crumbled sausage for a twist.
- No-Bake Option:
- Skip the baking step and serve straight from the stovetop for a quicker meal.
Nutrition Details
| Nutrient | Per Serving (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 410 |
| Protein | 26g |
| Total Fat | 15g |
| Saturated Fat | 8g |
| Cholesterol | 70mg |
| Sodium | 920mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 3g |
FAQ
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and ensure the soups you choose are gluten-free.
What kind of chicken works best?
Cooked shredded chicken breast or thighs work wonderfully. Rotisserie chicken is an easy option.
Can I skip baking it?
Yes! You can serve the Chicken Spaghetti right after mixing everything together in the skillet.
What can I serve with Chicken Spaghetti?
This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables.
How can I make it more kid-friendly?
Reduce the Rotel tomatoes or use mild diced tomatoes to make it less spicy.