Delicious Chicken Spaghetti Casserole in 1 Hour

Name: Delicious Chicken Spaghetti Casserole in 1 Hour
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded; 8 oz dried spaghetti; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper; 1/2 cup diced onion; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

by Fenna Saul

August 20, 2025

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Chicken spaghetti casserole has been a staple in my family for as long as I can remember, bringing pure comfort to our dinner table. I still recall the aroma filling our kitchen on chilly evenings, a sign that a warm, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying meal was about to be served. This easy chicken spaghetti casserole is a true crowd-pleaser, and making it from scratch is surprisingly simple. It’s the kind of homemade chicken spaghetti casserole that just tastes better, with tender chicken and perfectly cooked spaghetti swimming in a luscious, creamy sauce. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

An incredibly delicious and satisfying taste that always hits the spot.
Ready in under an hour, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
Packed with protein from chicken, making it a more filling option.
A budget-friendly meal that uses common pantry staples.
Guaranteed to be a family favorite, even picky eaters love it!
This creamy chicken spaghetti casserole is pure comfort food bliss.
It’s a wonderfully versatile dish that can be adapted to your preferences.
You’ll adore this creamy chicken spaghetti casserole for its rich, cheesy flavor.

Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Ingredients

Gathering the right chicken spaghetti casserole ingredients is the first step to making this classic comfort food. You’ll need 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded, which provides the hearty protein base. For the pasta, we’re using 8 oz dried spaghetti, cooked to al dente so it holds its shape. The creamy sauce gets its richness from 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup and 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup – these are key to that signature flavor. For cheesiness, grab 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Don’t forget 1/2 cup sour cream for extra creaminess, and 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper and 1/2 cup diced onion for a touch of freshness. Seasonings are simple: 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. These ingredients combine to create a truly delightful dish.

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How to Make Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Making this chicken spaghetti casserole recipe is a straightforward process that guarantees a delicious outcome. Let’s walk through each step to create this comforting dish.

Step 1: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This prevents sticking and ensures easy serving.
Step 2: Cook the 8 oz dried spaghetti according to the package directions until it’s al dente – you want it tender but with a slight bite. Drain the spaghetti well and set it aside.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded with the 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup and the 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup.
Step 4: Stir in the 1/2 cup sour cream, 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper, and 1/2 cup diced onion. Add the seasonings: 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and fragrant.
Step 5: Now, add the drained spaghetti and 3/4 cup of the cheddar cheese to the chicken mixture. Gently stir everything until the spaghetti and cheese are evenly distributed throughout the creamy sauce.
Step 6: Pour the entire mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
Step 7: Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup cheddar cheese and the 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese over the top. This creates a beautiful, golden-brown cheesy crust.
Step 8: Bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the casserole is bubbly around the edges and the cheese on top is melted and golden brown. The aroma filling your kitchen will be amazing!
Step 9: Once out of the oven, let this chicken spaghetti casserole cool slightly for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to dish out. Learning how to make chicken spaghetti casserole this way ensures a perfect result every time.

Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Want to elevate your chicken spaghetti casserole game? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make all the difference.

Don’t overcook your spaghetti! It will continue to cook in the oven, and mushy pasta is no fun. Aim for just shy of al dente.
For an even creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or half-and-half to the soup mixture. It really enhances the richness.
If you have time, fresh shredded chicken is always better than pre-packaged. It has a more tender texture.
Don’t skimp on the cheese! A good mix of cheddar and Parmesan on top provides that perfect golden, bubbly crust.

What’s the secret to perfect chicken spaghetti casserole?

The key to a truly perfect chicken spaghetti casserole lies in the balance of creamy sauces and perfectly cooked pasta. Using both cream of mushroom and cream of chicken soup provides a depth of flavor, while ensuring the spaghetti isn’t overcooked prevents a watery dish. For more recipe inspiration, check out our full recipe collection.

Can I make chicken spaghetti casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the entire casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

How do I avoid common mistakes with chicken spaghetti casserole?

