Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole to Delight Your Family

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

On a chilly evening, as I rummaged through my pantry, I stumbled upon the perfect combination of ingredients that transformed a mundane night into a cozy family feast. Enter the Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole with Pimento Peppers a dish that not only warms your heart but also excites your taste buds. The creamy, gooey layers of cheese combined with tender chicken and a hint of tang from the pimento peppers create a delightful twist on traditional pasta dishes that s hard to resist.

Busy weeknights are no match for this comforting casserole. In less time than it takes to order takeout, you ll have a scrumptious meal that pleases both kids and adults alike. No need to fuss over frying chicken; this easy recipe lets you whip up a hearty dinner without the hassle. So, grab your ingredients and let s dive into this deliciously simple dish that s destined to become a family favorite!

Why will you love Chicken Spaghetti casserole?

Comforting and Hearty: This Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, bringing warmth and satisfaction in every bite.

Quick to Prepare: So quick and easy! You can have it ready in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights without sacrificing taste.

Cheesy Goodness: With gooey layers of melted cheese and creamy textures, it s a flavor sensation that appeals to the whole family.

Customizable: Experiment with different proteins like turkey or ham, or mix in your favorite veggies for added nutrition and flavor.

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it s a family gathering or a weeknight dinner, this dish is bound to impress and keep everyone coming back for more!

Pair this casserole with a refreshing Tangy Tomato Cucumber Onion Salad for a complete meal experience that s sure to delight.

Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Ingredients

Here s everything you need to whip up this comforting dish!

For the Casserole

• Shredded Chicken Breasts Provides protein and moisture; can use pre-cooked chicken for convenience.
• Spaghetti Acts as the base carb; break into thirds and cook al dente for best texture.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup Adds creaminess and umami flavor; cream of celery can be used as an alternative.
• Grated Cheddar Cheese Main source of cheesiness; consider adding mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
• Cream of Chicken Soup Enhances richness and flavor.
• Chopped Orange and Green Bell Peppers Provide freshness and slight crunch; red bell pepper adds sweetness if preferred.
• Minced Onion Adds depth of flavor; shallots can be a milder substitute.
• Garlic Clove (minced) Boosts flavor and aroma; garlic powder works if fresh is unavailable.
• Diced Pimentos Offers a unique tangy flavor; can substitute with chopped olives if needed.
• Chicken Broth Adds moisture and flavor; vegetable broth makes for a lighter option.
• Cayenne Pepper Brings a hint of heat; adjust or omit based on your spice preference.
• Salt and Pepper Essential for seasoning to taste.

Feel free to mix and match these ingredients based on your family s preferences, and enjoy the delightful flavors of Chicken Spaghetti casserole!

How to Make Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 350 °F (175 °C). This ensures that your casserole will bake evenly, giving you that perfect cheesy top!

2. Break spaghetti into thirds and cook in boiling water for 1 minute less than the package instructions for al dente texture, which helps maintain the noodle s integrity in the bake.

3. Combine the cooked spaghetti with all ingredients except for ½ cup of cheddar cheese in a large mixing bowl. Mix well until everything is fully integrated, making sure each noodle is coated in deliciousness!

4. Transfer the mixture into a greased 9 x 13-inch casserole dish. Spread it out evenly, so every bite is as delightful as the last.

5. Top with the reserved cheddar cheese. This is where the magic happens; the cheese will melt to create a bubbly, golden layer that everyone loves!

6. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Your kitchen will be filled with an irresistible aroma!

Optional: Sprinkle fresh parsley for an added touch of color and freshness.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

• Cook Spaghetti Al Dente: Ensure spaghetti is slightly undercooked by boiling for one minute less than package instructions to prevent mushiness after baking.

• Watch for Browning: If the casserole starts browning too quickly, cover it with foil for the first 15 minutes to get perfect results every time.

• Storage Know-How: Use an airtight container for leftovers, which will keep for up to four days in the refrigerator. You can also freeze an unbaked casserole for up to four months; remember to label with the date!

• Taste as You Go: Be sure to season with salt and pepper to taste, as the flavors will develop beautifully during baking; this elevates your Chicken Spaghetti experience!

• Customize for You: Don t hesitate to mix in your preferred veggies or change up the protein to suit your family s tastes and dietary needs!

