Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

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If you’re looking for a creamy, cheesy, and absolutely delicious dinner, this Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is exactly what you need! Packed with tender shredded chicken, spaghetti, and a rich, cheesy sauce, this dish is the perfect comfort food for a family meal or a potluck.

With its hearty texture and bold flavors, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that can be made ahead, frozen, and reheated for busy weeknights. Plus, we’ll show you how to customize it with different ingredients, storage tips, and the most frequently asked questions to ensure it turns out perfect every time!

🍽️ Why You’ll Love This Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

✔️ Ultra-Cheesy & Creamy – The cheese sauce is smooth, rich, and melts beautifully over the spaghetti.
✔️ Hearty & Satisfying – Packed with chicken, pasta, and a creamy sauce, this dish is filling and flavorful.
✔️ Family-Friendly – Even picky eaters will love this cheesy goodness!
✔️ Make-Ahead & Freezer-Friendly – Prep it early and bake when needed.
✔️ Easily Customizable – Add veggies, swap cheeses, or spice it up!

🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Casserole:

  • 8 oz spaghetti (half a standard box)
  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works great!)
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1/2 onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 green bell pepper, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
  • 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
  • 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

For the Topping:

  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers)
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese

👉 Learn how to make the best shredded chicken here

🔥 How to Make Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

  1. Boil water in a large pot and cook spaghetti until al dente, about 1-2 minutes less than package directions.
  2. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

  1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Add chopped onions and bell pepper and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
  3. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

  1. Reduce heat to low and add cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, and chicken broth.
  2. Stir in paprika, black pepper, salt, and Italian seasoning.
  3. Mix well until smooth and simmer for 2 minutes.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cooked spaghetti, and creamy sauce.
  2. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until everything is well coated.
  3. Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 5: Add the Topping & Bake

  1. In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and parmesan cheese.
  2. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
  3. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
  4. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

🍽️ Servings & Timing

  • Servings: 6-8
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes

🌟 Recipe Variations & Additions

1. Spicy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

  • Add 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
  • Mix in diced jalapeños for extra spice.

2. Veggie-Loaded Casserole

  • Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or diced tomatoes for a fresh twist.

3. Bacon & Ranch Twist

  • Stir in 1/2 cup cooked crumbled bacon and 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning.

4. Gluten-Free Version

  • Use gluten-free pasta and cream soups to make this dish gluten-free.

🧊 Storage & Reheating Instructions

How to Store Leftovers

  • Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freezer: Wrap the unbaked casserole tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months.

How to Reheat

  • Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
  • Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warm.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! It saves time and adds great flavor.

2. What type of pasta works best?

Spaghetti is traditional, but you can use penne, fettuccine, or rotini.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

4. What’s the best cheese for this recipe?

A mix of cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan gives the best flavor and melt.

5. Can I add cream cheese?

Yes! Stir in 4 oz softened cream cheese for extra creaminess.

6. How do I keep my casserole from drying out?

Make sure to not overbake and add extra cheese or a splash of milk if needed.

7. Can I make this dairy-free?

Use dairy-free cheese, cream soups, and milk substitutes.

8. What sides go well with chicken spaghetti casserole?

Serve with garlic bread, salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

9. Can I use canned chicken?

Yes, but fresh or rotisserie chicken has better texture and flavor.

10. Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Combine everything in a slow cooker and cook on LOW for 4 hours.

🎉 Final Thoughts

This Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, loaded with cheesy, creamy goodness and tons of flavor. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, meal prep, or a cozy weekend meal, this easy casserole recipe is guaranteed to be a hit!

Have you tried this recipe? Let us know in the comments below! 😊🍽️

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