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We all have those busy weeknights when we need dinner on the table fast, and you’re probably thinking it has to be another boring pasta dish, right? But I want you to have the most comforting, crowd-pleasing option in your recipe box.
This Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti is my absolute favorite weeknight family dinner recipe. It transforms simple ingredients into a creamy, cheesy, and comforting pasta casserole that makes everyone at the table happy and asking for seconds.
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Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti
This ultimate chicken spaghetti recipe delivers all the comfort of southern comfort food pasta but with the convenience of easy week night dinners families actually want to eat. The combination of tender shredded cooked chicken breast, al dente spaghetti, and a mouthwatering blend of creamy, cheesy, and spicy flavors creates the most satisfying one-pan chicken spaghetti experience.
It’s perfect for easy cheap dinner ideas and simple fast dinner ideas that also work beautifully as easy meals to feed a crowd. This definitely ranks among the best 90s dinner recipes that brings back all those nostalgic comfort food flavors in a modern, convenient format.
Ingredients for Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti
Getting your ingredients ready for this simple cheesy chicken spaghetti is so satisfying because you know you’re about to create something that combines convenience with incredible flavor.
What You’ll Need
For the Base:
- 12 oz spaghetti noodles
- 2 cups diced or shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie works perfectly)
- 1 can (10 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chiles (Rotel)
- 8 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1 cup shredded fiesta blend cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Topping:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Why These Ingredients Matter
The magic of this best chicken spaghetti recipe lies in the combination of Velveeta cheese sauce and cream of chicken soup, which creates that signature creamy base that coats every strand of pasta perfectly. Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds incredible flavor, while the Rotel tomatoes and green chiles provide that subtle kick that makes this more than just basic pasta. The gooey melted cheddar topping creates that irresistible golden finish that makes this look as good as it tastes, similar to the cheese techniques I use in my cheesy chicken pasta.
Instructions for Making Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente, drain and set aside.
Step 2: In a large skillet, sauté diced onion and bell pepper until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add cream of chicken soup, Rotel tomatoes, chicken broth, and cubed Velveeta to the skillet. Stir constantly over medium heat until the cheese melts and creates a smooth sauce.
Step 4: Add the cooked chicken and fiesta blend cheese, stirring until everything is well combined and the cheese is melted.
Step 5: Add the cooked spaghetti to the cheese mixture and toss until every strand is coated with that creamy chicken spaghetti casserole goodness.
Step 6: Transfer everything to your prepared baking dish. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter.
Step 7: Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving, garnished with fresh parsley.
Hint: Don’t skip the resting time after baking! This allows the cheese sauce to set up properly so it doesn’t run all over the plate when you serve it.
Top Tip
The secret to perfect Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti is controlling the consistency of your cheese sauce. If it seems too thick, add a bit more chicken broth; if it’s too thin, simmer uncovered for a few minutes to reduce it.
Always melt the Velveeta over medium heat to prevent it from becoming grainy, and make sure your pasta is properly drained to avoid a watery casserole. For the most authentic southern comfort food pasta experience, let the flavors meld together for a few minutes before baking, just like the layering technique I use in my san giorgio lasagna recipe.
My Chicken Spaghetti Legacy
This recipe has been a lifesaver during some of our busiest family seasons. I remember the first time I made it was during a particularly hectic week when everyone had different schedules and I needed something that would reheat well for whoever came home hungry. Grandma watched me frantically trying to plan seven different meals and just shook her head with that knowing smile.
“Jazzy,” she said, pulling out her old casserole dish, “sometimes the best family meals are the ones that bring everyone together, no matter what time they get home.” She taught me that this simple chicken spaghetti recipe wasn’t just about feeding people – it was about creating a meal that felt like a warm hug after a long day.
The first time I served it, my family gathered around the table and we ended up having one of our best conversations in weeks. Now this baked cheesy chicken spaghetti has become our go-to for busy seasons, and I always think of Grandma’s wisdom about meals that bring people together every time that golden, bubbly dish comes out of the oven.
