If you are searching for a cozy, comforting dish that perfectly blends creamy, cheesy goodness with tender chicken and pasta, look no further than the Ultimate Chicken Spaghetti Recipe. This dish delivers a wonderful mix of flavors and textures with every bite, combining flavorful shredded chicken, gooey Velveeta cheese, and just the right amount of zest from Ro*Tel tomatoes. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate and is bound to become a classic in your dinner rotation. Simple to prepare yet irresistibly delicious, this recipe brings family and friends together with ease.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in the Ultimate Chicken Spaghetti Recipe plays a vital role in building the perfect balance of flavor, creaminess, and texture. From the tender chicken to the mix of cheeses and spices, every component works beautifully to create a dish you’ll want to savor.
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star protein, shredded for tender, juicy bites throughout the pasta.
- 1 (16-ounce) package spaghetti: Provides the hearty foundation, cooked al dente for that perfect bite.
- 1 (10-ounce) can Ro*Tel Tomatoes: Adds a subtle kick and fresh tomato flavor to brighten the creamy sauce.
- 2 (10.5-ounce) cans cream of mushroom soup: Creates a rich, silky base that brings everything together.
- 1 (16-ounce) package Velveeta cheese: Melts into luscious creaminess that is essential for true comfort food vibes.
- 4 ounces cream cheese: Adds smooth texture and extra richness to the cheese sauce.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a gentle savory note without overwhelming the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Packs a subtle sweetness that complements the garlic for depth.
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Sprinkled on top for a delightful golden crust and punch of sharp cheese flavor.
How to Make Ultimate Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Cook and Shred the Chicken
Start by gently simmering your boneless skinless chicken breasts in a pot just covered with water. Keeping the heat medium-low ensures the chicken stays tender and juicy, avoiding toughness that comes from boiling. Once cooked, allow the chicken to cool enough to handle before shredding it finely with two forks. This shredded chicken will be the hearty protein that melds beautifully with the creamy sauce.
Step 2: Prepare the Oven and Pasta
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly grease a 13×9-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and make serving easier. Next, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente, so it holds its shape and texture even after baking. Drain the pasta well to avoid excess moisture in your final dish.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce
In a large pot, combine the undrained Ro*Tel tomatoes, both cans of cream of mushroom soup, Velveeta cheese, and cream cheese. Warm this mixture over low heat, stirring constantly, until the cheeses melt into a smooth, velvety sauce. Be patient here; the slow melting develops the perfect consistency that coats every strand of spaghetti. Season with garlic powder and onion powder to infuse all those comforting classic flavors.
Step 4: Combine and Assemble
Once your cheese sauce is ready, stir in the shredded chicken and cooked spaghetti. Mix everything gently but thoroughly so each pasta strand is coated in that luscious sauce and the chicken is evenly distributed. Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish and top generously with shredded sharp cheddar cheese. This final touch adds flavor and that irresistibly bubbly golden top you’ll crave.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake in your preheated oven for 20 to 30 minutes until the dish is heated through and the cheddar cheese on top has melted and turned golden brown. The warm bubbling cheese and the aroma that fills your kitchen will let you know the Ultimate Chicken Spaghetti Recipe is ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Ultimate Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions adds a pop of color and fresh flavor that cuts through the richness wonderfully. You can also add a light dusting of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little extra heat. These simple garnishes elevate the presentation and make it feel even more special.
Side Dishes
Pair this creamy chicken spaghetti with crisp green salads dressed in tangy vinaigrettes to balance the richness. Roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans also add a fresh contrast and nutritious boost. Simply put, the right side dishes create a well-rounded meal everyone will love.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the Ultimate Chicken Spaghetti Recipe straight from the baking dish family-style to encourage sharing and warm conversation. For a fun twist, portion it into individual ramekins and sprinkle with a bit of extra cheese on top for mini baked casseroles. Either way, the comforting aroma and cheesy goodness make it a feast for both eyes and taste buds.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. This dish keeps well for up to 3 days, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lunches. The flavors will actually deepen after a day, making for an even more satisfying meal the next time around.
Freezing
The Ultimate Chicken Spaghetti Recipe freezes beautifully, too. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prep or saving for a rainy day.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the microwave or oven until warm throughout. If reheating in the oven, cover with foil to prevent drying out and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15 to 20 minutes. Microwave reheating is quicker but stirring halfway through helps heat it evenly and maintain that creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking the chicken myself?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken can save time and makes the Ultimate Chicken Spaghetti Recipe even quicker to prepare without sacrificing flavor or texture. Just shred the rotisserie chicken and add it in the same way.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
This recipe relies heavily on cheese for its signature creaminess, so replacing dairy can be tricky. However, you can experiment with dairy-free cream cheese and shredded cheese alternatives, but the flavor and texture will vary from the classic version.
Can I add vegetables to the recipe?
Yes, you can toss in veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to add nutrients and extra flavor. Sauté them lightly before mixing into the cheese sauce to avoid adding excess moisture.
How spicy is the dish with Ro*Tel tomatoes?
Ro*Tel tomatoes bring a mild to moderate kick depending on your sensitivity to heat. If you prefer less spice, you can use diced tomatoes without the peppers or drain some of the Ro*Tel juice before adding.
Can the Ultimate Chicken Spaghetti Recipe be made ahead and baked later?
Definitely! You can prepare the entire dish up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate it. When ready, simply pop it in the oven and bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time if needed.
Final Thoughts
There is nothing quite like the warm, cheesy goodness of the Ultimate Chicken Spaghetti Recipe to bring comfort and joy to your table. It’s a dish that combines simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing meal that feels like a special occasion every time. Whether for family dinners, potlucks, or whenever you need a hearty hug in food form, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite. Give it a try and watch it disappear in no time!
Print
Ultimate Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Ultimate Chicken Spaghetti is a comforting, creamy casserole that combines tender shredded chicken, melted cheeses, spaghetti, and flavorful tomatoes into a hearty baked dish. Perfect for family dinners, this recipe is easy to prepare and yields a cheesy, satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Proteins
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
Pasta
- 1 (16-ounce) package spaghetti
Cheeses and Dairy
- 1 (16-ounce) package Velveeta cheese
- 4 ounces cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Vegetables and Canned Goods
- 1 (10-ounce) can Ro*Tel Tomatoes (undrained)
Condiments and Seasonings
- 2 (10.5-ounce) cans cream of mushroom soup (undiluted)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
- Cook the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large pot and just cover them with water. Cook over medium-low heat until the chicken is fully cooked through. Avoid boiling vigorously to prevent toughness. Once cooked, let the chicken cool slightly, then shred it thoroughly using two forks.
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 13×9-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook the spaghetti: Prepare the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to prevent overcooking.
- Make the cheese sauce and combine: In a large pot, over low heat, combine the undrained Ro*Tel tomatoes, undiluted cream of mushroom soup, Velveeta cheese, and cream cheese. Stir constantly until all cheeses are melted and the mixture is smooth. Then, add garlic powder, onion powder, shredded chicken, and the cooked spaghetti. Mix everything thoroughly to evenly distribute the ingredients.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese topping is melted and bubbly.
Notes
- Be careful not to boil the chicken vigorously to keep it tender.
- Using Velveeta and cream cheese gives the dish a creamy, smooth texture.
- Cooking the spaghetti al dente helps prevent it from becoming mushy during baking.
- You can substitute Rotel tomatoes with diced tomatoes and green chilies if desired.
- For a spicier version, use a spicy variety of Ro*Tel tomatoes or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
