Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Bake

In my quest to find a meal that pleases everyone in the family, I stumbled upon this Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Bake. It’s become a staple in our home, especially on busy weeknights. The creamy, cheesy goodness paired with tender chicken and spaghetti is a hit with both kids and adults. I remember the first time I made it; the aroma filled the house and brought everyone to the dinner table in minutes. The best part? It’s as delicious as it is easy to make, and the leftovers (if you’re lucky to have any!) are just as good the next day.

Ingredients

  • 12 ounces spaghetti
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 can (10.75 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 can (10.75 ounces) cream of chicken soup
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (red and green)
  • 1/2 cup diced onions
  • 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Cooking spray
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, milk, diced bell peppers, diced onions, sliced mushrooms, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  4. Add the cooked spaghetti to the mixture and gently toss to coat.
  5. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray and transfer the spaghetti mixture into the dish.
  6. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
  7. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
  8. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are golden brown.
  9. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Nutrition Facts

  • Servings: 6
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 450

Preparation Time

  • Total Time: 55 minutes
    • Prep Time: 20 minutes
    • Cook Time: 35 minutes

Additional Tips

Serving Suggestions: Serve this dish hot, garnished with fresh parsley. It pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Storing Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until thoroughly warm.

FAQ

  1. Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, feel free to use your favorite cheese. Mozzarella or a blend of Italian cheeses works great too.
  2. Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free? Absolutely! Use gluten-free spaghetti and check that your soups and other ingredients are gluten-free.
  3. Can I add other vegetables to this recipe? Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or carrots for added nutrition.
  4. How can I make this dish spicier? Add a diced jalapeño or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the mixture for an extra kick.
  5. Can this dish be frozen? Yes, it freezes well. Cool completely, then cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven.