Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

This Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a comforting, one-dish wonder that combines tender spaghetti, juicy chicken, and a creamy sauce—all baked to perfection. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Let’s dive into the details!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. All-in-One Dish : No need for multiple pots and pans—this casserole brings everything together in one pan.
2. Hearty and Satisfying : Loaded with protein, pasta, and vegetables, it’s a complete meal in itself.
3. Customizable : Add your favorite veggies or swap out ingredients to suit your taste.
4. Kid-Friendly : The mild flavors and cheesy topping make it a hit with kids and adults alike.

Ingredients (Serves 6)

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk (whole or 2% works best)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed

For the Pasta:

• 8 oz spaghetti, cooked according to package instructions and drained

Toppings:

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for added crunch

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

1. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and fully cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
2. Sprinkle the flour over the garlic and whisk continuously for 1 minute to create a roux.
3. Gradually pour in the milk and chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it thicken slightly, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the thyme, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Fold in the thawed peas and carrots.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Combine the cooked spaghetti, chicken, and sauce in the prepared baking dish. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated.

Step 4: Bake

1. Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
2. Remove the foil, sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese on top if desired, and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.

Step 5: Serve

1. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta : Undercook the spaghetti slightly before adding it to the casserole, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
• Add Veggies : Include diced bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli for extra nutrition and color.

• Make It Creamier : Stir in sour cream or cream cheese for an ultra-rich texture.
• Reheat Leftovers : Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven for best results.

Variations to Try

• Spicy Version : Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to give the casserole some heat.
• Vegan Option : Replace the chicken with grilled tofu or seitan, and use plant-based cheese and milk alternatives.
• 
  
  
• Protein-Packed Upgrade : Stir in cooked bacon or ham chunks for extra flavor.

Conclusion

This Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is pure comfort food magic—creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. With minimal prep and maximum satisfaction, it’s the perfect solution for those nights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to savor every bite of this crowd-pleasing classic!

Enjoy the warmth and goodness of homemade comfort food tonight!