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Easy Chicken Spaghetti Recipe

Comforting Easy Chicken Spaghetti Recipe for Busy Nights

This easy chicken spaghetti recipe is a comforting, creamy dish perfect for busy nights, combining chicken and pasta in a cheesy sauce.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole
  • 12 oz Spaghetti The foundation of this easy chicken spaghetti recipe, providing the perfect structure.
  • 3 cups Cooked Chicken Adds protein and flavor; rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option.
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) Cream of Chicken Soup Creates a creamy sauce base; cream of mushroom is a tasty substitute.
  • 1 can (10 oz) Diced Tomatoes with Green Chiles Enhances flavor and moisture; choose plain diced tomatoes for less heat.
  • 1 Onion (finely diced) Contributes depth of flavor; shallots are a milder alternative.
  • 1 Bell Pepper (diced) Adds sweetness and texture to the dish; celery makes a crunchy substitute.
  • 3 cloves Garlic (minced) Boosts overall flavor; garlic powder works in a pinch.
  • 2 cups Cheddar Cheese (shredded, divided) Provides creaminess; feel free to swap for mozzarella or pepper jack.
  • 1 tsp Italian Seasoning Infuses the dish with herbal notes; fresh herbs can enhance the flavor profile.
  • ½ tsp Garlic Powder Amplifies the garlic flavor; use fresh for a more robust taste.
  • ¼ tsp Cayenne Pepper Adds a little kick; leave it out for a milder version.
  • Salt and Black Pepper For seasoning to your taste.
  • 1 tbsp Butter Helps sauté the veggies; olive oil is a good alternative.
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil Used in cooking for added richness; any cooking oil can work here.
  • ½ cup Chicken Broth Brings flavor and moisture; vegetable broth makes it vegetarian-friendly.
  • ½ cup Sour Cream Imparts creaminess; substitute with Greek yogurt for a lower-fat option.
  • 4 oz Cream Cheese (softened) This secret ingredient adds velvety richness; light cream cheese works too.
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley (chopped) Optional garnish for a fresh touch and color.

Equipment

  • baking dish
  • Skillet
  • Large Pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
  2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil, then add 12 ounces of spaghetti and cook according to package directions, reducing time by two minutes for al dente pasta. Drain but do not rinse.
  3. In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil, sauté 1 finely diced onion and 1 diced bell pepper for 4-5 minutes. Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning.
  4. Lower the heat and stir in a 10.5-ounce can of cream of chicken soup, a 10-ounce can of diced tomatoes, ½ cup of chicken broth, ½ cup of sour cream, and 4 ounces of softened cream cheese until smooth.
  5. Gently fold in 3 cups of cooked chicken and half of the 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese into the sauce, then add the drained spaghetti and stir until coated.
  6. Pour the mixture into the baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
  7. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
  8. Let the casserole rest for 10-15 minutes before optionally garnishing with 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 10mg

Notes

For best flavor, adjust seasoning to taste before baking and let sit overnight if possible.

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