This Chicken Spaghetti Bake is a warm and cheesy delight! It brings together tender chicken, pasta, and a creamy sauce, topped with bubbly cheese. It’s comfort food at its best!
I love how it’s super easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd. You can even sneak in some veggies for extra color. Trust me, everyone will ask for seconds! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: Regular spaghetti works great, but you can swap it with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if needed. I like using thin spaghetti for a lighter texture.
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is super convenient for this recipe. If you have leftovers, go ahead and use those! You can also use canned chicken or even a plant-based option for a vegetarian twist.
Diced Tomatoes: If you’re fresh out of canned diced tomatoes, consider using a different canned tomato product, like crushed or whole tomatoes. Just chop them up! For a little kick, try adding diced green chilies.
Cheese: Mozzarella brings that gooey melty goodness. You could substitute with provolone or any favorite melting cheese. I love adding pepper jack for a spicy kick!
How Do I Get My Cheese Melty and Golden?
Getting that perfect cheesy top is key to a great Chicken Spaghetti Bake! Here are some tips to help you achieve that golden, crispy layer:
- Preheat the oven well to ensure even cooking.
- Don’t cover the dish while baking; this helps the cheese brown.
- For an extra crispy top, switch to broil for the last 2-3 minutes, but keep a close eye on it to prevent burning!
Easy Chicken Spaghetti Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bake:
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or spaghetti sauce
For the Cheese Topping:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for extra flavor)
For Garnishing:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Additional Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chicken Spaghetti Bake will take you about 10 minutes to prepare and around 25-30 minutes to cook. In no time, you’ll be serving up a delicious and hearty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and take a moment to lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish so your delicious bake doesn’t stick!
2. Cook the Spaghetti:
Next, cook the spaghetti according to the package directions until it’s al dente, meaning it should be tender but still have a bit of bite. Once done, drained it well and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and sauté it until it’s slightly softened—about 3-4 minutes. Then add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for another minute, until it’s fragrant!
4. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, shredded chicken, sautéed onions and garlic, drained diced tomatoes, and marinara sauce. Mix everything together well. Don’t forget to add salt and pepper to taste to bring out all the flavors!
5. Assemble the Bake:
Now, transfer the spaghetti mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This ensures everyone gets a lovely scoop when serving!
6. Add the Cheese:
It’s cheese time! Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and optional cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the spaghetti mixture, covering it like a cozy blanket of cheesy goodness.
7. Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye out for that cheese; it should be melted, bubbly, and slightly golden when it’s ready!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, carefully remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with the chopped fresh parsley for a bit of color and freshness, then serve and enjoy your hearty, cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Bake!
Enjoy your meal with family and friends—it’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is a great way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand. Just make sure it’s shredded into bite-sized pieces for even distribution in the bake.
What Can I Substitute for Spaghetti?
If you’re looking for alternatives to spaghetti, feel free to use any pasta shape you like, such as penne or fusilli. Gluten-free pasta is also an option if you have dietary restrictions.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, just pop it in the microwave or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step and refrigerate it for 1-2 days. Just cover it with foil to keep it fresh. Bake it straight from the fridge, but you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
