If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting, and easy-to-make meal, this chicken spaghetti recipe is the perfect dish! This classic recipe combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked spaghetti, and a rich, creamy sauce, making it a delicious one-pot meal for busy weeknights, family dinners, or meal prep.

Unlike traditional Italian spaghetti, which features a tomato-based sauce, chicken spaghetti is known for its creamy, cheesy texture. The best part? This easy chicken spaghetti recipe is highly customizable! Whether you love a bit of spice, prefer a baked chicken spaghetti version, or need a healthier alternative, there’s a variation for you.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best chicken spaghetti recipe, complete with step-by-step instructions, pro tips, and easy storage methods to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time!

Ingredients for Chicken Spaghetti

This chicken spaghetti recipe uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients, and you probably already have most of them in your kitchen. Whether you’re making a cheesy chicken spaghetti or a baked chicken spaghetti recipe, the key is to use fresh and flavorful ingredients for the best results.

Main Ingredients:

2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!)
12 oz spaghetti (or any pasta of choice)
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 cup chicken broth
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup sour cream (for extra creaminess)
½ cup diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Rotel, for added flavor)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a hint of smokiness)
Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Add-ins for More Flavor:

½ cup bell peppers, chopped (adds sweetness and crunch)
½ cup mushrooms, sliced (for an earthy touch)
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
½ cup cooked bacon bits (because bacon makes everything better!)

Topping (Optional but Recommended!):

½ cup shredded parmesan cheese
¼ cup breadcrumbs (for a crispy baked version)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Now that we have everything ready, let’s move on to the cooking process!

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Chicken Spaghetti

Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s dive into this chicken spaghetti recipe step by step. This easy chicken spaghetti recipe is simple, requires minimal prep, and can be made in just 30-40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights!

A plate of creamy chicken spaghetti served with garlic bread on a rustic wooden table.

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the spaghetti and cook 1-2 minutes.
Drain the pasta, toss it with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking, and set it aside.
Pro Tip: Cooking the pasta slightly underdone ensures it won’t become mushy when combined with the sauce.

Cook the Chicken (If Not Using Pre-Cooked Chicken)

If you’re using raw chicken breasts, season them with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of paprika.
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until fully cooked.
Remove the chicken from the pan, let it rest for a few minutes, then shred it using two forks or dice it into small pieces.
Shortcut: If using rotisserie chicken, simply shred it and set it aside.

Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same pan (or a new large pot), melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
Add diced tomatoes with green chilies and optional veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
Stir in cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth. Mix well until smooth.
Add sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir until everything is well combined.
Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce.

Combine Everything

Add the shredded chicken to the sauce and stir well.
Toss in the cooked spaghetti and mix everything until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Serve or Bake (Optional)

At this point, you can serve the chicken spaghetti straight from the pan, but if you prefer a baked version with a crispy, cheesy top, follow these steps:

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Transfer the chicken spaghetti mixture into a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Sprinkle extra shredded cheddar cheese, parmesan, and breadcrumbs on top.
Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden brown.
Remove from the oven.

Enjoy!

Pair it with garlic bread, a fresh salad, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Best Tips for Perfect Chicken Spaghetti

This chicken spaghetti recipe is simple, but a few pro tips can take it from good to absolutely amazing! Follow these expert tricks to make the best chicken spaghetti recipe—creamy, flavorful, and packed with cheesy goodness.

A casserole dish of baked chicken spaghetti with a golden cheese crust, fresh out of the oven.

1. Use the Right Type of Chicken

Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut because it’s already seasoned and tender.
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work well, but be careful not to overcook them, or they can become dry.
Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful if you prefer a richer taste.

2. Don’t Overcook the Pasta

Since the pasta will absorb sauce and cook a bit more once mixed in, boil it 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions.
If you’re baking the dish, undercooking the pasta slightly is even more important to avoid mushiness.

