Ultimate Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
This Ultimate Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a comforting and easy-to-make dish that's perfect for family dinners. Featuring tender chicken, spaghetti, and a creamy cheese sauce, this casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It's a delightful taste of Southern comfort food at its finest.
Equipment
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large skillet
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula or spoon
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup chopped onion
- ½ cup chopped green bell pepper
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- ½ cup milk or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Cook the spaghetti according to package directions. Drain well. Don't overcook it – al dente is ideal because it will continue to cook in the oven.
- While the spaghetti is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and green bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, diced tomatoes and green chilies, softened cream cheese, and 1/2 cup of the cheddar cheese. Mix well until the cream cheese is fully incorporated.
- Add the cooked onion and bell pepper mixture to the soup mixture. Stir in the milk or chicken broth, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is smooth and creamy.
- Add the cooked spaghetti and shredded chicken to the bowl with the sauce. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
For a spicier casserole, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or use hot diced tomatoes and green chilies. Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Colby Jack. You can also add other vegetables such as mushrooms or celery to the skillet. To make ahead, assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when ready to bake. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for 2-3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.