What ingredients do I need to make cheesy chicken spaghetti?

To make cheesy chicken spaghetti, you will need cooked spaghetti noodles, shredded cooked chicken (such as breasts or rotisserie chicken), Velveeta cheese, cream cheese, cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup, Rotel tomatoes with juice, and seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Some recipes also include sautéed onions, bell peppers, or other vegetables for added flavor.

Can I prepare cheesy chicken spaghetti ahead of time and freeze it?

Yes, cheesy chicken spaghetti can be prepared ahead and frozen. Assemble the casserole without baking, wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap, and freeze. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then bake as directed. Avoid placing a cold dish directly into a hot oven to prevent cracking.

How do I cook the spaghetti noodles for chicken spaghetti to avoid them becoming too soft?

Cook spaghetti noodles just until al dente or slightly firmer according to package instructions. Since the noodles continue to cook during baking, slightly undercooked pasta helps maintain texture and prevents mushiness in the casserole.

What can I substitute if I don’t have Velveeta cheese for this recipe?

Velveeta cheese gives the dish its creamy, smooth texture and melts uniquely, so exact substitutes are limited. Some people try processed cheese slices or a combination of cheddar and cream cheese, but results vary. For a different flavor, using a creamy cheese sauce or nacho cheese sauce can work but expect a texture change.

Is it possible to make cheesy chicken spaghetti gluten-free or dairy-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free spaghetti and confirm that your soup (cream of mushroom or chicken) and canned tomatoes are gluten-free. Making it dairy-free is more challenging due to Velveeta and cream cheese, as no commonly recommended direct replacements provide the same creamy texture; however, dairy-free cream cheese and cheese alternatives can be experimented with, though flavor and consistency will differ.

Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Recipe With Creamy Sauce 2024

Name: Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti
Prep time: 35 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: – 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts; – 1 (16-ounce) package spaghetti; – 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (do not drain); – 2 (10.5-ounce) cans cream of mushroom soup (cream of chicken soup can be substituted); – 1 (16-ounce) package processed cheese in block form; – 4 ounces cream cheese; – 1 teaspoon garlic powder; – 1 teaspoon onion powder; – 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Ingredients

– 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts

– 1 (16-ounce) package spaghetti

– 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (do not drain)

– 2 (10.5-ounce) cans cream of mushroom soup (cream of chicken soup can be substituted)

– 1 (16-ounce) package processed cheese in block form

– 4 ounces cream cheese

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1 teaspoon onion powder

– 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1-First off, cook the chicken: Place the 2 pounds of boneless skinless chicken breasts in a large pot, cover with water, and cook over medium-low heat until they’re done through keep it gentle to avoid making it tough. Let it cool, then shred it with forks for that tender bite.

2-Next, get your oven ready: Preheat to 350°F and lightly grease a 13×9-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. While that’s heating, cook the 1 (16-ounce) package of spaghetti to al dente or just a bit under, as per the package, then drain and set it aside.

3-Now for the fun part: In a large pot, mix the 1 (10-ounce) can of undrained diced tomatoes with green chilies, the 2 (10.5-ounce) cans of undiluted cream of mushroom soup, the 1 (16-ounce) package of processed cheese in block form, and the 4 ounces of cream cheese. Heat this over low, stirring constantly until the cheeses melt smoothly. Toss in the 1 teaspoon garlic powder and 1 teaspoon onion powder for that extra flavor kick.

4-Stir in the shredded chicken and the cooked spaghetti, making sure everything’s coated nicely. Pour it all into your prepared baking dish and top with the 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Pop it in the oven and bake for 20 to 30 minutes until it’s heated through and the cheese is melted just right.

Last Step:

Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.

Notes

🍗 Use leftover cooked chicken, thighs, or rotisserie chicken as alternatives to chicken breasts.
🍝 Cook pasta al dente or slightly underdone to avoid overcooking during baking.
🧀 Cream cheese and processed block cheese are key for a creamy, melty sauce—avoid substitutes for best texture.

Author: Brandi Oshea
Prep Time: 35 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Boiling, Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 416
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 1699mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0.01g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 43g
Cholesterol: 129mg