3. Make It Extra Creamy

Using a combination of cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, and sour cream creates a luxuriously creamy texture.
If you like even more creaminess, add 4 oz of cream cheese or ½ cup of heavy cream when making the sauce.
Stirring in a little reserved pasta water can also help loosen the sauce while keeping it rich.

4. Choose the Best Cheese

Sharp cheddar cheese adds the most flavor, but you can also mix in mozzarella for stretchiness.
For a more gourmet touch, try Gouda, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack if you like a little spice.
Always use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged shredded cheese, which contains anti-caking agents that affect melting.

5. Add a Little Heat (If You Like Spice!)

Diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel) naturally add a mild kick.
Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for an extra boost.
Pepper Jack cheese instead of cheddar adds heat without overpowering the dish.

6. Enhance the Flavor with Seasonings

The canned soups provide a great base, but adding extra garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a touch of Italian seasoning brings out a deeper flavor.
A dash of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce can add a unique, savory depth.

7. Avoid a Watery Sauce

If your sauce feels too thin, let it simmer for a few minutes before adding the pasta to help it thicken.
If it’s too thick, add a splash of chicken broth, milk, or reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.

8. Get the Perfect Baked Finish

Baking is optional but creates a golden, crispy top. To get the best results:
- Use a mix of cheddar and parmesan for the top layer.
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter for extra crunch.
- Bake uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or until the top is bubbly and slightly golden.

9. Let It Rest Before Serving

After cooking, let the dish sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken and fully coat the pasta.

10. Make It a One-Pot Meal

If you want to avoid extra dishes, cook everything in a large, oven-safe skillet so you can transfer it straight into the oven without using a separate baking dish.

Variations and Customizations

One of the best things about chicken spaghetti is its versatility! You can easily tweak the recipe to match your personal preferences, dietary needs, or the ingredients you have on hand. Here are some delicious variations to try:

1. Spicy Chicken Spaghetti

If you love a little heat, spice up your chicken spaghetti with these simple additions:

Use Pepper Jack cheese instead of cheddar for a spicy kick.
Add 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Use hot Rotel (diced tomatoes with habaneros) instead of the mild version.
Stir in chopped jalapeños for extra spiciness.

2. Creamy Baked Chicken Spaghetti

If you prefer a richer and creamier texture, try this baked version:

Add 4 oz of cream cheese to the sauce for extra creaminess.
Mix in ½ cup of heavy cream or evaporated milk for a velvety texture.
Top with a combination of cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan before baking.
Sprinkle buttered breadcrumbs on top for a crispy finish.

3. Healthier Chicken Spaghetti

Want a lighter version without sacrificing flavor? Try these adjustments:

Use whole wheat or chickpea pasta instead of regular spaghetti.
Swap Greek yogurt for sour cream to cut down on fat while keeping it creamy.
Replace cream of mushroom and cream of chicken soup with a homemade sauce using low-fat milk, broth, and cornstarch.
Add extra vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms to boost the nutrition.

4. Gluten-Free Chicken Spaghetti

If you’re avoiding gluten, here’s how to modify the recipe:

Use gluten-free pasta (brown rice or quinoa pasta works well).
Replace canned soups with a homemade creamy sauce using gluten-free flour or cornstarch.
Make sure your broth and seasonings are certified gluten-free.

5. Cheesy Tex-Mex Chicken Spaghetti

For a Tex-Mex twist, add some Southwestern flavors:

Use Monterey Jack or queso fresco instead of cheddar.
Add 1 teaspoon of taco seasoning to the sauce.
Mix in black beans, corn, and diced green chilies for extra texture.
Serve with tortilla chips or guacamole on the side.

6. Vegetarian Chicken Spaghetti

If you want a meat-free version, try these swaps:

Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, tofu, or a plant-based meat alternative.
Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Load up on extra veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and spinach for added flavor.

7. Cajun Chicken Spaghetti

For a Louisiana-inspired flavor, add:

1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning to the sauce.
Smoked sausage sliced into thin rounds for extra protein.
Diced celery, onions, and bell peppers (also known as the “holy trinity” of Cajun cooking).

