This Chicken Spaghetti Bake is a cozy dish that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and twirly spaghetti, all baked to perfection. It’s like a warm hug on a plate!
I love how easy it is to throw together—just mix everything up and let the oven do the work. Perfect for a busy weeknight when you still want something comforting! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: I like using regular spaghetti for this bake, but you can swap it for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if needed. Just adjust the cooking time as some pasta cooks faster!
Cooked Chicken: Using shredded rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut! You can also use leftover chicken or turkey, or even canned chicken if you’re in a pinch. If you’re vegetarian, try adding sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: Cream of chicken soup works well too! If you want a healthier option, consider using a homemade white sauce made from flour, butter, and milk. Dairy-free alternatives are also available in stores!
Cheese: Cheddar and mozzarella are my top picks for that gooey cheesy topping. Feel free to mix it up—Monterey Jack or a pepper jack can add a delicious twist. Vegan cheese can be used for a dairy-free version!
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Spaghetti Bake Stays Creamy?
Keeping your Chicken Spaghetti Bake creamy is all about balancing the moisture. To do this, make sure your cream of mushroom soup and milk are well combined before mixing with the pasta. This helps distribute the creaminess evenly.
- Don’t skip sautéing the onions and peppers—they add moisture and flavor!
- Watch the baking time; cooking too long can dry it out. A bubbly, golden top is ideal.
Lastly, letting it cool for a few minutes before serving helps set things up so every bite stays creamy!
Delicious Chicken Spaghetti Bake Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bake:
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes (optional)
- 1 (10-12 oz) can cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (optional)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chicken Spaghetti Bake will take you about 15 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’re looking at around 45-50 minutes before you’re ready to dig in to this delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s nice and hot when we’re ready to bake!
2. Cook the Spaghetti:
Boil a large pot of water and cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the spaghetti and set it aside. It’s okay if the pasta cools a bit!
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper (if you’re using it), and minced garlic. Sauté these for about 4-5 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant.
4. Mix Everything Together:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, shredded chicken, sautéed vegetables, diced tomatoes (if you’re including them), cream of mushroom soup, milk, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined.
5. Layer the Ingredients:
Pour half of the spaghetti mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Then sprinkle half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheese over this layer.
6. Add More Spaghetti:
Next, spread the remaining spaghetti mixture over the cheese layer smoothly.
7. Top It Off with Cheese:
Finally, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheeses evenly on top. This will give you that beautiful, gooey finish once it’s baked!
8. Bake!
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
9. Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This helps it set up a bit. Before serving, garnish with some chopped fresh parsley for a lovely touch!
Your hearty Chicken Spaghetti Bake is ready to serve! It’s creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor—perfect for a family dinner. Enjoy every mouthful! 🍽️
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! You can substitute regular spaghetti with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as gluten-free pasta can cook faster than traditional options.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Yes, if you enjoy a kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the mixture! This will help enhance the flavor without overpowering the dish.
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftover Chicken Spaghetti Bake! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F until warmed through.
What Should I Serve with This Dish?
This bake pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or garlic bread on the side. You can also serve it with steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal!
