Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Bake Recipe

If you’re anything like me, you’ll find the Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Bake Recipe to be one of those comforting dishes that feel like a warm hug in a bowl. I love how the creamy sauce wraps itself around every strand of spaghetti, combined with tender chicken and melty mozzarella—it’s truly irresistible. Whether you’re making a cozy family dinner or bringing a dish to a potluck, this recipe always brings smiles to the table.

When I first tried this, I was amazed at how simple ingredients come together to make something so special. You’ll appreciate how quick it is to throw together yet feels impressive enough to serve to guests. Plus, it’s forgiving to customize, so you can make it your own without any stress. Trust me, once you try this Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Bake Recipe, it’ll become a staple in your rotation.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on simple staples that balance beautifully. The key is fresh chicken and mozzarella to create that signature creaminess and gooey, melty texture.

• Dry spaghetti noodles: I recommend cooking until just al dente since the pasta will continue cooking in the oven.
• Unsalted butter: Helps sauté the garlic and bell pepper, adding richness to the sauce.
• Garlic (minced): Adds fragrant depth to the sauce.
• Green bell pepper (chopped): Provides a fresh pop of flavor; you can swap for mushrooms or spinach if you want.
• All-purpose flour: This is what thickens the creamy sauce to perfection.
• Italian seasoning: Blends perfectly to add a subtle herby warmth.
• Heavy whipping cream: Essential for that luscious, velvety texture.
• Chicken broth: Adds savory depth without overpowering the creaminess.
• Milk: Lightens the sauce just enough without losing richness.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Divided—some mixed into the sauce and the rest melted on top for that golden, bubbly finish.
• Salt and pepper: Season to taste; these bring all the flavors together.
• Shredded cooked chicken: I use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience and flavor.
• Diced tomatoes (drained): Adds a nice tangy contrast and color in every bite.

Variations

I love making this Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Bake Recipe my own by switching up veggies or cheeses depending on the season or what’s in the fridge. Don’t be afraid to get creative—you’ll find it’s quite forgiving.

• Veggie swaps: I sometimes trade green bell peppers for sautéed mushrooms or fresh spinach, which adds a delicious earthiness or a pop of green.
• Cheese options: Adding Parmesan or sharp cheddar can give the dish a sharper flavor twist if you want more bite.
• Protein variety: Use shredded turkey or even cooked sausage if you want a different flavor profile.
• Make it spicy: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño for a subtle heat kick.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Bake Recipe

Step 1: Cook Your Pasta Perfectly

Start by boiling the spaghetti noodles until they’re just al dente following the package instructions. You don’t want them fully soft because they’ll bake further in the casserole. Drain well and set aside while you prepare the sauce—this makes sure everything combines perfectly without turning mushy.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Toss in the minced garlic and chopped green bell pepper, sautéing until the peppers soften and the garlic smells fragrant but not browned—about 3-4 minutes. This step adds a fresh and aromatic base to your creamy sauce.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Sprinkle the flour and Italian seasoning over your softened veggies and stir constantly for about a minute. This cooks out the raw flour taste and starts the thickening process. Slowly whisk in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and milk—this part requires a bit of patience, so keep stirring until it reaches a nice, thick sauce consistency. Be careful not to scorch the bottom, and simmer gently to avoid curdling.

Step 4: Combine and Season

Off the heat, stir half of your shredded mozzarella into the sauce until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste—this is the moment the flavors really come together. Then, add in the cooked spaghetti, shredded chicken, and drained diced tomatoes, folding gently to coat everything evenly in that luscious sauce.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Transfer the whole mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, then sprinkle the remaining mozzarella evenly over the top. Bake in a preheated 375°F oven for 15-20 minutes until the edges get golden and bubbly—trust me, that bubbly cheese topping is pure magic. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving so it sets up nicely.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Bake Recipe

Garnishes

I love finishing this dish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or basil for a burst of color and freshness. A grating of extra Parmesan on top just before serving amps up the richness and flavor, too.

Side Dishes

Pair this creamy bake with a crisp green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette or some garlic roasted broccoli to cut through the richness. A warm bread basket is also a winner for mopping up every last bit of sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like to bake this in individual ramekins to serve straight to guests. It makes the presentation feel extra cozy and indulgent. Another fun twist is layering in a bit of pesto or sun-dried tomatoes between pasta layers for bursts of surprise flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After cooling completely, I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for about 3 days and actually tastes even better the next day once the flavors have mellowed together.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully either baked or unbaked. My favorite trick is lining the baking dish with parchment, freezing solid, then transferring to a freezer bag for saving space. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

Reheating

To reheat, I cover the casserole with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20 minutes. Microwaving works in a pinch but baking keeps the texture intact and melts the cheese perfectly again.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Bake Recipe has become one of those recipes I turn to when I want dinner that feels indulgent but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. It’s hearty, cheesy, and hits all the right comfort food notes without any fuss. Give it a try for your next weeknight or family meal—you’ll be so glad you did. I love sharing this recipe with friends because it always impresses and comes together so easily!

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