8. Extra Meaty Chicken Spaghetti

If you want to increase the protein, try:

Mixing in crumbled bacon or diced ham for a smoky taste.
Adding cooked Italian sausage for a more robust flavor.
Using shredded turkey instead of chicken for a holiday-inspired twist.

9. No-Bake Stovetop Chicken Spaghetti

Short on time? Skip the oven and make a stovetop-only version:

After mixing the spaghetti with the sauce, let it simmer for 5 minutes on low heat.
Stir occasionally until everything is well combined and heated through.
Top with cheese and cover with a lid for 2-3 minutes until melted.

10. Dairy-Free Chicken Spaghetti

If you’re avoiding dairy, try these alternatives:

Use dairy-free cheese for a cheesy flavor.
Replace cream soups with a homemade cashew or coconut milk-based sauce.
Swap sour cream with unsweetened coconut yogurt or dairy-free cream cheese.

No matter which variation you choose, chicken spaghetti is a deliciously adaptable dish that can fit any dietary need or flavor preference.

What to Serve with Chicken Spaghetti

Chicken spaghetti is a rich, comforting dish, so pairing it with the right side dishes can balance out the meal and add variety to your plate. Here are some of the best sides to serve with chicken spaghetti!

1. Garlic Bread 🍞

A classic side for any pasta dish! The buttery, garlicky flavor perfectly complements the creamy spaghetti.

Try cheesy garlic bread for an extra indulgent option.
Use Texas toast for a thick, crispy bite.
Opt for homemade garlic knots if you want something fun and bite-sized.

2. Fresh Green Salad 🥗

A light, refreshing salad cuts through the richness of chicken spaghetti.

Caesar salad with crisp romaine, parmesan, and croutons.
Garden salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette.
Spinach and strawberry salad with feta and balsamic dressing.

3. Roasted Vegetables 🥦

A simple side that adds flavor and nutrition!

Roasted broccoli or asparagus with olive oil and garlic.
Honey-glazed carrots for a sweet and savory balance.
Zucchini and bell peppers tossed with Italian seasoning.

4. Steamed or Sautéed Greens 🌿

Leafy greens bring freshness and color to your plate.

Garlic sautéed spinach with a dash of lemon juice.
Collard greens cooked with a bit of bacon for extra flavor.
Steamed kale with a sprinkle of sea salt and olive oil.

5. Southern Cornbread 🌽

For a Southern twist, serve chicken spaghetti with warm, buttery cornbread.

Try jalapeño cheddar cornbread for a spicy kick.
Go for honey cornbread if you like a touch of sweetness.
Use cornbread muffins for an easy, portion-controlled side.

6. Classic Coleslaw 🥬

A tangy, crunchy coleslaw adds refreshing contrast to the creamy spaghetti.

Traditional coleslaw with a mayo-based dressing.
Vinegar-based slaw for a lighter option.
Apple slaw with shredded cabbage and crisp apples for a sweet-tart flavor.

7. Baked Potatoes or Mashed Potatoes 🥔

If you want a hearty side, potatoes are a great choice!

Loaded baked potatoes with sour cream, cheese, and bacon.
Creamy mashed potatoes for a smooth, buttery pairing.
Sweet potato fries for a crispy, slightly sweet alternative.

8. Breadsticks or Dinner Rolls 🍞

Soft, warm bread is perfect for soaking up the extra creamy sauce!

Homemade breadsticks brushed with butter and herbs.
Hawaiian rolls for a slightly sweet contrast.
Sourdough rolls for a tangy, chewy bite.

9. Grilled or Sautéed Shrimp 🍤

For a surf-and-turf twist, serve a small portion of shrimp alongside your spaghetti.

Garlic butter shrimp for a rich, flavorful touch.
Cajun shrimp for a spicy contrast.
Lemon herb shrimp for a light and zesty addition.

