If you’re craving a warm, comforting dish that hits all the right notes of cheesy, creamy goodness with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta, this Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Bake Recipe is your next must-make meal. It’s simple to prepare yet packed with flavor, making it the ideal crowd-pleaser for family dinners or casual get-togethers. From the luscious sauce to the golden cheesy top, every bite will feel like a hug from the inside, showcasing why this dish has a place in countless kitchens.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather these straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that each bring something special to the table, whether it’s the rich creaminess, the savory depth, or the inviting color that makes this dish so irresistible.
- 12 oz spaghetti: The foundation of the bake, perfectly tender noodles that soak up all the creamy sauce.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Used to gently soften the onions and garlic, adding subtle richness upfront.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the flavor base.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Delivers a fragrant, savory punch that wakes up the dish.
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken: The hearty protein that makes this a satisfying, filling meal.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: Gives richness and that signature creamy texture.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds tang and silkiness to balance the cheese.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Keeps the sauce flavorful and not too thick, blending everything together.
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained: Brings a subtle kick and vibrant color.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided: The star cheesy indulgence, partly cooked into the sauce, partly toasted on top.
- 1/2 tsp paprika: Lends smoky warmth and a hint of color.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: For just a touch of spice that brightens the flavors.
- Salt to taste: Enhances all the other ingredients perfectly.
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional): Adds freshness and a pop of green for presentation.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Bake Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until it’s al dente, meaning it should still have a bit of bite to it for the perfect texture after baking. Drain it and set it aside, ready to soak up the creamy sauce that’s coming.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it softens and becomes translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Then stir in minced garlic and let it cook for another minute, filling your kitchen with that mouthwatering aroma.
Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce
To the onions and garlic, add the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, and drained diced tomatoes with green chilies. Stir everything together on medium heat until the mixture is heated through and well blended.
Step 4: Mix in Cheese and Spices
In goes 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, paprika, black pepper, and salt to taste. Stir constantly until the cheese melts completely and the sauce turns velvety smooth – that’s when you know you’re on the right track.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss gently so every strand is beautifully coated with that creamy, cheesy mixture. This step is crucial because it ensures each bite has balanced flavor.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the entire mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 20 to 25 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese on top has turned a gorgeous golden color.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Bake Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a fresh pop of green and a mild herbal note, brightening up the creamy, cheesy richness. It’s optional but highly recommended for that extra touch of visual and flavor appeal.
Side Dishes
Pair this hearty bake with crisp, refreshing sides like a simple green salad with vinaigrette or roasted vegetables to balance out the richness. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls also complement the dish wonderfully by soaking up any leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual portions in colorful ramekins for a cute, personalized touch at gatherings. For a fun twist, add a handful of crispy fried onions on top before serving to introduce a delightful crunch contrast to the creamy noodles.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover creamy chicken spaghetti bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It keeps well and tastes just as comforting the next day, making it perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers before baking, then thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed. Alternatively, you can freeze baked portions for up to 2 months, just make sure to cover tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F until warmed through and bubbly to revive that fresh-baked feeling. If you’re in a rush, microwave on medium power, stirring occasionally to heat evenly, although the oven method will keep the cheesy topping nice and melty.
FAQs
Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked shredded chicken?
Absolutely! You can cook and shred chicken breasts or thighs ahead of time, or use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience. Just make sure the chicken is fully cooked before adding it to the sauce.
Is there a way to make this recipe spicier?
Yes! Use the liquid from the diced tomatoes with green chilies, add a pinch of cayenne pepper, or toss in some chopped jalapeños to amp up the heat according to your taste preference.
Can I substitute the cream of chicken soup with something else?
Definitely! Cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup can add a different but equally delicious flavor twist, so feel free to experiment with what you have on hand.
What type of cheese works best for this bake?
Cheddar cheese is classic here, offering that perfect sharpness and meltability. However, you can mix in mozzarella for extra gooeyness or pepper jack for a spicy kick.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, simply substitute the spaghetti with your favorite gluten-free pasta and check that your canned soups and broth are gluten-free certified. Otherwise, the recipe is naturally free from common allergens like nuts.
Final Thoughts
Making this Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Bake Recipe is like giving yourself a slice of pure comfort that’s loaded with flavor and easy to pull together. It’s the kind of dish that warms hearts and fills bellies, perfect for anytime you want a cozy, satisfying meal without fuss. So grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a new family favorite that’s guaranteed to bring smiles to your table.
Print
Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This creamy chicken spaghetti recipe combines tender shredded chicken, al dente spaghetti, and a rich, cheesy sauce made with cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Baked to bubbly perfection with a golden cheese topping, it’s a comforting, easy-to-make family favorite perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz spaghetti
Sauce and Filling
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
Garnish
- Chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Spaghetti: Cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside to prevent overcooking.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute to release its aroma.
- Combine Sauce Ingredients: Add shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, and drained diced tomatoes with green chilies to the skillet. Stir until well combined and heated through, ensuring the sauce is creamy and homogeneous.
- Add Cheese and Seasonings: Stir in 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix until the cheese fully melts and the sauce thickens.
- Mix in Spaghetti: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce.
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly and sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese on top is lightly golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm for a comforting meal.
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken works well and saves time.
- For a flavor twist, substitute cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup instead of cream of chicken.
- To make it spicier, leave the liquid in the diced tomatoes with green chilies or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
