Name: Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Bake That Will Steal Your Heart
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 8 oz Spaghetti (or any pasta you love); 2 cups Cooked Chicken (shredded, rotisserie preferred); 10.5 oz Cream of Mushroom Soup (alternatives like cream of celery work); 10.5 oz Cream of Chicken Soup (swap for another cream soup if desired); 1 cup Chicken Broth (or vegetable broth); 1 cup Sour Cream (full-fat for the creamiest results); 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (shredded, Colby Jack is a substitute); 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese (shredded); 0.5 cup Onion (chopped); 0.5 cup Green Bell Pepper (chopped, optional); 2 cloves Garlic (minced); 1 tbsp Butter (for sautéing); Seasonings (salt, black pepper, paprika); Vegetables (frozen peas, corn, jalapeños); Bacon (crumbled); Crunchy Topping (crushed crackers with melted butter)

The laughter of my family fills the kitchen as the comforting aroma of my Easy Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole wafts through the air, creating a warm embrace that invites everyone to gather. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser, making it ideal for those chaotic weeknights when time is precious. With creamy soups, shredded chicken, and layers of melted cheese, it’s the ultimate comfort food that never fails to satisfy. And the best part? You can customize it with your favorite veggies or cheeses, making every bake a unique creation. Are you ready to whip up a delicious meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds?

Why Is This Casserole So Irresistible?

Simplicity, this creamy chicken spaghetti casserole requires minimal effort, making it perfect for even the busiest weeknights. Customization is key—feel free to add your favorite veggies or experiment with different cheeses, such as sharp cheddar or gooey mozzarella. Crowd-Pleasing, its cheesy goodness is a hit with everyone, ensuring there are no leftovers! Hearty and filling, this dish creates a warm, comforting atmosphere that brings your family together. For more easy family meals, check out my Honey Garlic Chicken or Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup.

Chicken Spaghetti Bake Ingredients

For the Casserole
Spaghetti – the base of this Chicken Spaghetti Bake, providing the perfect structure; feel free to substitute with any pasta you love.
Cooked Chicken – 2 cups shredded chicken enhances protein richness; using rotisserie chicken makes prep a breeze.
Cream of Mushroom Soup – 10.5 oz can adds creaminess and depth; alternatives like cream of celery work wonderfully too.
Cream of Chicken Soup – 10.5 oz can layers in more flavor; swap for another cream soup if you prefer!
Chicken Broth – 1 cup keeps the casserole moist; stock or even vegetable broth will do the trick.
Sour Cream – 1 cup introduces a delightful tang; go for full-fat for the creamiest results.
Cheddar Cheese – 1 cup shredded brings sharp flavor; Colby Jack makes a great substitute.
Mozzarella Cheese – 1 cup shredded ensures a beautifully cheesy pull and gooey texture.
Onion – ½ cup chopped builds a flavorful foundation; yellow or white onions work best.
Green Bell Pepper – ½ cup chopped contributes a hint of sweetness; feel free to omit if desired.
Garlic – 2 cloves minced for an aromatic pop; jarred garlic is an easy alternative if you’re short on time.
Seasonings – basic staples (salt, black pepper, paprika) enhance the flavors beautifully.
Butter – 1 tablespoon for sautéing veggies, adding richness to the mix.
Optional Add-ins
Vegetables – consider mixing in frozen peas, corn, or even jalapeños for extra nutrition and flair.
Bacon – crumbled bacon adds a smoky flavor that elevates the dish.
Crunchy Topping – combine crushed crackers with melted butter for a delightful crunch on top.

With these ingredients, your Chicken Spaghetti Bake is destined to be a hit at the dinner table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Bake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for your creamy chicken spaghetti bake. While the oven heats, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a light coating of butter to prevent sticking. This will help achieve a beautifully golden crust on your casserole.

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti
In a large pot, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside, allowing it to cool slightly. This step is crucial, as overcooked spaghetti may turn mushy when combined with the creamy mixture.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Grab a large skillet and melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add in ½ cup of chopped onion, ½ cup of chopped green bell pepper, and 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté these vegetables for about 5 minutes until they become tender and fragrant, stirring occasionally to avoid burning. This aromatic blend forms the flavor base for your chicken spaghetti bake.

Step 4: Mix the Creamy Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine one can each of cream of mushroom soup and cream of chicken soup, along with 1 cup of chicken broth and 1 cup of sour cream. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring everything is well incorporated. This rich filling is the essence of your creamy chicken spaghetti bake, bringing together all the delicious flavors.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Once the creamy mixture is ready, gently stir in 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken, the sautéed vegetables, and seasonings like salt, black pepper, and paprika to taste. Mix everything until well combined, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully, which will enhance the overall taste of your chicken spaghetti bake.

Step 6: Toss in the Spaghetti
Now add the cooked spaghetti to your creamy chicken mixture. Using tongs or a large spoon, carefully toss the spaghetti with the filling until every strand is evenly coated. This step ensures that the flavors are distributed throughout the dish, creating that irresistible creamy chicken spaghetti bake you’re looking for.

Step 7: Transfer to Baking Dish
Transfer the loaded mixture into your greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Make sure to press down gently to avoid air pockets, which helps the casserole cook uniformly. The even layer will ensure that every bite of your chicken spaghetti bake is deliciously creamy and hearty.

Step 8: Add Cheese Toppings
Sprinkle 1 cup each of shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese generously over the top of the casserole. This cheesy layer not only adds flavor but also creates a beautiful, gooey crust as it bakes. Ensure even coverage for the best melted texture when it comes out of the oven.