10. Fried Okra or Zucchini 🍽️

A crispy, Southern-style side that pairs wonderfully with creamy pasta.

Classic fried okra with a crunchy, seasoned coating.
Crispy zucchini fries for a healthier, veggie-packed alternative.
Air-fried versions for a lighter twist.

Beverage Pairings 🥤🍷

Pairing the right drink with chicken spaghetti elevates the meal. Here are some options:

Iced tea (sweet or unsweetened) – a classic Southern favorite.
Lemonade – adds a bright, citrusy contrast.
White wine (Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc) – balances the creamy sauce.
Sparkling water with lemon – a refreshing non-alcoholic choice.

With these delicious side dishes, you can turn chicken spaghetti into a complete, well-rounded meal that satisfies every craving!

Storage and Reheating Tips

Chicken spaghetti is a fantastic dish for meal prep because it stores and reheats well. Whether you want to keep leftovers for the next day or freeze a batch for later, here’s how to do it properly.

How to Store Chicken Spaghetti

1. Refrigerating Leftovers

Allow the chicken spaghetti to cool completely before storing.
Transfer it to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
If you added seafood (like shrimp), eat within 2 days for the best freshness.

2. Freezing for Later

Chicken spaghetti freezes well, making it a great make-ahead meal! Here’s how:

Unbaked Freezing Option: Assemble the dish but don’t bake it. Cover tightly then freeze.
Baked Freezing Option: Let the cooked spaghetti cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe dish or portion it into freezer bags.
Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

How to Reheat Chicken Spaghetti

1. Reheating on the Stovetop (Best for Creaminess)

Add the leftover chicken spaghetti to a large skillet over medium-low heat.
Stir in a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce.
Heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

2. Reheating in the Microwave (Fastest Option)

Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish.
Add a little milk, broth, or water to prevent dryness.
Cover with a damp paper towel and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully heated.

3. Reheating in the Oven (Best for Large Portions)

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Transfer chicken spaghetti to a baking dish and cover with foil.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
If dry, stir in a little extra cheese or sauce before baking.

4. Reheating from Frozen

Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheat using the oven, stovetop, or microwave following the methods above.
If baking from frozen, cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 45-50 minutes until hot and bubbly.

Pro Tips for the Best Reheated Chicken Spaghetti

Always add a bit of liquid (milk, broth, or water) to keep the sauce creamy.
Stir occasionally when reheating on the stovetop to distribute heat evenly.
Avoid overheating in the microwave, as this can cause the sauce to separate.
If reheating in the oven, covering the dish with foil helps retain moisture.

With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy chicken spaghetti fresh and delicious anytime!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though chicken spaghetti is a simple dish, a few common mistakes can affect the texture, flavor, or overall outcome. Here’s what to watch out for so your dish turns out perfect every time!

1. Overcooking the Pasta

Since the pasta will continue to cook in the sauce, boiling it for too long can make it mushy.
Solution: Cook the pasta 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions, especially if baking.

2. Using Pre-Shredded Cheese

Solution: Always use freshly shredded cheese for the best texture and creaminess.

3. Not Seasoning the Chicken Properly

Chicken can taste bland if not seasoned well before adding it to the spaghetti.
Solution: Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika before cooking.

4. Using Too Much or Too Little Sauce

A too-thin sauce makes the dish watery, while a too-thick sauce causes it to dry out.
Solution: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth, milk, or reserved pasta water. If too thin, let it simmer a little longer before adding pasta.

5. Not Mixing the Sauce and Pasta Well

If you don’t mix the spaghetti thoroughly with the sauce, some bites will be dry while others will be overly saucy.
Solution: Toss the pasta and sauce together until every strand is evenly coated.

6. Baking for Too Long Without Covering

Overbaking can dry out the spaghetti, especially if baked uncovered.
Solution: If baking, cover with foil for the first half, then remove it for the last few minutes to get a golden top.

