This Chicken Spaghetti Bake is a warm and cheesy dish that is super easy to make! With tender chicken, tasty spaghetti, and a creamy sauce, it’s a family favorite that everyone loves.
Honestly, it’s like a big hug on a plate! I usually add a sprinkle of herbs on top, and it’s perfect with a side salad. You’ll want to keep this one in your recipe book!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: Traditional spaghetti works best here because it combines well with the sauce. If you need a gluten-free option, try using gluten-free pasta or whole wheat spaghetti for a healthier twist.
Cooked Chicken: You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or leftovers from a previous meal. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, swap out the chicken for sautéed mushrooms or a can of chickpeas for added protein.
Mozzarella Cheese: While mozzarella gives that gooey texture, you can also use cheddar cheese or a blend of cheeses if you want a different flavor. For a lighter option, try low-fat cheese.
Canned Diced Tomatoes: If you don’t have tomatoes with green chilies, regular diced tomatoes can be used. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat.
Sour Cream: Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream if you’re looking for a healthier alternative. It adds creaminess and a bit of tang.
How Do I Bake It to Get that Perfectly Melted Cheese?
Getting that golden, bubbly cheese on top is a highlight of this dish! Here’s how to achieve perfectly melted cheese:
- Make sure to preheat your oven! This helps the cheese melt evenly.
- Cover the baking dish with foil for the first 15-20 minutes. This traps steam, keeping the dish moist before browning the cheese.
- Remove the foil in the last 10 minutes of baking. This allows the cheese to brown nicely!
Keep an eye on it to avoid overbaking. You want it bubbly and gently browned, not burnt. Let it rest a few minutes before serving to firm it up a bit. Enjoy your cheesy masterpiece!
Chicken Spaghetti Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bake:
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Rotel)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Time Needed:
This Chicken Spaghetti Bake takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then 25-30 minutes to bake. Total time is around 45 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Spaghetti:
Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which means it should be cooked but still firm to the bite. Drain the spaghetti and set it aside for later.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, toss in the chopped onion, green bell pepper (if you’re using it), and minced garlic. Sauté everything for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
4. Combine Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, sautéed vegetables, and the diced tomatoes with their juices. Then, add the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, chicken broth, chili powder (if you want a kick), salt, and pepper. Mix everything well until combined.
5. Add the Spaghetti and Cheese:
Now, stir in the cooked spaghetti and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese. Ensure the spaghetti is evenly coated in the sauce and everything is mixed nicely.
6. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Pour the spaghetti mixture into your greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly and then sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese on top.
7. Bake:
Put the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’re looking for the cheese to be melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once it’s baked to perfection, carefully remove it from the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve it warm and enjoy your comforting Chicken Spaghetti Bake!
You’ll find that this dish is packed with flavor, cheesy goodness, and a wonderful way to enjoy chicken and pasta in one meal!
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat spaghetti is a great option for added fiber, while gluten-free pasta works perfectly if you need to avoid gluten. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as needed according to the type of pasta you choose.
What Can I Use Instead of Cream of Mushroom Soup?
If you’re looking for a substitute, you can use cream of chicken soup or make your own homemade cream sauce using milk and a bit of flour for thickening. This keeps the dish creamy without relying on canned soup!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and add more veggies like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms. You can also throw in some cooked lentils or beans for added protein.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of broth if it seems a bit dry. Enjoy it again as a quick meal!
