Jump to Recipe Print RecipeWhile rummaging through my pantry one chilly evening, I stumbled upon the perfect mix of comforting staples just waiting to be transformed into a hearty meal. Enter my Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole with Tex-Mex Flair, a delightful twist on a classic casserole that quickly became a family favorite. This recipe not only serves up to 10 people, making it ideal for gatherings, but can also be tossed together in just 50 minutes, leaving you plenty of time to enjoy the company. The creamy texture combined with cheesy goodness and a hint of spice will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and easily adaptable for a healthier spin, making it a win-win situation. Are you ready to dive into this delicious comfort food? Why is Chicken Spaghetti So Amazing? Comforting and Cozy: This Chicken Spaghetti Casserole envelops you in warmth with its creamy, cheesy base, making it perfect for chilly evenings. Quick Prep Time: In just 50 minutes, you can whip up a dish that feeds up to 10, ideal for family dinners or potlucks. Budget-Friendly: With accessible ingredients, this casserole won’t break the bank, allowing you to serve delicious meals without stress. Versatile Options: Swap ingredients based on your pantry! Try including different vegetables or using Garlic Parmesan Chicken for variety. Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves a hearty casserole, and this recipe is sure to impress family and friends alike! For lighter options, check out the Low Carb Chicken version to accommodate various diets. Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Ingredients Discover the secret to a creamy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole with Tex-Mex flair! For the Casserole Nonstick Cooking Spray – Prevents sticking; feel free to use oil or butter if preferred. Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor; sea salt is a great alternative too. Whole Wheat Spaghetti – Provides texture; regular spaghetti works as a substitute. Olive Oil – Adds richness; vegetable or canola oil can also be used. Yellow Onion – Serves as a flavorful base; shallots can provide a milder alternative. Red Bell Pepper – Adds sweetness and vibrant color; substitute with green bell pepper if desired. Garlic – Boosts flavor; garlic powder can be used in a 1:1 ratio if out of fresh. For the Creamy Mixture Low-Sodium Chicken Broth – Enhances moisture and flavor; try vegetable or bone broth for variety. Whole Milk – Contributes to the creamy texture; low-fat or unsweetened almond milk works as a substitute. Cream Cheese – Adds depth and creaminess; opt for reduced-fat cream cheese, but avoid fat-free options. Diced Tomatoes with Green Chiles – Provides acidity and spice; fire-roasted tomatoes make a delicious alternative. Chopped Pimentos – Infuses flavor and color; can be swapped with olives for a different twist. For the Cheesy Topping Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Brings cheesiness; swap with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for variety. Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Offers a melty goodness; use more cheddar if you prefer stronger flavor. For the Spices Ground Paprika – Enhances flavor complexity; adjust to taste. Ground Cumin – Adds a warm spice; chili powder can substitute for a different kick. For the Protein Cooked Chicken – The star of the dish; rotisserie chicken is a handy time-saver or use turkey for a leaner choice. With these wholesome ingredients, you’ll create a Chicken Spaghetti Casserole that’s not only delicious but also a comforting family favorite! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Step 1: Preheat and Prep Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, generously coat a large baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking, ensuring easy serving once your delicious Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is baked. Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the whole wheat spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside, allowing it to cool slightly while you prepare the filling. Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped yellow onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic, sautéing for about 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are softened and aromatic. Stir frequently to prevent the garlic from burning, ensuring even cooking. Step 4: Create the Creamy Mixture Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and whole milk, then add in the cream cheese. Use a spatula to stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy—this will take about 3-4 minutes. The creamy base will enhance the flavors in your Chicken Spaghetti Casserole. Step 5: Mix in the Rest To the skillet, add the diced tomatoes with green chiles, chopped pimentos, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, ground paprika, ground cumin, and the cooked chicken. Stir everything together until well combined, allowing the ingredients to meld beautifully. Step 6: Combine the Spaghetti and Chicken Mixture In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti with the creamy chicken mixture. Gently fold the spaghetti into the filling, ensuring every strand is coated with the rich sauce for a wonderfully comforting Chicken Spaghetti