This Easy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for busy nights. It combines tender chicken, spaghetti, and creamy sauce all baked together.
If you’re like me, you love a meal that’s yummy and quick. Just mix everything in a dish, pop it in the oven, and let it do its thing. Plus, leftovers make for an awesome lunch!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: I recommend using regular spaghetti for the best texture. You can substitute with any pasta shapes like penne or rotini if you prefer. Just keep an eye on the cooking time!
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is my go-to for ease and flavor. Leftover turkey or any cooked chicken works well too. You can also use canned chicken if you’re in a pinch.
Cream Soups: The cream of mushroom and chicken soups make the dish creamy. If you’re avoiding mushrooms, use two cans of cream of chicken instead. For healthier options, look for low-fat or homemade variants.
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess and tang. Greek yogurt is a great substitute if you’re looking for a healthier option or if you want a protein boost.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its strong flavor. Feel free to mix it up with Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a different taste profile.
How Do I Perfectly Cook the Spaghetti for Casserole?
Cooking spaghetti perfectly will elevate your casserole. You want it al dente (firm to the bite) so it holds up during baking. Here’s how:
- Use a large pot of salted water to boil the spaghetti, which helps flavor the pasta.
- Follow the package instructions but check for doneness one to two minutes early. It should be firm, not mushy.
- Drain the pasta and rinse it briefly with cold water to stop the cooking process.
This way, your spaghetti maintains the right texture in the casserole!
Easy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper (optional)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15 minutes for preparation and then 25 to 30 minutes to bake, totaling around 45 minutes to enjoy this delicious casserole from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole will bake evenly and turn out nice and bubbly!
2. Cook the Spaghetti:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package directions until it’s al dente (firm but cooked). Don’t forget to drain it afterward and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions, green bell pepper (if using), and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes, or until they are softened. This will add wonderful flavor to your casserole!
4. Prepare the Sauce:
In a big mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, and the cooked chicken. Stir in the sautéed vegetables along with half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Add salt, pepper, and paprika if you like a bit of spice. Mix everything together until well combined!
5. Combine with Spaghetti:
Add the cooked spaghetti to the mix and toss everything gently until the spaghetti is nicely coated with the creamy sauce.
6. Assemble the Casserole:
Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish, then pour the spaghetti mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly.
7. Add Cheese Toppings:
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese (if using) generously on top of the casserole. This will give it a delicious cheesy crust while baking!
8. Bake the Casserole:
Pop the casserole into your preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until it’s bubbly and the cheese is melted and lightly golden. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s out of the oven, let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This will help it set a little, making it easier to scoop onto plates. Enjoy your comforting Chicken Spaghetti Casserole!
Bon appétit!
FAQ for Easy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a healthy alternative. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as it may take longer to become al dente. For gluten-free options, use gluten-free spaghetti or another gluten-free pasta shape, and follow the package instructions for best results.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare this casserole a day in advance! Just assemble it, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, add an extra 10 minutes to the cooking time since it will be going into the oven cold.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions until hot.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Casserole?
Sure! You can add other vegetables like cooked broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrients and flavor. Just be sure to sauté them with the onions and peppers before adding to the mixture.
