Chicken Spaghetti is a comforting, creamy casserole that combines tender shredded chicken, perfectly cooked spaghetti, and a cheesy sauce that brings everything together in the best way. You’ll notice it’s loaded with gooey melted cheese and just the right amount of sauce to keep every bite deliciously moist without being soggy.
I love making Chicken Spaghetti when I want a warm, cozy meal that can feed a crowd or make great leftovers. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a big hug on a plate, and I’ve found that using rotisserie chicken can save a ton of time without losing any of that homemade flavor. Plus, it’s super easy to tweak if you want to add veggies or a little kick with some spices.
My favorite way to serve Chicken Spaghetti is straight out of the casserole dish with a simple green salad on the side — something fresh and light to balance the creamy pasta. It’s also a hit at family dinners or potlucks because it’s filling and everyone always asks for the recipe. Whenever I make this, it reminds me of those cozy nights when comfort food just feels right.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: Classic spaghetti works well here since its long strands hold the sauce nicely. You can swap it with linguine, fettuccine, or even penne if you prefer shorter pasta or want a different texture.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless breasts are tender and cook quickly. If you want juicier meat, try thighs instead. Leftover rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut that keeps things simple.
Cream & Cheese: Heavy cream makes the sauce rich and smooth, but half-and-half or whole milk can work for a lighter version. Cheddar adds sharpness while Parmesan gives a nice salty tang; you can mix or match cheeses like Monterey Jack or Mozzarella to change the flavor.
Broth & Tomatoes: Chicken broth adds depth but vegetable broth is fine if you want to keep it lighter. Diced tomatoes bring a little acidity to balance the creamy sauce. Fresh or canned both work great.
How Can I Get a Creamy Sauce Without It Being Too Runny?
The key to a creamy, thick sauce is cooking it slowly so it reduces and coats the pasta well. Here’s what helps:
- After adding cream & broth, simmer gently, stirring often. This reduces liquid and concentrates the flavors.
- Add cheese gradually, letting each addition melt fully before stirring in more.
- Don’t overcook the pasta—strain it while it’s still firm. It’ll finish cooking slightly when combined with the sauce and keep from getting mushy.
- If the sauce is too thin at the end, you can thicken it quickly with a tiny bit of cornstarch mixed with water or just cook a bit longer on low heat.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – to cook the spaghetti until al dente, making sure it’s firm and not mushy.
- Skillet or large sauté pan – perfect for cooking the chicken, making the sauce, and combining everything in one dish.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – easy for stirring the sauce and pasta without scratching the pan.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to keep track of ingredients like liquids and cheeses accurately.
- Colander – for draining the cooked spaghetti without any hassle.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Cheese swap: Use pepper Jack or Monterey Jack for a milder or spicier flavor that melts nicely and adds a different twist.
- Protein boost: Add cooked bacon bits or cooked shrimp to give extra texture and flavor.
- Veggie mix: Stir in sautéed peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added color and nutrients.
- Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a little heat in your creamy sauce.
Chicken Spaghetti
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup diced onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 30 minutes start to finish. Plan for 10 minutes to cook the spaghetti and prep the ingredients, then about 15-20 minutes to cook the chicken, make the sauce, and combine everything.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Spaghetti:
Boil the spaghetti according to package directions until just tender (al dente). Drain it well and set aside for later.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken in the skillet for about 5 to 7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the diced onions and cook for about 3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for one more minute until fragrant. Then stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Let it simmer gently.
4. Season and Combine:
Add Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper to the sauce. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens just a bit.
5. Add Cheese and Pasta:
Stir in the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until melted and creamy. Then toss the cooked spaghetti in the sauce until each strand is nicely coated.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish up the chicken spaghetti while hot and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Garlic bread on the side makes a perfect finish!
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken Instead of Cooking Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred or chop the cooked chicken and add it to the sauce in step 4, allowing it to heat through before adding cheese and pasta.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free milk alternative like cashew milk, and use vegan cheese or nutritional yeast to keep it creamy and flavorful without dairy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce thickens too much.
Can I Prepare Chicken Spaghetti Ahead of Time?
You can! Cook the pasta and chicken ahead, then assemble and store the sauce separately. Combine everything just before baking or reheating for the freshest results.