This creamy chicken spaghetti bake is a warm and comforting dish that everyone will love. It’s packed with tender chicken, rich sauce, and cheesy goodness that pulls it all together!
Honestly, it’s a perfect one-dish meal for busy nights when you want something cozy and yummy. Just mix everything up, bake it, and watch everyone gather around the table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: This recipe calls for classic spaghetti, but you can switch it up with whole wheat spaghetti for a healthier option or even gluten-free pasta if needed. Just make sure to cook it according to the package directions.
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is my go-to for convenience, but you could also use leftover chicken or even turkey. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, sautéed mushrooms or tofu can do the trick!
Cream of Mushroom Soup: A staple for the creamy base, but if you prefer homemade, you can make a quick version with sautéed mushrooms, heavy cream, and some broth. If mushrooms aren’t your thing, cream of chicken soup works well too.
Sour Cream: For creaminess, sour cream is key but you could substitute with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist or dairy-free yogurt if you’re avoiding dairy.
Cheese: Cheddar brings a nice color and flavor, but you can swap it for mozzarella for a meltier texture or use pepper jack for a little kick. You can also mix different cheeses for richer flavor!
What’s the Best Way to Make Sure My Pasta Stays Firm?
To avoid mushy pasta, cook the spaghetti until al dente according to package instructions. This means it should be firm to the bite. Don’t forget to drain it right away to stop the cooking process. Rinsing briefly with cold water can also help keep it from sticking before adding it to the creamy mixture.
How Can I Ensure My Casserole is Well Blended and Flavored?
Mixing the creamy ingredients with the chicken and vegetables thoroughly is important to ensure every bite is flavorful. Use a large bowl and fold everything together gently to distribute the creamy mixture evenly throughout. Tasting the mixture beforehand allows you to adjust the seasoning to your liking before baking!
Feel free to experiment and make this creamy chicken spaghetti bake your own! It’s a versatile dish that’ll surely satisfy your cravings.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta and Base:
- 8 oz spaghetti pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
For the Vegetables:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup bell pepper, diced (optional)
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Finish:
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to bake, giving you a total of around 45 minutes from start to serving. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or spray it with cooking spray so the baking process is a breeze and nothing sticks.
2. Cook the Spaghetti:
While your oven is heating up, cook the spaghetti according to the package directions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside. This is a crucial step to ensure the pasta holds its texture when baked!
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms (if using) and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until you can smell that lovely aroma!
4. Mix the Creamy Sauce:
In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and mayonnaise (if you’re adding it for extra creaminess). Mix in ½ cup of the shredded cheddar cheese (you’ll use the rest later), the grated Parmesan cheese, thyme or Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything until it’s well blended.
5. Combine and Mix:
Add the cooked chicken, sautéed vegetables, and the drained spaghetti to the bowl of creamy sauce. Stir gently until everything is well coated in that delicious mixture.
6. Transfer and Top:
Pour the entire mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Finally, sprinkle the reserved cheddar cheese on top for that cheesy goodness.
7. Bake in the Oven:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes. You want the cheese to be melted, bubbly, and lightly golden—so keep an eye on it!
8. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, let the dish cool slightly, then garnish with fresh parsley if you like. Serve warm and enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!
This creamy chicken spaghetti bake is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a simple and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!
FAQ for Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Bake
Can I Use Raw Chicken Instead of Cooked?
While the recipe is designed for cooked chicken, you can use raw chicken! Simply cube it and sauté it in the skillet with the vegetables until fully cooked through, then proceed with the recipe as directed. Just make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
What Can I Substitute for Sour Cream?
If you want to substitute sour cream, you can use Greek yogurt for a tangy flavor. Alternatively, you could use cream cheese melted into the sauce for a rich and creamy texture.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the microwave or oven; ensure it’s heated through before serving again. If necessary, add a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Yes! This casserole freezes well. To freeze, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To bake it from frozen, simply increase the baking time and cover with foil until heated through.
Feel free to tweak this recipe to suit your taste, and enjoy the comforting delight of creamy chicken spaghetti bake!