7. Skipping the Extra Creaminess

Chicken spaghetti is best when it’s rich and creamy, but some people skip the ingredients that add that texture.
Solution: Use sour cream, cream cheese, or heavy cream to make the sauce extra velvety.

8. Not Letting It Rest Before Serving

Serving chicken spaghetti immediately after cooking can make the sauce too runny.
Solution: Let it rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking to allow the sauce to thicken.

9. Not Storing and Reheating Properly

If reheated without added moisture, chicken spaghetti can dry out.
Solution: Always add a splash of milk, broth, or water before reheating and stir occasionally.

10. Forgetting the Garnish

A simple sprinkle of fresh parsley, extra cheese, or red pepper flakes can elevate the dish visually and taste-wise.
Solution: Always add a final garnish for a fresh and appealing presentation.

By avoiding these common mistakes, your chicken spaghetti will always turn out creamy, flavorful, and delicious!

Try a Tex-Mex twist with Mexican Chicken Salad ingredients like black beans and corn. And Chicken Broccoli Alfredo for another creamy pasta dish. Try pairing it with Crispy Baked Chicken Wings for an extra satisfying meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What All Goes in Chicken Spaghetti?

Chicken spaghetti typically includes cooked shredded chicken, spaghetti pasta, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. The key ingredients are:

Chicken (rotisserie, grilled, or shredded boiled chicken)
Spaghetti noodles (or any pasta of choice)
Cream of mushroom soup & cream of chicken soup (for a creamy base)
Chicken broth (to adjust sauce consistency)
Cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
Sour cream or cream cheese (for extra creaminess)
Diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel) (for added flavor)
Garlic powder, onion powder, and seasonings
Optional veggies (bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach)
Some versions are baked with extra cheese and breadcrumbs for a crispy top.

What Is the Difference Between Chicken Spaghetti and Chicken Tetrazzini?

Both dishes feature chicken and pasta in a creamy sauce, but they have key differences:

Sauce Base:
- Chicken Spaghetti uses a cheesy, creamy sauce (often with canned soups like cream of mushroom or cream of chicken).
- Chicken Tetrazzini has a cream-based or béchamel sauce made with heavy cream, butter, and parmesan for a silkier texture.
Type of Pasta:
- Chicken Spaghetti traditionally uses spaghetti noodles.
- Chicken Tetrazzini is typically made with fettuccine, linguine, or egg noodles.
Flavor Profile:
- Chicken Spaghetti has a Southern-style taste, often incorporating Rotel (diced tomatoes with chilies) and cheddar cheese.
- Chicken Tetrazzini is more Italian-inspired, using mushrooms, wine, and parmesan cheese for a more delicate, creamy flavor.
Baking Style:
- Chicken Spaghetti can be served as is or baked with extra cheese for a crispy top.
- Chicken Tetrazzini is almost always baked with breadcrumbs and parmesan for a golden crust.

What Is the Secret to Good Spaghetti?

The secret to delicious spaghetti, whether it’s chicken spaghetti or traditional pasta, includes:

Cooking Pasta Correctly:
- Use salted boiling water for flavor.
- Cook the pasta 1-2 minutes less than the package says to avoid overcooking.
Using Fresh Ingredients:
- Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-packaged cheese.
- Homemade sauce (instead of canned soups) enhances flavor.
Balancing Sauce Consistency:
- If the sauce is too thick, add a little chicken broth or milk.
- If it’s too thin, let it simmer longer before mixing with pasta.
Layering Flavors:
- Season the chicken before cooking for more depth.
- Add garlic, onions, smoked paprika, or cayenne for a flavor boost.
Letting It Rest:
- Let chicken spaghetti sit for 5-10 minutes after cooking so the sauce thickens and coats the pasta evenly.

Why Is It Called “Marry Me Chicken Pasta”?

“Marry Me Chicken Pasta” gets its name because it’s so delicious and irresistible that it could make someone want to propose after tasting it! 😍

It became popular online with food bloggers claiming it’s “so good, it could make someone fall in love”, leading to the romantic name!

