If you’ve been searching for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner that feels like a warm hug in every bite, look no further than this Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Bake Recipe. It’s a hearty, cheesy casserole that combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked spaghetti, and a luscious creamy sauce enhanced by savory herbs and gooey melted cheese. Whether you’re feeding your family or bringing a dish to a potluck, this recipe brings together simple ingredients with rich flavors for an unforgettable meal you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every great dish starts with great ingredients, and this recipe is no exception. You’ll find that each component plays a key role in delivering the creamy texture, savory depth, and colorful appeal of the final bake.
- Spaghetti noodles: Choose a sturdy pasta that holds up well to baking and soaks up the creamy sauce perfectly.
- Cooked chicken: Shredded or diced for easy mixing and even distribution of juicy bites throughout.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and helps soften the aromatics for a flavor-packed base.
- Onion and bell pepper: These add sweetness, a little crunch, and vibrant color.
- Garlic: Brings that irresistible depth and warmth to the savory sauce.
- Cream of mushroom soup and cream of chicken soup: The secret to a smooth, silky sauce that coats every noodle and piece of chicken.
- Dried basil and oregano: Classic herbs that lend an herby brightness and balance to the creamy richness.
- Chicken broth: Lightens the sauce slightly while adding subtle savory undertones.
- Cheddar and mozzarella cheeses: Cheddar adds a sharp flavor, and mozzarella makes everything irresistibly melty.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, because seasoning is everything!
- Chopped fresh parsley: Optional, but it adds a lovely fresh pop of color and flavor as a garnish.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Bake Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by boiling your spaghetti noodles according to the package directions until they are al dente—meaning they still have a slight bite. This step is crucial because you don’t want mushy noodles in your bake. Once cooked, drain them well and set aside to cool slightly while you prepare everything else.
Step 2: Prepare Your Oven and Chicken
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Meanwhile, if your chicken isn’t cooked yet, poach it gently in simmering water or grill it until juicy and just done. Then shred or dice the chicken so that every forkful of this casserole gets some tender chicken goodness.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in diced onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic, and sauté them for about 5 to 7 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. These softened veggies add a wonderful layer of flavor and texture that lifts the casserole above ordinary.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Next, stir in the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth right into the skillet with the sautéed veggies. Mix everything thoroughly until the sauce is smooth and uniform. Add the dried oregano, basil, salt, and pepper, and let it gently simmer for a few minutes. This simmers together the herbs and condenses the flavors, making every spoonful supremely comforting.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add your shredded chicken, cooked spaghetti noodles, and both the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses to the skillet. Carefully fold all the ingredients so they’re evenly coated in that luxurious sauce. This melding of noodles, chicken, cheese, and herbs defines the heart of the Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Bake Recipe’s appeal.
Step 6: Bake Until Bubbling and Golden
Transfer the combined mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. If you want extra cheesiness, sprinkle a little additional cheese on top. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to keep all the moisture in and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The result will be a bubbling, golden-topped casserole with every bite creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley just before serving for a pop of vibrant green and a fresh flavor contrast to the rich and cheesy pasta. A little extra shredded cheese on top, melted and slightly browned, also adds visual appeal and a tempting texture.
Side Dishes
This casserole is pretty hearty on its own, so light and crisp sides pair beautifully. Consider serving it with a fresh green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or simple steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans to add a burst of freshness and balance.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to get a bit fancy at the table, you can assemble the bake in smaller individual ramekins for personal portions, or top with crunchy breadcrumbs mixed with parmesan cheese for extra texture. These small tweaks make this homestyle dish feel extra special whenever you serve it.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Bake Recipe to airtight containers and keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors even deepen overnight, making it just as delicious the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months by placing the casserole in a freezer-safe container. Be sure to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to keep the texture just right.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil until heated through, typically about 20 minutes. Alternatively, microwave individual portions until warm, stirring midway for even heating. The creamy chicken spaghetti bake recipe bounces back wonderfully with just a little care.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken from scratch?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut for this recipe and adds a nice depth of flavor with minimal effort.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom and cream of chicken soups?
If you want to avoid canned soups, you can make a quick homemade white sauce with butter, flour, milk, and some chicken broth seasoned to taste, but the canned soups do make this recipe wonderfully easy.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free spaghetti noodles and make sure the soups and broth you use are gluten-free. This swap allows everyone to enjoy the creamy chicken spaghetti bake recipe without worry.
Can I add vegetables to the bake?
Definitely! Adding cooked mushrooms, spinach, or even peas can be delicious and add nutritional value while complementing the creamy sauce beautifully.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the veggies or mix in a bit of diced jalapeño for some heat. Adjust the spice level to your liking and enjoy a zesty twist!
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Bake Recipe enough if you’re craving a dish that feels like a big, warm, cheesy hug. The blend of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and melty cheeses comes together in the most delicious way, making it an easy, satisfying meal option for weeknights or gatherings. Give this recipe a try and watch it become a treasured favorite in your home too!
Print
Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Chicken spaghetti is a creamy, cheesy baked pasta dish featuring tender shredded chicken, sautéed vegetables, and a savory blend of cream soups and herbs. This comforting casserole combines cooked spaghetti noodles with a flavorful sauce, topped with melted cheddar and mozzarella cheese, making it a perfect meal for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Spaghetti and Chicken
- 1 pound spaghetti noodles
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce and Seasonings
- 1 can (10.75 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.75 ounces) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Optional Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Spaghetti: Boil the spaghetti noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to prevent overcooking.
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole later.
- Prepare Chicken: If your chicken isn’t cooked, either poach or grill it until fully done. Once cooled, shred or dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces for easy mixing.
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and release their flavors.
- Make Sauce: Into the skillet, stir in cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth. Mix thoroughly until smooth. Add dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer briefly so the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked chicken, drained spaghetti noodles, shredded cheddar, and shredded mozzarella cheeses into the skillet with the sauce. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly coated and combined.
- Bake Casserole: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Optionally, sprinkle extra cheese on top. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese melts and the casserole is heated through.
- Serve: Remove from oven, let it rest a few minutes, then garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm as a delicious hearty meal.
Notes
- Using leftover cooked chicken works great for this recipe and saves prep time.
- Substitute cream of mushroom and cream of chicken soups with homemade roux-based sauces for a fresher taste.
- Feel free to add cooked vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Leftovers refrigerate well and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Ensure spaghetti is drained thoroughly to avoid a soupy casserole.
