Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

I absolutely love this Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe because it hits that perfect spot between comforting and exciting. The creamy texture with sharp cheddar cheese melted on top makes it an instant family favorite, especially on chilly evenings when you want something hearty but not complicated. When I first tried this recipe, I was blown away by how simple ingredients like soup, pimentos, and green peppers come together to elevate the dish beyond typical casseroles.

You’ll find that this Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe works wonderfully for weeknight dinners or even potlucks because it’s easy to make ahead and leftovers reheat beautifully. Plus, cooking the spaghetti in homemade chicken broth adds so much flavor — a little trick I discovered that really brings the whole casserole to life without extra fuss.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe plays a crucial role, balancing creamy, savory, and mildly spicy notes. When shopping, look for sharp cheddar cheese for that punch of flavor and fresh veggies for a subtle crunch.

• Cooked chicken: Use freshly cooked chicken from a fryer chicken or store-bought rotisserie for convenience and tenderness.
• Spaghetti: Break the noodles into two-inch pieces for easier mixing and serving.
• Cream of mushroom soup: Adds creaminess and depth but feel free to use cream of chicken for a lighter taste.
• Sharp cheddar cheese: Grated for melting; sharp gives the casserole a nice tang.
• Green pepper: Finely diced for a slight crunch and fresh flavor contrast.
• Onion: Also diced finely — it blends well without overpowering the dish.
• Diced pimentos: Adds a sweet, mild pepper flavor and pretty color.
• Chicken broth: Use the broth from cooking the chicken for rich flavor when boiling spaghetti.
• Lawry’s Seasoned Salt: A secret weapon for balanced seasoning; brings everything together.
• Cayenne pepper: Just a pinch to add warmth without heat unless you like it spicy.
• Salt and black pepper: To taste, of course.

Variations

I love encouraging you to make this Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe your own. Over time, I’ve found that little twists can really make the dish shine or suit different dietary needs.

• Cheese Swap: I swapped sharp cheddar with pepper jack once, and the family loved the extra kick of flavor.
• Vegetable Boost: Sometimes I add mushrooms or chopped spinach for extra nutrients and texture.
• Spice it Up: If you like heat, doubling the cayenne pepper or adding a dash of hot sauce works wonders.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and make sure the soup is gluten-free to adapt this recipe easily.

How to Make Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Chicken and Broth

The very first thing I do is cook a whole fryer chicken, then carefully pick the meat off the bones to get that rich, tender chicken flavor. Don’t toss the broth! Save about 2 cups and use it to cook the spaghetti — this is what truly elevates the casserole from good to outstanding. Using homemade broth adds a depth of flavor you simply can’t replicate with water.

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti in Chicken Broth

Cook your broken spaghetti pieces right in the reserved chicken broth until just al dente. Be careful not to overcook it — you want the pasta to hold up well when baked later, so keep an eye on the time and taste test frequently. Once it’s done, drain any excess broth but keep it slightly moist for mixing.

Step 3: Mix All Ingredients Together

In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked spaghetti, cream of mushroom soup, diced green pepper, onion, pimentos, Lawry’s Seasoned Salt, cayenne pepper, and most of your grated cheddar cheese (reserve about 1 cup for topping). Salt and pepper to taste. I find stirring gently but thoroughly ensures every bite has all those amazing flavors without breaking the pasta.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish and sprinkle the remaining sharp cheddar cheese evenly on top. Bake uncovered at 350°F for about 45 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and golden on top. If the cheese starts to brown too fast, I cover it loosely with foil halfway through baking — this little trick keeps it melty without burning.

How to Serve Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

I love adding a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a few sliced green onions on top right before serving. It adds a vibrant pop of color and a fresh flavor that contrasts nicely with the creamy casserole. Sometimes, a dash of extra shredded cheddar or a few red pepper flakes are great if you want a little more zing.

Side Dishes

My go-to sides are classic: a crisp green salad with vinaigrette helps balance the richness, and garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. Roasted vegetables, like broccoli or carrots, are delicious and add a healthy touch to the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

When I’ve served this Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe for gatherings, I sometimes bake it in pretty individual ramekins for a personal touch. It’s also fun to top with a drizzle of hot sauce or a dollop of sour cream for guests to customize their plates. For holidays, adding a sprinkle of paprika on top adds both color and a subtle smoky note.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. This casserole reheats really well without losing its creamy texture — just make sure to cover it while microwaving to keep moisture in.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully! I assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze it for up to six months. When I’m ready to eat, I thaw overnight in the fridge and bake it as usual, adding 10-15 minutes if baking straight from frozen.

Reheating

To reheat, I recommend warming in the oven at 350°F covered with foil to prevent drying out. About 20-25 minutes usually does the trick. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works, but cover the dish and check often to avoid overheating.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe really feels like a warm hug after a busy day. I keep coming back to it because it’s easy, comforting, and delivers consistent results that my family adores. If you’re looking for a tried-and-true casserole recipe that’s both practical and delicious, give this one a go — I promise it’ll become a staple in your home, just like it did in mine.

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