This Chicken Spaghetti Bake combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and pasta baked together to perfection. It’s a cozy meal that everyone will love!
It’s like a warm hug in a dish! I like to serve it with a side salad, and don’t be surprised if you find yourself going back for seconds—it’s just that tasty! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: Regular spaghetti works great here. If you’re looking for something different, try whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. They both hold up well in the bake.
Cooked Chicken: I often use rotisserie chicken for its flavor and ease. Leftover grilled chicken or even turkey is a great substitute if you have them on hand!
Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes are convenient, but you can swap them with fresh chopped tomatoes if you prefer a fresher taste. Just make sure to adjust cooking time to let them soften.
Cheese: Mozzarella is a classic choice for its stringy texture, but feel free to mix in some Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for extra flavor. Just keep the cheddar for that cheesy bite!
Spices: I love paprika and oregano, but really, feel free to personalize this with your favorite herbs, like basil or thyme. They can add a unique twist!
How Can I Make Sure My Bake Is Creamy and Flavorful?
To achieve that perfect creamy and flavorful bake, focus on combining ingredients well and simmering them. Here’s what I recommend:
- After cooking the onions and garlic, let them really mingle with the chicken and spices before adding liquids.
- Simmering the diced tomatoes and broth with the chicken allows the flavors to blend. This step is key!
- When mixing with spaghetti, ensure everything is well-coated and evenly distributed in the baking dish.
- Don’t skip on the cheese topping; it adds that creamy layer you want. I usually add a little extra for good measure!
Chicken Spaghetti Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional, for a mild kick)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce or marinara sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Chicken Spaghetti Bake takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. So in about 45 minutes, you’ll have a warm, cheesy meal ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready for baking. This helps everything come out nice and bubbly!
2. Cook the Spaghetti:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which means it should be firm to the bite. Once done, drain it and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
While your pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
4. Add Chicken and Spices:
Stir the shredded chicken into the skillet. Add the paprika, dried oregano, chili powder (if you want a little kick), and some salt and pepper. Mix everything well so the chicken gets coated in those lovely spices.
5. Mix in the Tomatoes and Broth:
Now, pour in the drained diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and tomato sauce. Stir it all together and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This step lets all those wonderful flavors blend together!
6. Combine with the Spaghetti:
In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooked spaghetti with the chicken and tomato mixture. Toss it all together to make sure every strand of pasta is coated in that yummy mixture.
7. Add Cheese:
Mix in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and the cheddar cheese, stirring to combine everything evenly. Cheese makes everything better!
8. Transfer to a Baking Dish:
Pour the spaghetti mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Smooth it out evenly, and then sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese on top. More cheese is always a good idea!
9. Bake:
Slide the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You want the cheese to be fully melted and bubbly, with edges that are slightly golden.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
When it’s done, carefully remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness. Dig in and enjoy your delicious Chicken Spaghetti Bake!
This comforting bake is perfect for family dinners, and trust me, leftovers (if there are any!) make for a tasty lunch the next day. Enjoy! 😊
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is classic, you can use any pasta you like, such as penne, rotini, or even gluten-free pasta. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, simply replace the chicken with cooked vegetables, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach. You can also add some beans for protein, like black beans or chickpeas!
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers! Just make sure to let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.
What Should I Serve With Chicken Spaghetti Bake?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or garlic bread. You could also serve it with steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal!
