Easy Chicken Spaghetti

Quick Benefits

Easy Chicken Spaghetti is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting casserole that’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or meal prep. It combines tender chicken, flavorful spaghetti, and a rich sauce made with cream cheese, Rotel tomatoes, and cheddar. This dish is easy to make, family-friendly, and incredibly satisfying!

Essential Ingredients

To create this deliciously creamy and cheesy dish, you’ll need:

  • 3 cups boneless skinless chicken breasts, cooked and diced
  • 16 ounces spaghetti noodles, broken into 3 pieces
  • 21 ounces cream of chicken soup (2 cans, 10.5 ounces each)
  • 10 ounces can of RoTel Tomatoes (tomatoes with green chiles), undrained
  • 6 ounces cream cheese
  • 3 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 10 ounces evaporated milk
  • 1 tablespoon ranch dressing mix (dry)

Preparation Steps

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    • Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
    • Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray and set it aside.
  2. Cook the Spaghetti:
    • Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil.
    • Cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente.
    • Drain and set aside.
  3. Prepare the Sauce:
    • In a large pot, combine Rotel tomatoes, cream of chicken soup, evaporated milk, and cream cheese.
    • Heat over low heat, stirring constantly, until the cheese melts into a smooth sauce.
  4. Mix in Chicken & Pasta:
    • Stir in ranch dressing mix, diced chicken, and cooked spaghetti.
    • Mix until the pasta is fully coated in the creamy sauce.
  5. Assemble the Casserole:
    • Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish.
    • Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
  6. Bake to Perfection:
    • Bake uncovered for 20-30 minutes, until the dish is hot and bubbly.
    • For a crispy golden top, broil for 3-4 minutes, watching carefully.
  7. Serve & Enjoy:
    • Let cool slightly before serving.
    • Enjoy hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Health Benefits

  • High in Protein: Chicken provides lean protein for muscle building and energy.
  • Rich in Calcium: Cheddar cheese offers bone-strengthening calcium.
  • Balanced Meal: Contains protein, carbs, and fats, making it satisfying and nourishing.
  • Family-Friendly & Meal Prep Ready: This dish is great for leftovers and freezing.

Serving Suggestions

  • With a Fresh Salad: Serve with a simple green salad with balsamic vinaigrette.
  • With Garlic Bread: Pair with buttery garlic bread for extra indulgence.
  • With Steamed Vegetables: Serve alongside broccoli, green beans, or asparagus for a balanced meal.
  • With a Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs for added texture.

Creative Variations

  • Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or jalapeños for heat.
  • Veggie Boost: Mix in peas, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
  • Different Cheese Blend: Use Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack for variety.
  • Keto-Friendly Version: Swap spaghetti for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
  • Make it Tex-Mex: Add black beans and corn for a Southwestern twist.

Storage Tips

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze the unbaked or baked casserole for up to 2 months.
  • Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 15 minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes.

Pro Tips

  • Use Pre-Cooked Chicken: Rotisserie chicken or leftover shredded chicken works perfectly.
  • Avoid Overcooking Pasta: Keep pasta al dente so it doesn’t turn mushy in the oven.
  • Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole a day in advance and bake when ready.
  • Customize Seasoning: Adjust ranch mix, salt, and pepper to suit your taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes! Penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work great.

2. How do I make this dish lighter?
Use low-fat cream cheese, reduced-fat cheese, and Greek yogurt instead of heavy ingredients.

3. Can I make this without canned soup?
Yes! Replace with a homemade roux using butter, flour, and chicken broth.

4. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Cook on low for 3-4 hours, then add cheese before serving.

5. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F or microwave with a splash of milk to keep it creamy.

Enjoy your Easy Chicken Spaghetti, a comforting, cheesy, and satisfying dish for any occasion!

Leave a Comment