Introduction

This Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for family dinners. It combines tender chicken, cheesy pasta, and a creamy sauce baked to golden perfection. Easy to prepare and sure to please all ages, it makes a satisfying weeknight dinner or potluck favorite.

Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or substitute with shrimp or mushrooms)
8 oz spaghetti (can use gluten-free pasta if preferred)
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (Monterey Jack works well for a milder flavor)
1 can cream of chicken soup (can substitute cream of mushroom soup for vegetarian option)
1 cup fresh bell peppers, chopped (any color)
0.25 cup green onions, sliced (or substitute chopped parsley)
1 tsp paprika (smoked paprika recommended)
0.5 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
1 tsp garlic powder (fresh minced garlic can be used)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease a large casserole dish to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
Step 2: In a large pot over medium heat, cook the chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Shred or chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces once cooked.
Step 3: In a separate large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
Step 4: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked spaghetti, cream of chicken soup, chopped bell peppers, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until evenly coated and well mixed.
Step 5: Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top.
Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese on top is melted and golden brown.
Step 7: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with the sliced green onions before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a splash of hot sauce or diced jalapeños to the mixture before baking.
Use Monterey Jack cheese for a milder, creamier taste if sharp cheddar feels too strong.
To make it vegetarian, substitute chicken with mushrooms and use cream of mushroom soup.
Try adding black olives or diced tomatoes for additional texture and flavor.

Storage

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave until warmed through, or cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes. Avoid freezing as the texture may change.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but be sure to thaw the chicken completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and food safety.

Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, simply use gluten-free spaghetti and verify that the cream soup you use is gluten-free.

Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 78 reviews

This Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a comforting, flavorful dish featuring tender chicken, perfectly cooked spaghetti, and a creamy, cheesy sauce baked to golden perfection. Ideal for a family dinner, it combines sharp cheddar cheese, bell peppers, and a hint of spice from paprika and cayenne pepper to create a rich and satisfying casserole.

Author: Daniel
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Casserole
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Pasta

1.5 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (or substitute with shrimp or mushrooms)
8 oz Spaghetti (can use gluten-free pasta if preferred)

Cheese and Soup

2 cups Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese (Monterey Jack works well for a milder flavor)
1 can Cream of Chicken Soup (can substitute cream of mushroom soup for vegetarian option)

Vegetables and Seasonings

1 cup Fresh Bell Peppers, chopped (any color)
0.25 cup Green Onions, sliced (or substitute chopped parsley)
1 tsp Paprika (smoked paprika recommended)
0.5 tsp Cayenne Pepper (adjust to taste)
1 tsp Garlic Powder (fresh minced garlic can be used)

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease a large casserole dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Cook the Chicken: In a large pot over medium heat, cook the boneless chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Once cooked, shred or chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Cook the Spaghetti: In a separate large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta well and set aside.
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked spaghetti, cream of chicken soup, chopped bell peppers, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is well incorporated and evenly coated with the sauce and spices.
Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top to create a cheesy crust once baked.
Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese on top is melted and golden brown.
Rest and Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to set. Before serving, garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh, vibrant touch.

Notes

You can substitute chicken with shrimp or mushrooms to make the dish pescatarian or vegetarian-friendly when using cream of mushroom soup.
Adjust the cayenne pepper quantity based on your preferred spice level.
Using smoked paprika adds a nice depth of flavor, but regular paprika works well too.
If you prefer a creamier casserole, add a splash of milk or cream when mixing ingredients.
For gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta and confirm cream soup is gluten-free.
Letting the casserole rest before serving allows it to set and makes slicing easier.

Keywords: chicken casserole, cheesy spaghetti, baked pasta, comfort food, shredded chicken, easy dinner