Make Ahead Options

This Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is perfect for meal prep and can save you valuable time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance by assembling it in a greased baking dish, then covering it tightly with plastic wrap. Just make sure to refrigerate it to maintain freshness. When you re ready to bake, simply remove the wrap, sprinkle the reserved cheddar cheese on top, and pop it in the oven. Bake at 350 °F (175 °C) for 30-35 minutes, until bubbly and golden. This way, you ll have a comforting, homemade meal with minimal effort, making your dinner routine smoother and more enjoyable!

What to Serve with Chicken Spaghetti Casserole?

Create a delightful dining experience that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds.

• Tangy Tomato Cucumber Onion Salad: The refreshing crunch and acidity of this salad balance the richness of the casserole. It feels like a summer picnic on a plate.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts Casserole: A savory side that adds a caramelized touch and nutty flavor to complement the creamy pasta, creating a perfect harmony of tastes.
• Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks offer a scrumptious way to soak up any leftover cheesy goodness. Their warmth enhances the homey vibe of the meal.
• Creamy Coleslaw: Crisp and tangy, this side dish provides a wonderful contrast to the hearty casserole, adding freshness and crunch.
• Steamed Broccoli: A light and vibrant vegetable option that adds nutrients and color to your plate, making it a wholesome duo with the pasta.
• Iced Tea: A refreshing drink to sip on while enjoying your meal, its subtle sweetness and chilled nature create a comforting approach to family dinners.
• Cheesecake with Fresh Berries: For dessert, this sweet treat brings a delightful ending that echoes the creaminess of the casserole while adding a touch of fruity brightness.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and rich, they pair perfectly with the casserole for those who want an extra dose of comfort. Flavors meld deliciously for a cozy evening.

How to Store and Freeze Chicken Spaghetti

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days, keeping the delicious flavors intact and making quick meals accessible on busy days.

Freezer: If you want to prep ahead, freeze the unbaked Chicken Spaghetti Casserole for up to 4 months. Just make sure to label with the date for easy reference.

Reheating: To reheat, simply bake from frozen at 350 °F (175 °C) for about an hour, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions until warm.

Thawing: If frozen, allow the casserole to thaw in the fridge overnight before baking for best results; this helps maintain the creamy texture and delicious flavor.

Chicken Spaghetti Variations

Feel free to get creative with this cozy casserole and tailor it to your family s tastes!

• Protein Swap: Replace shredded chicken with turkey or cooked sausage for a hearty twist on the protein.

• Veggie Boost: Add spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and texture, making each bite even more satisfying. The more color, the better!

• Cheese Change: Experiment with different cheeses like feta or gouda to transform the flavor profile and add a special touch.

• Heat Factor: For those who love a kick, mix in chopped jalapeños or sprinkle red pepper flakes for added heat and excitement.

• Creamy Upgrade: Stir in a little cream cheese or sour cream to enhance the creaminess, resulting in an even richer, more indulgent dish.

• Pasta Variety: Switch the spaghetti for another pasta shape, such as penne or rotini, to give it a fun twist that the kids will love.

• Flavor Infusion: Add a splash of hot sauce or a few shakes of Worcestershire sauce for complex flavor that will make everyone eager for seconds.

• Fresh Herbs: Toss in fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or thyme before baking for a vibrant and aromatic finish.

Your Chicken Spaghetti Casserole can be as unique as you want it to be, creating endless comforts at your dinner table!

Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using shredded chicken breasts for their moisture and protein. You can either boil and shred raw chicken or, for convenience, use pre-cooked chicken from the store. Just ensure any pre-cooked chicken you use is shredded into bite-sized pieces for even distribution within the casserole.

How long can I store leftovers of the Chicken Spaghetti Casserole?
Very! Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This keeps your casserole fresh and allows you to enjoy a quick meal later in the week. Just reheat in the oven for the best texture!

Can I freeze Chicken Spaghetti Casserole?
Absolutely! If you want to prep in advance, you can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 4 months. To do this, simply assemble the casserole, cover it well with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, and label it with the date. When you re ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed.

What should I do if my casserole is browning too quickly in the oven?
No worries! If you see the top browning too fast, just cover the casserole with foil for the first 15 minutes of the baking time. This will help the cheese melt evenly without burning while the rest of the casserole gets fully cooked.

Is this dish safe for my family if they have allergies?
It s very important to check! This Chicken Spaghetti Casserole contains common allergens like chicken, dairy (cheese and soups), and gluten (spaghetti). For those with allergies, consider using gluten-free pasta and substitute dairy with non-dairy alternatives like coconut or almond cream. Always ensure to read labels carefully and consult with your family about specific allergens!