Substitutions for Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti
If you need to adapt this italian chicken spaghetti for different tastes or dietary needs, here are substitutions that maintain that incredible comfort food appeal.
Velveeta cheese – cream cheese mixed with shredded cheddar creates a similar creamy texture, or use a cheese sauce made from butter, flour, and milk for a more traditional approach.
Rotisserie chicken – leftover grilled chicken, baked chicken thighs, or even ground chicken work beautifully. For a shortcut, use canned chicken (drained and flaked).
Rotel tomatoes – regular diced tomatoes plus a small can of green chiles gives you control over the spice level, or use fresh tomatoes and jalapeños for a more customized flavor.
Spaghetti noodles – penne, rotini, or any sturdy pasta shape works well for this kid-friendly chicken pasta recipe, similar to the pasta choices I use in my creamy white cheddar chicken pasta.
Variations on Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti
This versatile comfort food recipes casseroles creation adapts beautifully to different preferences while maintaining that signature creamy, cheesy appeal.
Cheesy chicken spaghetti with Velveeta – this is already the base recipe, but you can double the Velveeta for extra creaminess and that classic processed cheese flavor.
Old fashioned chicken spaghetti recipe – use real cheddar throughout instead of processed cheese, and add a homemade white sauce base for a more traditional approach.
Rotel chicken spaghetti – increase the Rotel to two cans for more tomato flavor and spice, perfect for those who love that Tex-Mex influence.
Chicken casserole recipes healthy – use whole wheat pasta, low-fat cheese, and add extra vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for added nutrition.
Sides that go with chicken – serve with a simple green salad and garlic bread to make this a complete cheap simple dinners solution, similar to how I round out my creamy smothered chicken rice meals.
Equipment for Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti
A large 9×13-inch baking dish is essential for this recipe – ceramic or glass work best for even heating and beautiful presentation. A large skillet or Dutch oven makes combining all the ingredients much easier and prevents spills.
A good colander for draining pasta properly is crucial because excess water will thin out your cheese sauce. Having a large mixing spoon or pasta fork helps combine everything without breaking the noodles.
Don’t forget aluminum foil if you need to keep this warm for a potluck or family gathering – this recipe travels well and stays delicious even when held at temperature.
Storage Tips for Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti
Refrigeration:
- Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
- This baked chicken spaghetti actually improves in flavor overnight as the seasonings meld
- Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole dish in a 300°F oven
Freezing:
- Freeze unbaked for up to 3 months – assemble, cover tightly, and freeze
- Thaw overnight in refrigerator before baking
- Add 10-15 minutes to baking time if going directly from frozen
- Perfect for fast weeknight dinners families can rely on
Make-ahead tip: Prepare everything through step 5, cover and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it perfect for great chicken recipes meal planning.
Grandma’s Secret for Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti
Grandma’s secret ingredient was a splash of heavy cream stirred into the cheese sauce just before adding the pasta. “It makes everything silky smooth, Jazzy,” she’d explain while pouring just a tablespoon or two. “Gives it that restaurant quality without any fuss.” That little bit of cream prevents the cheese from becoming stringy and creates the most luxurious texture.
Her other trick? She always saved a cup of the starchy pasta water before draining and added it back if the mixture seemed too thick. This helps everything bind together perfectly and creates that ideal saucy consistency that coats every noodle.
This golden, bubbling casserole showcases Grandma’s cream secret with perfectly melted cheese and that irresistible crispy-topped finish.
FAQ about Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti
What all goes in chicken spaghetti?
Traditional chicken spaghetti includes cooked chicken, spaghetti noodles, cream of chicken soup, diced tomatoes (often Rotel), cheese, and vegetables like onions and peppers. This rotel recipes variation creates that perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy flavors that defines the dish.
Does chicken taste good in spaghetti?
Absolutely! Chicken and pasta are a classic combination, especially when combined with creamy cheese sauces. The mild flavor of chicken pairs beautifully with the rich, cheesy elements in this chicken spaghetti casserole, creating a comforting dish that appeals to all ages.
