Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Bake

Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor—this comforting classic is a crowd-pleaser for any day of the week.

The Ultimate Comfort Food Classic

When it comes to casseroles that never go out of style, Chicken Spaghetti Bake ranks near the top. This dish combines tender spaghetti noodles with creamy soup bases, shredded chicken, and lots of melty cheese. It’s the perfect recipe for weeknight dinners, potlucks, family gatherings, or a hearty meal prep dish to keep on hand.

What makes this dish truly special is its versatility—you can swap ingredients, spice it up, or make it healthier depending on your preferences. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or impressing guests, this chicken spaghetti bake hits all the right notes: comforting, flavorful, and easy to prepare.

 Ingredients (Serves 6)

These measurements are based on US cup standards for consistency and ease:

• 12 oz spaghetti (uncooked)

• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!)

• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup

• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup

• 1 cup sour cream

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)

• ½ cup diced green bell pepper

• ½ cup diced onion

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• ¼ cup chicken broth (optional, for thinning)

 Step-by-Step Instructions

Below is a detailed breakdown of how to prepare this dish so it’s creamy, cheesy, and baked to perfection:

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

This step ensures the bake doesn’t stick and achieves a golden crust around the edges.

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

• Add 12 oz of spaghetti and cook until al dente, following the package directions (usually about 8–10 minutes).

• Drain and set aside.

Tip: Don’t overcook the pasta—it will continue cooking in the oven.

Step 3: Sauté the Veggies

• Heat a skillet over medium heat.

• Add a bit of olive oil or butter, then sauté ½ cup diced green bell pepper and ½ cup diced onion for about 4–5 minutes, or until softened and slightly translucent.

This sauté step adds extra depth and sweetness to your bake.

Step 4: Mix the Creamy Sauce

• In a large mixing bowl, combine:

  • 1 can cream of chicken soup

  • 1 can cream of mushroom soup

  • 1 cup sour cream

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • 1 tsp paprika

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Mix until the sauce is completely smooth. You can thin the sauce slightly with ¼ cup chicken broth if it seems too thick.

Step 5: Combine Everything

• To the sauce bowl, add:

  • The cooked and drained spaghetti

  • 2 cups shredded chicken

  • The sautéed veggies

  • 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese

Mix thoroughly until everything is evenly coated.

Step 6: Assemble & Bake

• Pour the entire mixture into your prepared 9×13-inch baking dish.

• Smooth it out evenly with a spatula.

• Top with the remaining ½ cup cheddar cheese.

Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling around the edges.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy

• Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

• Garnish with fresh parsley or extra cheese if desired.

• Serve hot and enjoy with a fresh salad or garlic bread.

 Preparation Time & Nutritional Info

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 45 minutes

• Calories: ~450 kcal per serving (based on 6 servings)

 Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with sides like:

• Garlic bread

• Steamed broccoli

• Simple green salad

• Roasted Brussels sprouts

• Corn on the cob

You can also serve this casserole alongside fruit salad for a balanced dinner.

 Tips for the Perfect Chicken Spaghetti Bake

 Use Pre-Cooked Chicken

Save time by using leftover chicken or a store-bought rotisserie chicken. Just shred and you’re ready to go.

 Cheese Variations

Don’t feel limited to cheddar! Try Monterey Jack, Colby, or Mozzarella for added richness. A sprinkle of Parmesan over the top can enhance the flavor even more.

 Spice It Up

Want some heat? Add:

• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper

• Diced jalapeños

• Red pepper flakes

 Add Veggies

Make it more nutritious by adding:

• Spinach (stir into the sauce)

• Mushrooms (sauté with the peppers/onions)

• Zucchini or shredded carrots for added fiber and texture

 Make-Ahead Friendly

This dish can be assembled a day in advance, refrigerated, and baked right before serving.

 Freezer Instructions

• To Freeze: Assemble the casserole but don’t bake. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.

• To Bake from Frozen: Bake at 350°F for about 1 hour, uncover for the last 15 minutes.

 Recipe Variations

• Low-Carb Option: Swap spaghetti with spiralized zucchini or spaghetti squash.

• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure the soups are gluten-free certified.

• Extra Creamy: Stir in a bit of cream cheese or heavy cream to the sauce for extra richness.

• Southwest Style: Add black beans, corn, and taco seasoning for a Tex-Mex twist!

 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting & satisfying: It’s cheesy, creamy, and loaded with savory flavor.

• Family-approved: Even picky eaters love it!

• Flexible: Add, swap, or adjust ingredients to fit your pantry.

• Quick & Easy: A great go-to weeknight meal with minimal prep.

• Make-Ahead & Freezer-Friendly: Perfect for meal planning or leftovers.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Bake is more than just a casserole—it’s a plate of pure comfort. Whether you’re cooking for your family, bringing a dish to a potluck, or looking for a simple way to use leftover chicken, this recipe will never let you down.

It’s the kind of dish you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation. The creamy texture, cheesy topping, and hearty ingredients are always a hit. Plus, it reheats beautifully, making it just as good the next day (if not better!).

So next time you’re craving a cozy, home-cooked meal, this chicken spaghetti bake is the answer.