Description
A creamy, cheesy chicken spaghetti casserole that is quick and easy to make, perfect for cozy dinners and potlucks. This comforting dish combines tender chicken, al dente spaghetti, and a silky cheese sauce for a nostalgic, soul-soothing meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces spaghetti, cooked al dente
- 3 cups shredded cooked chicken (about 12 ounces)
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup small-curd cottage cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup low sodium chicken broth
- ½ cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole or 2% milk
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 8-9 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Sprinkle flour over the onions and garlic. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste without browning.
- Slowly whisk in chicken broth and milk. Keep whisking to avoid lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook until thickened, about 3-5 minutes, until it coats the back of a spoon.
- Lower heat and stir in softened cream cheese until melted and smooth. Add cottage cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is melted and creamy.
- Add Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir well.
- Fold in shredded cooked chicken and drained spaghetti. Mix gently but thoroughly to coat everything with the creamy sauce.
- Pour mixture into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish. Spread evenly and sprinkle extra cheddar on top if desired.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and lightly browned on top.
- Let casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken.
Notes
If sauce is too thick before baking, add a splash more broth or milk. If too thin, sprinkle extra cheese before baking. Do not overcook pasta as it will continue cooking in the oven. Soften cream cheese before adding to avoid lumps. Rest casserole before serving for easier slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole
- Calories: 475
- Sugar: 5
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 20
- Saturated Fat: 12
- Carbohydrates: 40
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 35
Keywords: chicken casserole, creamy chicken spaghetti, comfort food, easy dinner, cheesy casserole, family meal, potluck recipe