Chicken Spaghetti Casserole: A Comforting Classic Made Easy

Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a beloved dish that combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked spaghetti, and a creamy, cheesy sauce baked to golden perfection. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug — hearty, flavorful, and perfect for family dinners or potlucks.

This recipe is easy to customize, budget-friendly, and uses simple ingredients you probably already have on hand. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, follow this step-by-step guide to make a delicious chicken spaghetti casserole that everyone will love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Chicken: 2 cups cooked, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
Spaghetti: 8 ounces (about half a standard box)
Cream of Mushroom Soup: 1 can (10.5 oz) or cream of chicken soup as an alternative
Cream of Chicken Soup: 1 can (10.5 oz)
Milk: 1 cup (whole or 2%)
Cheese: 2 cups shredded cheddar or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella
Green Bell Pepper: 1 small, diced (optional)
Onion: 1 small, finely chopped
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
Butter or Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
Salt & Pepper: to taste
Optional: Red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a little kick

Step-by-Step Method to Make Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions (usually 8-10 minutes) until al dente.
Drain the spaghetti and rinse briefly with cold water to stop the cooking. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

If you don’t have pre-cooked chicken, you can boil, bake, or pan-cook chicken breasts or thighs.
Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks or your hands.

Tip: Using a rotisserie chicken saves time and adds extra flavor.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat butter or olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add diced onion and green pepper, sautéing for about 3-5 minutes until softened.
Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.