The dish features chicken in a creamy, flavorful sun-dried tomato sauce, often made with heavy cream, parmesan cheese, garlic, and Italian herbs.

The rich, velvety sauce paired with juicy chicken and pasta makes it an elegant yet easy dish, perfect for date nights or special occasions.

Conclusion

Chicken spaghetti is the perfect comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor! Whether you’re making this chicken spaghetti recipe for a busy weeknight dinner, a potluck, or meal prep, this dish is always a hit. With so many variations, you can easily customize your chicken spaghetti to fit your taste—whether you want it spicy, baked, extra creamy, or even a healthier version.

By following the tips and tricks in this guide, you’ll ensure that your chicken spaghetti recipe turns out perfectly every time. Remember to:
Slightly undercook the pasta so your chicken spaghetti doesn’t turn mushy.
Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melting and creamy chicken spaghetti texture.
Adjust the sauce consistency to avoid it being too thick or watery.
Store and reheat your cheesy chicken spaghetti properly to keep it tasting fresh.
Experiment with different flavors like Tex-Mex chicken spaghetti, Cajun-style, or a lighter version.

Whether you serve this easy chicken spaghetti recipe with garlic bread, salad, or roasted veggies, it’s a crowd-pleasing meal that everyone will love. So go ahead, grab your ingredients, and make this delicious chicken spaghetti recipe tonight!

Chicken Spaghetti Recipe – Creamy, Cheesy & Easy Comfort Food

This chicken spaghetti recipe is the ultimate comfort food! It’s packed with tender shredded chicken, creamy cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, making it a family favorite. Whether baked or served straight from the stovetop, this dish is rich, flavorful, and easy to prepare. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 25

Total Time 35

Course Main Course

Cuisine American, Southern

Servings 6

Equipment

✔️ Large pot (for boiling pasta)
✔️ Deep skillet or saucepan (for the sauce)
✔️ Baking dish (if making the baked version)
✔ Wooden spoon or spatula
✔️ Cheese grater (for fresh cheese)
✔️ Measuring cups & spoons

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:
2 cups cooked shredded chicken rotisserie or boiled
12 oz spaghetti or pasta of choice
1 can 10.5 oz cream of mushroom soup
1 can 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup
1 cup chicken broth for a creamy sauce
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese plus extra for topping
½ cup sour cream
½ cup diced tomatoes with green chilies such as Rotel
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika optional, for extra flavor
Salt & black pepper to taste
Optional Add-Ins:
½ cup chopped bell peppers adds sweetness and crunch
½ cup mushrooms sliced (for an earthy flavor)
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
½ cup crispy bacon bits for extra flavor
Topping For Baked Version:
½ cup shredded parmesan cheese
¼ cup breadcrumbs for a crispy crust
Fresh parsley chopped

Instructions

Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the spaghetti and cook 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions.
Drain the pasta, toss with a little oil to prevent sticking, and set aside.
Cook the Chicken (If Not Pre-Cooked):
If using raw chicken, season it with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Cook for 4-5 minutes per side until fully cooked.
Let it rest, then shred with two forks or dice into small pieces.
Make the Creamy Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
Add diced tomatoes (Rotel) and optional veggies (like bell peppers or mushrooms). Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
Stir in cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth. Mix well.
Add sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth.
Reduce heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, letting it melt.
Combine Everything:
Add the shredded chicken and mix well.
Toss in the cooked spaghetti, stirring until everything is evenly coated.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve or Bake (Optional):
✅ Stovetop Version: Serve immediately with extra cheese and parsley on top.
✅ Baked Version:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased baking dish.
Sprinkle extra cheddar, parmesan, and breadcrumbs on top.
Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot!

Notes

For extra creaminess, add 4 oz cream cheese to the sauce.
For a spicier version, use hot Rotel or cayenne pepper.
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Store in a freezer-safe dish for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

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