Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

For the Topping:

• 1/4 cup bread crumbs (for crunch)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (adds extra flavor to the topping)
• 1 tablespoon butter, melted (for golden, crispy topping)

How to Make Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

• Cook the spaghetti: Begin by cooking the spaghetti according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
• Cook the chicken: If you don’t have pre-cooked chicken, you can cook chicken breasts or thighs in a skillet with a little oil until they’re fully cooked through. Once cooked, shred or dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
• Sauté the onions: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.

2. Make the Casserole Mixture:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, sautéed onions, cooked spaghetti, cream of mushroom soup, diced tomatoes with green chilies (if using), sour cream, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, chicken broth, and seasonings (garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper). Stir everything together until well combined.

3. Assemble the Casserole:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little butter. Pour the chicken and pasta mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly.

4. Prepare the Topping:

• In a small bowl, mix together the bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, and melted butter. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. This will create a crispy, golden crust once baked.

5. Bake the Casserole:

• Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the casserole is bubbly around the edges. You can cover it with foil for the first 15 minutes if you want to keep it extra moist and then uncover it for the last 10-15 minutes to allow the topping to crisp up.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

• Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Slice it into squares and serve with a side of salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Tips for the Perfect Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

• Use leftover chicken: If you have leftover rotisserie chicken or cooked chicken breasts from a previous meal, this is the perfect way to use them. It saves time and adds more flavor to the dish.
• Add veggies: You can make the casserole even heartier by adding veggies like bell peppers, peas, or mushrooms. If you’re a fan of spice, you could also add jalapeños or hot sauce to the mix.
• Make it spicy: For those who like a bit of heat, add diced green chilies or jalapeños to the casserole mixture. You can also sprinkle red pepper flakes on top before baking.
• Make it ahead: This casserole is perfect for making ahead. You can assemble it the night before, cover it with foil, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if you’re cooking it from cold.
• Freezer-friendly: This casserole freezes well! After baking and cooling, wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then store it in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to serve, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake until hot and bubbly.

Why You’ll Love Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate comfort food: it’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. It’s a dish that brings together simple ingredients to create something truly special. With tender chicken, gooey cheese, and a crispy topping, each bite is the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Not only is it satisfying and delicious, but this casserole is also incredibly versatile. You can make it spicier, add more vegetables, or even make it with different types of cheese. The possibilities are endless, but the comforting and satisfying nature of the dish remains the same.

Conclusion: A Meal Your Family Will Love

Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a true crowd-pleaser, ideal for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or any time you want a comforting, homemade meal that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. With a handful of ingredients and simple preparation, you can create a dish that will become a staple in your home. Give this classic casserole a try and watch it quickly become a family favorite!