The most common issue is a watery casserole, often caused by overcooked pasta or too much liquid. Ensure your spaghetti is al dente. Also, resist the urge to add extra liquid unless absolutely necessary, as the cheese and soups will thicken as it bakes. Understanding food safety guidelines is crucial when preparing any dish.

Best Ways to Serve Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

This hearty dish is a meal in itself, but it pairs wonderfully with a few classic sides to create a truly satisfying meal. For a quintessential southern chicken spaghetti casserole experience, I love serving it alongside a fresh, crisp garden salad with a simple vinaigrette. It cuts through the richness of the casserole beautifully.

Another fantastic option is some crusty garlic bread. It’s perfect for soaking up any extra delicious sauce left in the dish. If you want a more complete meal, consider adding a side of steamed green beans or buttered corn. These simple additions complement the flavors without overpowering the star of the show. For a similar comforting dish, try our turkey meatloaf recipe.

Nutrition Facts for Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving for this delicious dish:

Calories: 420 calories
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Protein: 26g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 0mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more information on healthy eating, you might find resources on MyPlate helpful.

How to Store and Reheat Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

This amazing chicken spaghetti casserole is perfect for leftovers, making it a great option for meal prep or when you just want a delicious meal without the fuss. Once your casserole has cooled down completely, which typically takes about an hour, you can store it. For refrigeration, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it even longer, freezing is an excellent choice. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and they’ll be good in the freezer for up to 3 months. Consider trying our caramel brownie cheesecake recipe for dessert!

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is simple. For a quick chicken spaghetti casserole experience, you can microwave individual servings until heated through, usually about 1-2 minutes. For a texture closer to fresh-baked, reheat portions in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until bubbly and heated through. If reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight first for best results. This dish is a great alternative to our Korean BBQ meatballs.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

What is chicken spaghetti casserole?

Chicken spaghetti casserole is a classic American comfort food dish. It typically features cooked spaghetti noodles mixed with shredded chicken, a creamy sauce made from condensed soups, vegetables, and cheese, all baked together until bubbly and golden. It’s a hearty, satisfying meal that’s perfect for feeding a crowd.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Yes, absolutely! Chicken thighs are often more flavorful and stay moist, making them a great substitute. Just be sure to cook them until they are tender, then shred them as you would chicken breast. They’ll work perfectly in this casserole.

What can I add to chicken spaghetti casserole for extra flavor?

To boost the flavor, consider adding a can of Rotel (diced tomatoes and green chilies) for a little kick, or some sautéed mushrooms for an earthy depth. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives sprinkled on top just before serving also add a lovely fresh note to the dish. A great dip to serve alongside could be our boat dip Rotel ranch dip.

Why does my chicken spaghetti casserole with cream of mushroom soup taste bland?

If your chicken spaghetti casserole with cream of mushroom soup is tasting bland, it often means it needs more seasoning! Don’t be afraid to add more salt, pepper, and garlic powder. A pinch of onion powder or a dash of hot sauce can also really liven things up. Sometimes, using a sharper cheese like aged cheddar can make a big difference too.

Variations of Chicken Spaghetti Casserole You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic, why not play around with this versatile dish? There are so many ways to customize your chicken spaghetti casserole to suit your taste or dietary needs.

Healthy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole: For a lighter take, swap half the condensed soups for Greek yogurt or a lighter cream sauce. You can also load it up with extra veggies like broccoli or spinach, and use whole wheat spaghetti for added fiber.
Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Without Soup: If you prefer to avoid condensed soups, you can create a creamy sauce from scratch using milk, butter, flour (for a roux), and chicken broth. Season it well with herbs and spices for amazing flavor.
Spicy Southwestern Twist: Add a can of Rotel (diced tomatoes and green chilies) to the mix, use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar, and maybe a pinch of chili powder for a zesty kick.
Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Bake: For an extra rich and decadent version, consider adding a layer of ricotta cheese or a drizzle of heavy cream before baking.