The Ultimate Guide to Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

📜 Introduction

Few dishes evoke the warmth and comfort of home quite like a bubbling tray of Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole. Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor, this classic Southern dish is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of tradition, creativity, and heartwarming flavors. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping a weeknight dinner, this casserole delivers satisfaction in every bite.

🕰️ A Brief History: From Humble Origins to Beloved Favorite

Originating in Southern kitchens—particularly Texas—chicken spaghetti gained popularity in the mid-20th century. Drawing inspiration from Italian pasta bakes, American home cooks made it their own with pantry staples like canned soup, processed cheese, and leftover chicken.

Over the years, the dish evolved but remained true to its roots: affordable, family-friendly, and utterly delicious. Today, it’s a go-to recipe for holidays, church potlucks, and busy weeknights.

🥘 Ingredients (Serves 8–10)

🧂 Pantry & Fresh Ingredients:

• 400g (14 oz) spaghetti

• 3 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed – rotisserie works great!)

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup

• 1 cup chicken broth (use from boiled chicken if available)

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)

• 1 cup Velveeta cheese (optional – for ultra creaminess)

• ½ cup sour cream (optional – adds tang)

• 1 small onion, finely diced

• ½ cup green bell pepper, diced

• ½ cup red bell pepper, diced

• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• ½ tsp paprika or cayenne pepper (optional – for a kick)

• Butter or cooking spray, for greasing

🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

✅ Step 1: Preheat & Prep

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.

✅ Step 2: Cook the Pasta

• Boil spaghetti in salted water until al dente (1–2 minutes less than the package suggests).

• Drain and set aside.

✅ Step 3: Sauté the Veggies

• In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the onion and bell peppers in a bit of butter or olive oil until soft—about 5–7 minutes.

✅ Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:

• Cream of chicken soup

• Cream of mushroom soup

• Chicken broth

• Sour cream (if using)

• Diced tomatoes with green chilies

• Velveeta (if using)

• Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika

• Salt and pepper

• Stir in the sautéed vegetables.

✅ Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

• Fold in the chicken and spaghetti into the sauce mixture.

• Pour everything into the greased baking dish.

• Top with extra shredded cheddar cheese.

✅ Step 6: Bake to Perfection

• Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.

• Uncover and bake for another 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

✅ Step 7: Rest & Serve

• Let the casserole sit for 5–10 minutes before serving.

• Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for a touch of freshness.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Pair your cheesy chicken spaghetti with:

• 🥗 Crisp green salad with a vinaigrette

• 🥖 Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls

• 🥦 Steamed broccoli or green beans for balance

💡 Tips & Variations

• Make it spicy: Add jalapeños or use pepper jack cheese.

• Vegetarian twist: Substitute chicken with sautéed mushrooms and zucchini.

• Make ahead: Assemble the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate—just add 10 minutes to the baking time.

🧪 Why We Love It

✅ Kid-friendly
✅ Perfect for leftovers
✅ Freezer-friendly
✅ Crowd-pleaser at potlucks, holidays, or Sunday dinners

✍️ Final Thoughts

Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is more than just a recipe—it’s a reminder of the meals that bring us together. Whether you’re keeping it traditional or putting your own twist on it, this comforting, cheesy classic is sure to earn a permanent spot in your recipe box.

So grab your fork (and a second helping)—this is Southern comfort at its best.