Casserole. Step 7: Transfer to Baking Dish Carefully spoon the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top the casserole with the remaining cheddar cheese and shredded mozzarella, creating a deliciously cheesy topping that will melt and bubble beautifully. Step 8: Bake to Perfection Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, with a lovely golden hue on top. This baking time will meld all those mouthwatering flavors together. Step 9: Cool and Serve Once baked, remove the Chicken Spaghetti Casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes. This resting time will help set the casserole and make serving easier. Dish it up and prepare for rave reviews at the dinner table! Expert Tips for Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Avoid Overcooking: Keep the spaghetti al dente as it will continue to cook while baking, preventing a mushy texture in your Chicken Spaghetti. Mix Thoroughly: Ensure the creamy mixture is well-combined for even flavor distribution; this guarantees each bite is rich and delightful. Choose the Right Cheese: Use a combination of intriguing cheeses like Pepper Jack for a kick or stick to classic cheddar for familiarity—the cheese melts beautifully and enhances the dish. Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes it easier to portion out. Add a Flavor Kick: For those who enjoy heat, consider tossing in some diced jalapeños or using spicy cheese for a tantalizing twist on the classic Chicken Spaghetti. What to Serve with Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole This delightful dish deserves equally delicious companions to create a memorable meal experience for all. Garlic Bread: Perfect for sopping up creamy sauce, the buttery, garlicky goodness adds a satisfying crunch. Slice it fresh and serve warm for ideal pairing. Avocado Salad: A refreshing mix of creamy avocado with crisp veggies balances the richness of the casserole. The vibrant flavors will brighten each bite, making it a perfect sidekick. Mexican Street Corn Salad: This sweet and spicy corn salad introduces delightful textures and flavor contrasts. Its zesty lime dressing complements the Tex-Mex flair of the casserole splendidly. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a lovely, vibrant green and a nutritional punch. Its crisp texture offers a delightful contrast to the creamy pasta goodness. Cheesy Cornbread Muffins: Sweet and savory, these moist muffins bring warmth and comfort to the table, pairing beautifully with the casserole’s creamy flavors. Homemade Iced Tea: A refreshing, lightly sweetened iced tea can cut through the richness of the casserole. It’s a classic drink for family gatherings that everyone will enjoy. Chocolate Chip Cookies: For a sweet finish, serve warm chocolate chip cookies. Their gooey, tender texture is a beloved dessert that enhances the comfort food experience. Chicken Spaghetti Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own! Protein Swap: Substitute shredded chicken with ground turkey or shredded beef for a delicious twist on the protein. You could even try using rotisserie chicken for quick preparation. Veggie Boost: Add in sautéed spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms to increase the nutritional value and flavor. These veggies bring a delightful freshness that complements the creamy spaghetti. Dairy-Free: Use unsweetened almond milk and vegan cream cheese to enjoy a dairy-free version of the casserole. It still promises that creamy texture without the dairy! Gluten-Free: Substitute the whole wheat spaghetti with gluten-free pasta to accommodate gluten-sensitive guests. Just ensure to monitor the cooking time for a perfect al dente bite! Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, toss in some diced jalapeños or use spicy cheese like Pepper Jack for added zest. This gives the dish a fiesta-worthy flair that’s sure to impress. Lower Carb: Consider replacing spaghetti with spiralized zucchini or spaghetti squash for a low-carb twist. This veggie alternative lightens the dish while keeping it satisfying. Flavor Fingerprints: Infuse more flavor by adding a splash of lime juice or zest. This brightens up the casserole and enhances the Tex-Mex elements beautifully! Extra Cheese: For an essential cheese lover’s experience, crank up the cheese factor by adding a variety of cheese blends or topping with feta before serving. Cheese makes everything better! For even more culinary inspiration, don’t miss out on our Orange Chicken Savory or Garlic Ginger Chicken for a delightful twist on classic flavors. How to Store and Freeze Chicken Spaghetti Fridge: Store any leftover Chicken Spaghetti Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled completely before sealing for optimal freshness. Freezer: You can freeze the casserole before baking for up to 6 months. