Chicken Spaghetti

Homemade Chicken Spaghetti is a creamy, cheesy, and hearty dish perfect for family dinners. With tender shredded chicken, al dente spaghetti, and a rich, flavorful cheese sauce, this recipe is simple to make yet comforting and satisfying. Ideal for busy weeknights or gatherings, it’s a dish everyone will love.

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

• 8 ounces spaghetti
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 14 ounces canned diced tomatoes with chilies (such as Rotel) or petite diced tomatoes, lightly drained

For the Sauce:

• ¼ cup salted butter
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ½ green bell pepper, chopped
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup half and half or light cream
• ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
• ¼ teaspoon salt, more to taste
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper, more to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook spaghetti in salted water according to package directions until al dente; drain well.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until tender.
4. Stir in flour and Italian seasoning; cook 1-2 minutes.
5. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and half and half until smooth. Bring to a boil for 1 minute until thick and bubbly.
6. Remove from heat and whisk in Parmesan cheese, 1 cup cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper.
7. Combine cooked spaghetti, shredded chicken, sauce, and canned tomatoes; mix well.
8. Spread mixture into the prepared baking dish.
9. Top with remaining 1 cup cheddar cheese.
10. Bake for 25-30 minutes until hot and bubbly.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serve hot directly from the oven for the creamiest texture.
• Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh parsley for added flavor.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
• To freeze, assemble the casserole but do not bake. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Variations

• Spicy Chicken Spaghetti: Use diced tomatoes with extra chilies or add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper to the sauce.
• Vegetable Chicken Spaghetti: Add mushrooms, peas, or spinach for extra nutrition.
• Cheese Variations: Swap sharp cheddar for Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or Colby cheese for a different flavor.
• Creamier Sauce: Use full cream instead of half-and-half for a richer texture.
• Healthier Option: Reduce cheese and use half-and-half or light cream. Add extra vegetables to increase fiber content.
• Slow Cooker Version: Combine all ingredients except cheese in a slow cooker on low for 3–4 hours, then stir in cheese before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken? Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves prep time.
2. Can this recipe be made ahead? Yes, assemble the casserole and refrigerate for a few hours before baking.
3. Can I use gluten-free spaghetti? Yes, gluten-free spaghetti can be used without affecting the dish.
4. How can I make the sauce creamier? Add an extra ¼ cup of half-and-half or cream.
5. Can I use a different cheese? Yes, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Colby work well.
6. Can this dish be frozen? Yes, freeze before baking and thaw in the fridge before cooking.
7. How long can leftovers be stored? Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
8. Can I add more vegetables? Yes, mushrooms, peas, spinach, or bell peppers are great additions.
9. How can I make it spicier? Add jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or use spicy diced tomatoes.
10. Can this be made in a slow cooker? Yes, combine ingredients without cheese, cook on low 3–4 hours, then stir in cheese.

This Homemade Chicken Spaghetti is a comforting, cheesy, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Easy to make, full of flavor, and loved by both kids and adults, it’s a versatile dish you can customize with vegetables, spices, or different cheeses. Serve hot, enjoy immediately, or store leftovers for an easy and delicious meal later.

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