Quick and Easy Chicken Spaghetti: The Ultimate Comfort Meal

When you need a hearty, comforting meal that’s simple enough for a weeknight but satisfying enough to please a crowd, chicken spaghetti is your answer. This recipe brings together tender chunks of cooked chicken, earthy mushrooms, and pasta, all enveloped in a creamy, cheesy tomato sauce. Ready in less than an hour, this dish is perfect for busy families or anyone craving classic Southern-inspired comfort food.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Spaghetti

• Fast and Convenient: Minimal prep and cook time make it ideal for weeknight dinners.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavors: Creamy, cheesy, and savory, it appeals to both kids and adults.
• Flexible Ingredients: Perfect for using up leftover chicken and pantry staples.
• One-Pot Wonder: Everything comes together in a single dish, minimizing cleanup.

Ingredients for Quick and Easy Chicken Spaghetti

The beauty of this dish is in its simplicity. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 8 ounces dried spaghetti pasta
• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (10.75 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chiles, undrained
• 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese (divided)
• 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional: sliced mushrooms, diced pimentos, red pepper flakes for extra flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti just until al dente, then drain well. Avoid overcooking since the pasta will bake further in the oven.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté onions and bell peppers until softened (about 4–5 minutes). Add mushrooms here if you’re using them.
4. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked spaghetti, sautéed vegetables, one cup of cheese, condensed soup, diced tomatoes with chiles (undrained), and chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.
5. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly.
6. Bake: Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes or until bubbly and cheese is melted and lightly golden.
7. Serve Hot: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or fresh herbs if desired.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Spaghetti

• Use Leftover Chicken: Rotisserie chicken adds flavor and saves prep time.
• Customize the Veggies: Add mushrooms, pimentos, or even spinach for extra nutrition.
• Make It Spicy: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for heat.
• Cheese Options: Mix in Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a stretchier texture.
• Short on Time? Assemble ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Simply bake when ready to eat.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

Note: Values are approximate and will vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a full meal.
• Sprinkle with extra fresh herbs like parsley or basil before serving.
• Serve alongside roasted vegetables for added color and nutrition.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Transfer cooled spaghetti to a freezer-safe dish, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then heat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. Add a splash of chicken broth if needed to moisten.

Recipe Variations

• Chicken Spaghetti Casserole: Add a crunchy topping of buttered breadcrumbs before baking for extra texture.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and check that your condensed soup is gluten-free.
• Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and add extra mushrooms or chickpeas for protein.
• Keto-Friendly: Replace spaghetti with zucchini noodles and use a low-carb condensed soup.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this chicken spaghetti ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve. If baking straight from the fridge, add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time.

What kind of chicken is best for this recipe?

Any cooked chicken works well—use poached chicken breasts, roasted chicken, or even leftover rotisserie chicken. Dark or white meat are both delicious in this recipe.

Can I freeze chicken spaghetti?

Absolutely. Let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating in the oven.

What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?

You can use cream of chicken, cream of celery, or even a homemade white sauce as a substitute.

Are there any vegetable additions that go well?

Yes! Mushrooms, diced red pepper, spinach, and chopped broccoli all make excellent additions to boost flavor and nutrition.

Expert Tips for Success

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since the spaghetti bakes further, keep it just shy of al dente.
• Drain Well: Make sure to drain the pasta thoroughly to avoid a watery casserole.
• Season to Taste: Tasting and adjusting salt, pepper, and spices before baking ensures flavorful results.
• Shred Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheeses can contain anti-caking agents that affect melting. For the best gooey texture, shred from a block.

Final Thoughts: Why Chicken Spaghetti Belongs in Your Recipe Rotation

Quick and easy chicken spaghetti is more than just a fast meal—it’s a comfort classic that brings families together around the table. Its creamy, savory flavor, ease of preparation, and adaptability to different tastes and dietary needs make it a perennial favorite. Serve it bubbling hot and watch even the pickiest eaters ask for seconds!

Related Recipes

• Classic Chicken Tetrazzini
• Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta
• Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake

Share Your Own Twist!

If you try this recipe, let us know how it turned out or what creative variations you used. Chicken spaghetti is all about making it your own!

Author

Srija Burman

 

Srija holds an MA in English Literature from the University of Calcutta and a PG diploma in Editing and Publishing from Jadavpur University. Her interest in writing and editing ranges across niches, including academics, sports, and human psychology.

Read full bio of Srija Burman