Description
Looking for a comforting, creamy, and totally satisfying weeknight meal? This Chicken Spaghetti Casserole hits all the right notes. Loaded with tender chicken, pasta, and a cheesy, flavorful sauce, this Southern-inspired classic is a family favorite that’s perfect for potlucks, freezer meals, or easy dinners everyone will love.
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Ingredients
For the Casserole:
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12 oz spaghetti (broken in half)
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3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
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1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
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1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
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1 cup sour cream
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1 cup chicken broth
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1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
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1 tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp onion powder
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½ tsp paprika (optional, for color)
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Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Topping:
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½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
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½ cup crushed butter crackers or breadcrumbs (optional, for crunch)
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2 tbsp melted butter (optional, if using crackers)
Optional Add-Ins:
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½ cup diced green bell pepper or pimentos
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½ cup sautéed mushrooms or onions
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¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the spaghetti just until al dente—about 1–2 minutes less than package directions.
Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Whisk until smooth.
Stir in 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese and mix well.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Add the cooked spaghetti and shredded chicken to the sauce mixture.
Toss gently until everything is well coated.
Pour into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish and spread into an even layer.
Step 4: Add the Topping
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
If using crackers or breadcrumbs, mix with melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese.
Step 5: Bake
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes, until hot, bubbly, and golden on top.
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Use Rotisserie Chicken – Saves time and adds flavor.
Don’t Overcook Pasta – Slightly undercooked pasta holds up best when baked.
Make It Creamier – Add an extra ½ cup of chicken broth or a splash of milk if you like a looser sauce.
Try Different Cheese – Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend work great too.
Double the Recipe – Bake one now, freeze one for later.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Cuisine: American–Southern