Chicken Spaghetti Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Guide

 

Few dishes deliver comfort like a warm, cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole. With tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, creamy sauce, and melty cheese, this classic dish has earned its place as a family favorite. It’s a go-to recipe for busy weeknights, potlucks, or whenever you need a hearty, satisfying meal.

Below is a complete recipe guide, including ingredients, preparation steps, make-ahead tips, and storage suggestions.

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

• 1¾ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cooked and shredded)

• 12 oz spaghetti, cooked al dente and drained

• 2 cups chicken broth

• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup

• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup

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

• 8 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed (or substitute with cheddar if preferred)

• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (plus more for topping)

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

Step 1 — Cook the Chicken

• Boil chicken breasts or thighs in salted water until fully cooked (about 15–20 minutes).

• Remove from water, let cool slightly, then shred or chop into bite-sized pieces.

Tip: You can also use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken to save time.

Step 2 — Cook the Pasta

• Cook the spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente.

• Drain and set aside.

Step 3 — Prepare the Vegetable Mixture

• In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat.

• Add the diced onion and sauté until softened (about 4–5 minutes).

Step 4 — Make the Sauce

• Reduce heat to low and stir in the following:

  • Cream of mushroom soup

  • Cream of chicken soup

  • Diced tomatoes with green chilies

  • Chicken broth

  • Velveeta cubes

  • Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper

• Stir constantly until the Velveeta melts and the mixture becomes creamy (about 5–7 minutes).

Step 5 — Combine Everything

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, shredded chicken, and sauce mixture.

• Add 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese and stir to mix everything evenly.

Step 6 — Bake the Casserole

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

• Top with extra shredded cheddar cheese.

• Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.

Step 7 — Serve and Enjoy

• Let cool slightly before serving.

• Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

• To Make Ahead:
  Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 2 days before baking.

• To Freeze:
  Wrap unbaked casserole in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in refrigerator overnight before baking.

• Leftovers:
  Store baked leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days. Reheat in oven or microwave.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is everything you love about comfort food—cheesy, creamy, and full of hearty flavors. Whether you serve it fresh out of the oven or make it ahead for a busy week, this dish is bound to become a staple in your kitchen.