Cheesy Baked Chicken Spaghetti is a delightful, hearty casserole dish that combines tender chicken, spaghetti noodles, and a creamy, cheesy sauce baked to perfection. This comforting meal is ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prep. In this article, we’ll guide you through every step of the recipe and share some tips to make your Cheesy Baked Chicken Spaghetti delicious every time.
Table of Contents
- What is Cheesy Baked Chicken Spaghetti?
- Ingredients You’ll Need
- How to Make Cheesy Baked Chicken Spaghetti
- Tips for the Best Cheesy Baked Chicken Spaghetti
- Variations of Cheesy Baked Chicken Spaghetti
- FAQs About Cheesy Baked Chicken Spaghetti
- Conclusion
1. What is Cheesy Baked Chicken Spaghetti?
Cheesy Baked Chicken Spaghetti is a classic casserole dish that combines cooked spaghetti, shredded chicken, and a blend of cheeses in a rich, creamy sauce. This dish is then baked until it’s golden and bubbly. The result is a meal that’s both comforting and filling, with each bite delivering creamy, cheesy goodness.
2. Ingredients You’ll Need
For this Cheesy Baked Chicken Spaghetti recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Spaghetti noodles: 400g
- Cooked, shredded chicken: 500g (about 2 cups, or you can use rotisserie chicken for convenience)
- Cream of chicken soup: 1 can (300g)
- Cream cheese: 150g, softened
- Sour cream: 1 cup
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 1 ½ cups (divided)
- Parmesan cheese: ½ cup, grated
- Garlic powder: 1 tsp
- Onion powder: 1 tsp
- Salt and pepper: to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley: ¼ cup for garnish (optional)
3. How to Make Cheesy Baked Chicken Spaghetti
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little butter.
Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, softened cream cheese, sour cream, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well-mixed.
Step 4: Add Chicken and Spaghetti
Fold in the shredded chicken and cooked spaghetti. Make sure the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
Transfer the spaghetti mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
Step 6: Bake
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly, with a golden-brown color.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm.
4. Tips for the Best Cheesy Baked Chicken Spaghetti
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken saves time and adds a savory flavor.
- Cook the Spaghetti Al Dente: Since the pasta will continue cooking in the oven, it’s best to cook it al dente initially to avoid mushy noodles.
- Mix Cheeses for Better Flavor: Combining cheddar and Parmesan adds depth of flavor. You can also add mozzarella or gouda for extra creaminess.
- Season Generously: The flavors will intensify during baking, so be sure to season the sauce well with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Variations of Cheesy Baked Chicken Spaghetti
- Add Vegetables: Boost nutrition by adding vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms.
- Make It Spicy: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños.
- Try Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free cream soup if needed.
- Mexican Style: Add a can of green chilies, some taco seasoning, and use Mexican blend cheese for a southwestern twist.
6. FAQs About Cheesy Baked Chicken Spaghetti
Can I Make Cheesy Baked Chicken Spaghetti Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking step and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add 5–10 minutes to the baking time if it’s straight from the fridge.
How Long Does Cheesy Baked Chicken Spaghetti Last in the Fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, it will last up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I Freeze Cheesy Baked Chicken Spaghetti?
Yes, you can freeze it before or after baking. Wrap the dish tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. To bake from frozen, increase the baking time by 20–30 minutes.
What Sides Go Well with Cheesy Baked Chicken Spaghetti?
Pair it with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables to complete the meal.
7. Conclusion
Cheesy Baked Chicken Spaghetti is a warm, creamy, and satisfying dish that’s easy to make and versatile for any occasion. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or as a comforting family dinner. Customize it with your favorite cheeses, spices, or add-ins to make it your own!
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