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes until hot and bubbly. If frozen, increase the baking time as needed. Airtight Tips: For the best flavor and texture, ensure the casserole is well-wrapped or stored in a sealed container to keep moisture in and prevent drying out. Make Ahead Options These Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Casseroles are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the entire casserole mixture, combining all the ingredients (except for the cheese topping) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the unbaked mixture covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent drying out. For the best results, give a gentle stir before transferring to your baking dish, then top with cheese just before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake as directed, adding an extra 5–10 minutes to the baking time if coming straight from the fridge. This way, you can serve up a comforting dish with minimal effort on busy nights! Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe FAQs How do I select the right spaghetti? Absolutely! When choosing your spaghetti, look for whole wheat spaghetti for added nutrition and fiber. If opting for regular spaghetti, ensure it doesn’t have any dark spots or unusual odors, which can indicate staleness. Always check the expiration date before purchasing to guarantee freshness! What is the best way to store leftover Chicken Spaghetti Casserole? Very! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow the casserole to cool completely before sealing it to maintain its flavor and texture. If you plan to enjoy it later, transfer the leftovers into meal-sized portions for easy reheating. Can I freeze Chicken Spaghetti Casserole, and if so, how? Absolutely! You can freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then cover it with aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. This way, it can last for up to 6 months! When ready to bake, simply thaw the casserole overnight in the fridge and then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, adding extra time if it’s still slightly frozen. What if my casserole is too dry after baking? Don’t worry! If your casserole comes out dry, it’s usually because it didn’t have enough moisture in the creamy mixture or time in the oven. For next time, make sure to use enough chicken broth and milk. If it happens again, you can add a splash of broth or milk while reheating to moisten it up. Stir gently to incorporate; you’re bound to get that creamy texture back! Are there any dietary considerations for pets and allergies? Yes! If you’re cooking for anyone with allergies, be mindful of common allergens such as dairy and gluten. You can make this casserole gluten-free by using specific gluten-free pasta. Be sure to keep it away from pets, especially since ingredients like garlic can be toxic to dogs and cats. What can I substitute for the chicken? Absolutely! You can easily swap out the cooked chicken for shredded beef or ground turkey to fit your taste preferences. Just ensure that any alternative is thoroughly cooked before mixing it into the casserole. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, consider adding beans or chickpeas for a protein boost! Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole for Cozy Family Nights This Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a comforting and budget-friendly dish that serves up to 10 people. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsCooling Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr Servings: 10 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: Tex-MexCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Casserole1 tablespoon Nonstick Cooking Spray Prevents sticking1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Enhances flavor12 ounces Whole Wheat Spaghetti Provides texture2 tablespoons Olive Oil Adds richness1 large Yellow Onion Serves as a flavorful base1 large Red Bell Pepper Adds sweetness and color3 cloves Garlic Boosts flavorFor the Creamy Mixture3 cups Low-Sodium Chicken Broth Enhances moisture and flavor1 cup Whole Milk Contributes to creamy texture8 ounces Cream Cheese Adds depth and creaminess10 ounces Diced Tomatoes with Green Chiles Provides acidity and spice4 ounces Chopped Pimentos Infuses flavor and colorFor the Cheesy Topping1.5 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese Brings cheesiness1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Offers a melty goodnessFor the Spices1 teaspoon Ground Paprika Enhances flavor complexity1 teaspoon Ground Cumin Adds a warm spiceFor the Protein3 cups Cooked Chicken The star of the dish Equipment Large baking dishLarge potLarge skilletMixing Bowl Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and coat a large baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the whole wheat spaghetti until al dente.Heat olive oil in a large skillet and sauté the yellow onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic until softened.Pour in the chicken broth and milk, then add cream cheese and stir until smooth.Mix in diced tomatoes, pimentos, half of the cheddar cheese, paprika, cumin, and cooked chicken.Combine the cooked spaghetti with the creamy chicken mixture, folding until coated.Transfer the mixture to the baking dish, top with remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese.Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.Let cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 5gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 35mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg NotesLet the casserole rest before serving for easier portioning. Feel free to customize ingredients according to your pantry. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