Step 9: Bake the Casserole
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the creamy chicken spaghetti bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it and remove the foil if the top starts to brown too quickly. It’s done when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, creating a mouth-watering crust that beckons to be served.

Step 10: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to cut into portions. Serve this comforting creamy chicken spaghetti bake warm, and watch your family’s faces light up with delight!

What to Serve with Easy Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Nothing pairs better with a family favorite than delightful sides that complement its creamy goodness.

Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery crunch of garlic bread is perfect for sopping up the delicious sauce, adding a savory touch to your meal.
Simple Green Salad: A refreshing mix of crisp greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes dressed lightly balances the richness of the casserole, creating a delightful contrast.
Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds a fresh, vibrant color and crunchy texture, while also providing a nutritious boost to your dinner table.
Roasted Asparagus: Tender, roasted asparagus seasoned with lemon and garlic enhances the overall meal, bringing brightness and elegance to the hearty casserole.
Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing of a classic Caesar salad mirrors the comforting feel of the casserole while adding a zesty kick with each bite.
Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing bowl of seasonal fruits offers a sweet contrast after the warm meal, providing a perfect ending to your dining experience.
Cold Beverage: Pair your casserole with a chilled glass of lemonade or iced tea to cleanse the palate and enhance the hearty flavors of your meal.

Each of these accompaniments helps to elevate your Easy Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole to new heights, ensuring a memorable family dinner!

Expert Tips for Chicken Spaghetti Bake

Rotisserie Chicken: Utilize rotisserie chicken to save time and still achieve a flavorful base in your chicken spaghetti bake.
Vegetable Sautéing: Always sauté your vegetables until softened; this step prevents any unpleasant crunchiness in the finished casserole.
Adjust Soup Ratios: Be mindful of the soup mixture; too little may lead to a dry bake, while too much can make it overly soupy.
Mixing Techniques: Use a large mixing bowl to prevent spills when combining ingredients, ensuring every bite of your chicken spaghetti bake is full of flavor.
Cooling Pasta: Let the cooked spaghetti cool slightly before mixing; this helps reduce excess steam and moisture that could lead to a soggy dish.
Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a kick or cream cheese for an extra creaminess in your chicken spaghetti bake.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Casseroles are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the entire dish and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply complete steps 1 through 6, then cover the assembled casserole tightly with plastic wrap to maintain freshness. For added convenience, this dish also freezes well, either unbaked or as leftovers, for up to 3 months—just be sure to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. When you’re ready to serve, remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking for even results. You’ll enjoy a delicious and hearty meal with minimal effort!

Chicken Spaghetti Bake Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize your chicken spaghetti bake with these exciting twists that will tantalize your taste buds!

Spicy Kick: Mix in jalapeños for a fiery flavor boost that’ll warm you up on those chilly nights.
A little heat goes a long way in transforming this comforting dish into something adventurous!
Nutritious Add-Ins: Toss in frozen peas or corn to add colors and nutrients without compromising on taste.
Not only do they brighten up the dish, but they also bring a delightful pop of sweetness.
Savory Bacon: Crumble cooked bacon into the mixture for a smoky depth that makes every bite irresistible.
There’s nothing like a sprinkle of bacon to elevate your casserole to new heights of deliciousness!
Different Proteins: Swap out chicken for turkey or ham to switch things up and cater to your preference.
Each option brings a unique flavor, allowing you to enjoy this dish even more often!
Crunchy Topping: For a delightful texture, top your casserole with crushed crackers mixed with melted butter before baking.
This crunchy layer adds a satisfying contrast to the creamy base that your family will love.
Cheesy Variations: Experiment with different cheeses, like pepper jack for a spicy twist or gouda for a rich, smoky flavor.
Feel free to mix it up with your cheese options, creating an entirely new dish with each bake!

For more delightful meal ideas, check out my Chicken Broccoli Alfredo or indulge in the comforting goodness of Baked Cream Cheese Chicken.

How to Store and Freeze Chicken Spaghetti Bake

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This creamy chicken spaghetti bake tastes just as good reheated!

Freezer: You can freeze the casserole, either unbaked or after baking, for up to 3 months. Be sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes if already baked.

Make-Ahead: Assemble the chicken spaghetti bake ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking for a convenient meal option!

Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Bake Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken works best for the casserole?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver and adds rich flavor to your creamy chicken spaghetti bake. If you prefer, you can also use leftover cooked chicken or quickly sauté your own in the skillet if you have the time.

How do I store leftovers, and how long will they last?
You can store leftovers of this creamy chicken spaghetti bake in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3 days. It reheats beautifully in the oven or microwave—just make sure to cover it to keep moisture in while warming.

Can I freeze the chicken spaghetti bake?
Yes! You can freeze your casserole either unbaked or after baking it for up to 3 months. If freezing unbaked, simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to bake, just thaw it overnight in the fridge and proceed with the cooking instructions as normal.

What should I do if my casserole is too dry?
If you find that your creamy chicken spaghetti bake is too dry, the most common reason is not enough sauce. To remedy this, you can add a little extra chicken broth or more cream soup before baking. If it’s already baked, consider adding a drizzle of chicken broth right before reheating—it can help restore moisture and flavor!

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
For those with allergies, make sure to check the labels on the cream soups and the cheeses you choose, as some brands may contain allergens. This dish isn’t recommended for pets, particularly due to the richness and possible seasonings. You can customize the ingredients for dietary preferences, swapping in gluten-free pasta or dairy-free cheese to make it suitable for various diets.