What kind of cheese is good in chicken spaghetti?
Velveeta creates the smoothest, creamiest sauce, while cheddar adds sharp flavor and great melting properties. Many recipes use a combination like this one – Velveeta for creaminess and cheddar for flavor and that gorgeous golden top. Processed cheeses work especially well because they melt smoothly without separating.
What is the secret to good spaghetti?
The secret is properly cooking the pasta to al dente (it will finish cooking in the oven), creating a smooth cheese sauce without lumps, and not over-baking. This creamy chicken spaghetti casserole technique ensures every element maintains its perfect texture while the flavors meld together beautifully.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti has earned its place as our family’s most-requested comfort food, and I have a feeling it’s about to become yours too. There’s something magical about a dish that can turn the chaos of a busy evening into a peaceful family dinner around the table. The best part? Tomorrow’s leftovers might just be better than tonight’s fresh serving.
If you’re interested in exploring more comforting chicken and pasta combinations, this Chicken Spaghetti Casserole recipe offers another delicious take on this classic comfort food. I’d love to hear how this recipe works for your family – do you add any special touches that make it your own?
Jasmine 💛
Grandma’s Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti
Equipment
- 1 9×13-inch Baking DishGrandma's old ceramic one is my favorite for this recipe
- 1 Large Skillet or Dutch OvenFor making that luscious, creamy cheese sauce
- 1 Large PotFor cooking the spaghetti.
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti noodles
- 2 cups cooked chicken Diced or shredded. A rotisserie chicken is a perfect shortcut!
- 1 can10 oz cream of chicken soup
- 1 can10 oz diced tomatoes with green chiles We always use Rotel for that perfect little kick.
- 8 oz Velveeta cheese Cubed. Grandma swore by it for the creamiest sauce.
- 1 cup shredded fiesta blend cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 medium onion Diced.
- 1 bell pepper Diced.
- 2 cloves garlic Minced.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese For the topping.
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs For that irresistible crunchy top.
- 2 tablespoons butter Melted, for the topping.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley Chopped, for garnish.
Instructions
- Let's get started. First, preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Get your [spaghetti noodles] cooking according to the package directions until they're just al dente. They'll finish cooking in the oven.
- In a large skillet, sauté the diced [onion] and [bell pepper] until they're soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes. There's no better smell in the kitchen! Add the minced [garlic] and cook for one more minute.
- Now for the heart of the dish. To the skillet, add the [cream of chicken soup], [diced tomatoes with green chiles], [chicken broth], and the cubed [Velveeta cheese]. Stir this constantly over medium heat. Grandma always said to be patient here, letting the cheese melt slowly until the sauce is perfectly smooth.
- Once your sauce is velvety smooth, stir in the [cooked chicken] and the [shredded fiesta blend cheese]. Keep stirring until it's all melted and happy. Now, add the drained spaghetti to the skillet. Toss it all together until every single noodle is coated in that glorious sauce.
- Pour the spaghetti mixture into your prepared baking dish. In a small bowl, toss the [panko breadcrumbs] with the [melted butter], then mix in the [shredded cheddar cheese]. Sprinkle this crunchy, cheesy topping all over the casserole.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until it's bubbly around the edges and beautifully golden on top. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving, this helps the sauce set up. Garnish with a sprinkle of [fresh parsley]. This is the meal Grandma taught me was like a "warm hug," and I hope your family feels it too.
Notes
- Grandma’s Secrets: For the most luxurious, silky sauce, stir in a splash (1-2 tablespoons) of heavy cream just before adding the pasta. Her other trick was to save a cup of the starchy pasta water; if the sauce seems too thick, add a little pasta water to thin it out perfectly.
- Make-Ahead Tip: You can assemble the entire casserole (without the breadcrumb topping) up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate. Add the topping just before baking and add 10-15 minutes to the cook time.
- Serving Suggestion: This is a wonderful one-dish meal, but it’s fantastic with a simple green salad and some garlic bread on the side.
- Storage: Leftovers are a treasure! Store covered in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors get even better the next day.
