Spaghetti Chicken Casserole

This creamy, cheesy Spaghetti Chicken Casserole is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or make-ahead meals. Combining shredded chicken, tender pasta, colorful bell peppers, and a rich, savory sauce, it’s the ultimate comfort food that will please even the pickiest eaters. Easy to make and packed with flavor, this casserole is sure to become a new favorite in your dinner rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Spaghetti Chicken Casserole is a hearty, all-in-one meal that offers a delicious mix of creamy textures and savory flavors. The combination of tender spaghetti, shredded chicken, and a creamy sauce made with cream of mushroom and cream of chicken soups creates a rich base. The colorful bell peppers and diced tomatoes with green chilies bring a hint of freshness and spice, while the melted cheddar cheese on top ties everything together perfectly. It’s a simple, fuss-free recipe that comes together in under an hour, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead meal, and the leftovers are just as tasty!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded

• 12 oz spaghetti, cooked and drained

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup

• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained

• 1 cup chopped green bell pepper

• 1 cup chopped red bell pepper

• 1/2 cup chopped onion

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp black pepper

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp paprika

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Prepare the Sauce:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.

3. Add the Vegetables and Chicken:
   Add the shredded chicken, drained diced tomatoes with green chilies, chopped green and red bell peppers, chopped onion, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the soup mixture. Stir to combine.

4. Combine with Spaghetti:
   Fold in the cooked and drained spaghetti until the noodles are fully coated in the creamy mixture.

5. Assemble the Casserole:
   Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.

6. Bake the Casserole:
   Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese has melted and turned golden brown. For an extra crispy topping, broil for 2–3 minutes.

7. Serve:
   Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this creamy, cheesy comfort food with your family!

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 35 minutes

• Total Time: 55 minutes

• Servings: 8 servings

Variations

• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free spaghetti and soups for a gluten-free alternative.

• Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker and more flavorful option, use rotisserie chicken.

• Less Spice: If you prefer less spice, substitute plain diced tomatoes for the ones with green chilies.

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and add more vegetables, such as mushrooms or zucchini, for a vegetarian version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: This casserole freezes well, making it a great option for meal prep. Freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes, or until heated through.

• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or oven until hot. If reheating in the oven, cover with foil to prevent the cheese from over-browning.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute Havarti, mozzarella, or a blend of your favorite cheeses for the cheddar.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Just refrigerate it and bake it when you’re ready to serve.

3. Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for extra nutrition.

4. How do I avoid the casserole becoming too dry?

Ensure you don’t over-bake the casserole. It should be bubbly and golden on top, but still creamy inside.

5. Can I make this casserole in a smaller pan?

Yes, you can halve the recipe and use a smaller baking dish if needed.

6. How can I make this casserole spicier?

Add more chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to increase the heat level.

7. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any pasta shape, such as penne or rigatoni, in place of spaghetti.

8. How long will this casserole keep in the refrigerator?

This casserole will keep for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

9. Can I freeze this casserole after baking?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole after it’s baked. Just let it cool completely before wrapping and freezing it.

10. How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make this recipe dairy-free, use dairy-free cheese, sour cream, and a dairy-free cream of mushroom soup.

Conclusion

This creamy Spaghetti Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that combines familiar, delicious ingredients into a filling and satisfying dish. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner, a family meal, or a potluck. With its savory chicken, tender pasta, vibrant peppers, and gooey cheese, this casserole is sure to become a household favorite. Plus, it’s easily customizable, making it a versatile option for any dietary preferences. Enjoy this hearty dish with your loved ones

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