Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe That Everyone Loves

When it comes to comforting, family-style meals, few dishes can compete with classic chicken spaghetti casserole. This creamy, cheesy, and flavorful pasta bake is the perfect combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked spaghetti, and a rich, savory sauce that bakes to bubbly perfection. It’s hearty enough for a Sunday dinner, yet easy enough to whip up on a busy weeknight.

What makes this chicken spaghetti so special is its blend of textures and flavors—the gooey cheddar cheese, the mild kick from cayenne pepper, and the creamy mushroom base come together in a dish that truly pleases a crowd. It’s freezer-friendly, make-ahead approved, and guaranteed to become a family favorite at potlucks, holidays, and dinner tables everywhere.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Spaghetti

• Ultimate Comfort Food: Creamy, cheesy, and cozy—a true family favorite.

• Feeds a Crowd: Perfect for large families, potlucks, or meal prepping.

• Freezer-Friendly: Make one for tonight and one to freeze for later.

• Balanced Flavors: Slightly spicy, perfectly creamy, and deeply satisfying.

• Customizable: Easy to adapt with different cheeses, veggies, or spice levels.

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s what you’ll need for this easy chicken spaghetti casserole:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded – You can use boiled chicken, rotisserie chicken, or leftover roasted chicken.

• 3 cups dry spaghetti – Broken into smaller pieces for easier eating.

• 2 cans cream of mushroom soup – The creamy base that makes this casserole irresistible.

• 2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese, divided – Sharp cheddar balances the richness of the sauce.

• 1/4 cup green pepper, finely diced – Adds freshness and a subtle crunch.

• 1/4 cup onion, finely diced – Brings savory depth to the casserole.

• 1 jar (4 oz) diced pimentos, drained – A touch of color and tang.

• 2 cups chicken broth – Reserved from cooking the chicken, adds rich flavor.

• 1 tsp Lawry’s Seasoned Salt – The perfect seasoning shortcut.

• 1/8–1/4 tsp cayenne pepper – Optional, for a mild spicy kick.

• Salt and pepper, to taste – Adjusted to your preference.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Chicken Spaghetti

• Cook pasta al dente: Overcooking spaghetti will make the casserole mushy since it bakes further.

• Use sharp cheddar: It cuts through the creaminess and gives the casserole a bold flavor.

• Make ahead: Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

• Double the recipe: Freeze one for a no-stress dinner later.

• Add a crispy topping: Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle on top before baking.

Variations and Customizations

• Chicken Alternatives: Swap with cooked turkey, ground beef, or Italian sausage.

• Veggie Boost: Add mushrooms, peas, broccoli, or spinach for extra nutrition.

• Extra Cheesy: Mix in mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a gooey, stretchy texture.

• Tex-Mex Twist: Add diced green chilies, black beans, or corn, and top with pepper jack cheese.

• Low-Carb Version: Use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of pasta.

Pairing Suggestions

• Sides: Garlic bread, side salad, or roasted vegetables complement this hearty dish.

• Beverages: Pair with iced tea, lemonade, or a crisp white wine.

• Dessert: Finish with chocolate chip cookies, apple crisp, or banana pudding.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

• Freezer: Wrap tightly in foil and freeze up to 6 months. Bake straight from frozen (add 15–20 extra minutes).

• Meal Prep Tip: Freeze in individual portions for quick lunches or dinners.

Popular Questions

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking a whole chicken?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. Just shred the meat to measure about 2 cups.

2. Can I substitute the cream of mushroom soup?
Yes, cream of chicken soup works well as a substitute if you’re not a fan of mushrooms.

3. Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes, this dish freezes beautifully! Assemble it in a casserole, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 6 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

4. Can I add other vegetables?
Feel free to add veggies like diced tomatoes, mushrooms, or even broccoli for extra flavor and nutrition.

5. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Cover and reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm, or microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes.

Caroline

Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

This hearty and comforting chicken spaghetti casserole combines tender chicken, creamy mushroom sauce, sharp cheddar cheese, and spaghetti noodles, baked into a golden, cheesy dish perfect for family dinners and potlucks.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 410

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 3 cups dry spaghetti, broken into 2-inch pieces
• 2 cans cream of mushroom soup
• 2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese, divided
• 1/4 cup green pepper, finely diced
• 1/4 cup onion, finely diced
• 1 jar (4 oz) diced pimentos, drained
• 2 cups chicken broth (reserved from cooking chicken)
• 1 tsp Lawry’s Seasoned Salt
• 1/8–1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Equipment

• large pot
• mixing bowls
• Casserole dish
• wooden spoon or spatula
• Cheese grater

Method

 

1. In a large pot, boil a whole fryer chicken (or chicken breasts/thighs) until fully cooked. Remove, cool slightly, shred into 2 cups of meat, and reserve 2 cups of broth.
2. In the reserved broth, cook spaghetti until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine spaghetti, shredded chicken, cream of mushroom soup, 1 cup cheddar cheese, green pepper, onion, pimentos, chicken broth, seasoned salt, cayenne, and salt and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
4. Pour mixture into a greased casserole dish. Top with remaining 1 cup cheddar cheese.
5. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 45 minutes, until bubbly and golden. If the cheese browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil.
6. Allow to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

For a creamier casserole, stir in a splash of heavy cream or sour cream before baking. Kids love this dish with a little extra cheese on top. Great recipe to double and freeze—perfect for busy families or new parents needing freezer meals.