If you’re craving a warm, comforting, and utterly delicious meal that brings cheesy goodness and tender chicken together, look no further than the Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Bake Recipe. This crowd-pleaser combines perfectly cooked spaghetti, a luscious creamy sauce bursting with flavors from garlic and bell pepper, and mouthwatering melted mozzarella cheese, all baked to golden bubbly perfection. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a get-together with friends, this dish is sure to become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Bake Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, from building layers of flavor to creating that irresistible creamy texture and vibrant color that makes this bake so inviting.
- 10 ounces spaghetti: The perfect base that soaks up the creamy sauce without losing its al dente bite.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: Adds hearty protein and tender texture.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Brings a subtle warmth and aromatic depth.
- ½ green bell pepper, chopped: Offers a slight crunch and fresh color.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Infuses classic herbal notes that elevate the entire dish.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Creates a rich base to sauté the vegetables and build the sauce.
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour: The secret to thickening that luxuriously creamy sauce.
- ½ cup chicken broth: Adds savory depth and moisture.
- ½ cup milk: Keeps the sauce smooth and creamy without overpowering richness.
- ¼ cup heavy whipping cream: Elevates the sauce with silky, indulgent creaminess.
- 1 (14 ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained: Adds a subtle tang and juicy bursts of flavor.
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided: Melts into gooey perfection and browns beautifully on top.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring everything together.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Bake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Cook Pasta
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This ensures your pasta will have just the right amount of bite and won’t get mushy when baked. Once cooked, drain it well and set aside so it’s ready to absorb all that creamy goodness later.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic and chopped green bell pepper until tender and fragrant. This step wakes up the flavors that make the sauce stand out. Next, sprinkle in the flour and Italian seasoning, stirring for about a minute to cook out the raw flour taste and meld the herbs. Slowly whisk in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and milk, bringing the mixture to a boil. Then reduce heat and let it simmer gently until it thickens into a smooth, velvety sauce.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
Off the heat, stir in half a cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and fully incorporated. This step adds that signature gooey texture that makes the dish perfect comfort food. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Now, fold in the cooked spaghetti, shredded chicken, and the drained diced tomatoes, making sure each strand of pasta is coated with the creamy mixture and every bite is flavorful and satisfying.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the spaghetti mixture into a lightly greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly over the top to create a bubbly, golden crust as it bakes. Slide the dish into your oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and has just the right touch of golden brown at the edges. This final step transforms your creation into a beautiful, irresistible bake ready to dig into.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Bake Recipe
Garnishes
To brighten and freshen the rich flavors, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or basil leaves over the top just before serving. A light dusting of grated Parmesan cheese can also add a sharp, nutty contrast that pairs wonderfully with the creamy mozzarella.
Side Dishes
This bake is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad tossed in a simple vinaigrette adds refreshing balance. Roasted vegetables or garlic bread also make fantastic companions, offering complementary textures and flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the bake in individual ramekins or deep-dish cupcake tins for personalized portions that impress at dinner parties. You could also layer it with extra vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added color and nutrients without losing that comfort food charm.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your creamy masterpiece, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Bake Recipe keeps well for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners that require minimal effort.
Freezing
If you want to make this dish ahead of time for a weeknight meal, it freezes beautifully. Assemble the bake but hold off on baking. Cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through to preserve that crispy cheese topping. Microwaving works too, but the texture will be creamier and less crispy. A sprinkle of extra cheese before reheating can help revive the bake’s signature lusciousness.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pasta in this Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Bake Recipe?
Absolutely! While spaghetti works perfectly here, you can easily substitute with penne, rotini, or even macaroni. Just make sure to cook the pasta until al dente to maintain great texture after baking.
What type of chicken is best for this dish?
Cooked, shredded chicken breast or rotisserie chicken both work wonderfully. Using pre-cooked chicken saves time, and rotisserie adds extra flavor, but you can also poach or grill chicken fresh and shred it yourself.
Can I make this dish dairy-free or lighter?
Yes, you can swap heavy cream for coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative and use dairy-free cheese to keep it creamy without dairy. For a lighter version, reduce the cheese amount and use lower-fat milk options.
How spicy is the dish? Can I add heat?
This recipe is mild and kid-friendly by default, but you can easily add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for a kick of heat that complements the creamy flavors.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Definitely! The creamy sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat gently before combining with the pasta and chicken, then bake as directed for an easy, stress-free meal.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Bake Recipe is one of those soul-satisfying dishes that brings comfort and joy with every bite. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, its rich flavors, creamy texture, and cheesy topping will quickly make it a beloved classic in your kitchen. Give it a try, and I promise it will become your go-to recipe whenever you want something truly comforting and delicious.
Print
Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Chicken Spaghetti recipe combines tender shredded chicken with a rich, cheesy sauce featuring garlic, bell pepper, and Italian seasoning. Tossed with al dente spaghetti and baked until bubbly and golden, this comforting casserole makes the perfect hearty family meal.
Ingredients
Pasta and Protein
- 10 ounces spaghetti
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
Vegetables and Seasoning
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 (14 ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained
Cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
Instructions
- Preheat and Cook Pasta: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside to keep warm.
- Make Sauce: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, sauté the minced garlic and chopped green bell pepper in butter until they are tender and fragrant. Stir in the flour and Italian seasoning, cooking for about 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and milk, bringing the mixture to a boil. Then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the sauce thickens.
- Combine Ingredients: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in half of the shredded mozzarella cheese until it melts smoothly into the sauce. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Add the cooked spaghetti, shredded chicken, and drained diced tomatoes to the skillet, stirring gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Bake: Transfer the combined mixture into a lightly greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is lightly browned along the edges.
Notes
- Ensure the spaghetti is not overcooked since it will bake further in the oven.
- Drain the diced tomatoes well to avoid excess liquid in the casserole.
- You can substitute cooked rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- For a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk and cheese alternatives.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
