Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Recipe

A Comforting and Easy Meal for Any Night of the Week

There’s something magical about a creamy, cheesy pasta dish that brings everyone to the table with excitement. This Creamy Chicken Spaghetti with Rotisserie Chicken is the ultimate comfort food—warm, rich, and packed with flavor. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel cozy and satisfied, perfect for a busy weeknight or a relaxing weekend dinner.

What makes this recipe extra special is how simple it is to put together. By using rotisserie chicken, you cut down on cooking time without sacrificing flavor. Instead of spending time cooking and shredding chicken, you can focus on making the creamy, cheesy sauce that coats every bite of spaghetti. Plus, this dish is budget-friendly and great for feeding a hungry family without breaking the bank.

This recipe is one of those meals that never fails to impress, yet it requires little effort. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal-prepping for the week, or even serving guests, this dish is always a hit. It’s kid-friendly, hearty, and oh-so-delicious. If you need a quick dinner solution that feels homemade and indulgent, this creamy chicken spaghetti is the answer!

About Creamy Chicken Spaghetti

Creamy Chicken Spaghetti is a comforting pasta dish made with tender rotisserie chicken, a rich and cheesy sauce, and perfectly cooked spaghetti. Unlike traditional spaghetti dishes that use marinara or meat sauce, this recipe takes a creamy, cheesy twist that feels indulgent yet simple to make.

What sets it apart from other creamy pasta dishes, like Alfredo or carbonara, is its hearty, baked texture and the blend of flavors from cheese, seasonings, and sometimes even a touch of spice. It’s not just a pasta dish—it’s a warm, satisfying casserole-like meal that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or saving leftovers for later.

Why You’ll Love It

1. Quick & Easy – Thanks to rotisserie chicken, you can skip the step of cooking and shredding chicken, making this meal come together in under 30 minutes.
2. Super Creamy & Cheesy – Every bite is packed with rich, velvety sauce that coats the spaghetti perfectly. If you love cheese, this recipe is for you!
3. Family-Friendly – Kids and adults alike will love this dish. It’s mild in flavor but still packed with deliciousness.
4. Great for Leftovers – The flavors get even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or reheating for another easy meal.
5. Budget-Friendly & Pantry-Friendly – Most of the ingredients are simple pantry staples, so you don’t have to spend a lot to make a delicious meal.

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 1 tbsp salt (for boiling water)

For the Sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (or whole milk)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp paprika (optional, for a little warmth)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)

For the Chicken & Cheese:

• 2 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

For Topping (Optional but Delicious!):

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs
• 1 tbsp melted butter

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Ingredient Notes

• Rotisserie Chicken – Using rotisserie chicken saves time, but you can also use any leftover cooked chicken you have. If you’re cooking from scratch, boiled or baked chicken breasts work great.
• Cheese Choices – Cheddar and mozzarella make a creamy, gooey combo, but you can mix in Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a little Pepper Jack for a kick.
• Cream of Mushroom vs. Cream of Chicken – Some people prefer using only one type, but the mix of both adds depth to the sauce. If you don’t like mushrooms, just double the cream of chicken soup.
• Breadcrumb Topping – The crunchy topping adds texture, but you can skip it if you prefer a smoother pasta dish.

Kitchen Tools Needed

1. Large Pot – For boiling the spaghetti. A deep pot helps prevent overflow when cooking pasta.
2. Colander – To drain the spaghetti once it’s cooked.
3. Large Skillet or Saucepan – For making the creamy sauce and mixing everything together. A non-stick skillet works best to prevent sticking.
4. Wooden Spoon or Spatula – For stirring the sauce and evenly coating the pasta.
5. 9×13-inch Baking Dish – If you want to bake it with the cheesy topping, glass or ceramic dishes work best.
6. Cheese Grater – Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded cheese from a bag!
7. Measuring Cups & Spoons – For accurate ingredient measurements, especially for liquids and seasonings.

I love using my Cast Iron Skillet for the sauce because it retains heat well and gives everything a richer flavor. Also, if you’re shredding cheese, a box grater works wonders compared to pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents that affect the melt.

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta (10 Minutes)

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes).
2. Drain the pasta and set it aside. Pro Tip: Toss the drained spaghetti with a little butter or olive oil to prevent it from sticking together.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce (10 Minutes)

3. In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Add the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir well to combine.
6. Season with Italian seasoning, paprika (if using), black pepper, and salt. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Pro Tip: Stir frequently to prevent the sauce from sticking to the pan. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of extra chicken broth or milk to loosen it.

Step 3: Combine the Chicken, Cheese & Pasta (5 Minutes)

7. Reduce the heat to low and stir in 1 ½ cups of cheddar cheese and ½ cup of mozzarella cheese, stirring until fully melted and creamy.
8. Add the shredded rotisserie chicken and cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce. This is where the magic happens! Take your time mixing so every bite gets that creamy, cheesy goodness.

Step 4: Bake for a Cheesy, Golden Finish (Optional, 15 Minutes)

9. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
10. Sprinkle the top with the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese, ½ cup of mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. If using a crunchy topping, mix the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle it over the cheese.
11. Bake uncovered for 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you like a golden, crispy top, broil for an extra 2-3 minutes at the end.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

12. Remove from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce thicken slightly and makes it easier to scoop.
13. Garnish with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of black pepper for extra flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!

Pro Tip: This dish pairs perfectly with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal!

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Since the spaghetti will bake in the sauce, cook it just until al dente (slightly firm to the bite). Overcooked pasta can become mushy in the oven.
• Freshly Grated Cheese Melts Better – Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. If possible, grate your own cheese for the creamiest texture.
• Make It Ahead – This dish is perfect for meal prep! You can assemble everything, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes in the oven if baking straight from the fridge.
• Adjust the Sauce Consistency – If the sauce seems too thick, add a little extra chicken broth or milk before baking. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer on the stove before adding the pasta.
• Spice It Up! – If you love a little heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for an extra kick.

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Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions:

• No Rotisserie Chicken? – Use leftover grilled, baked, or shredded chicken breasts instead. You can even use canned chicken in a pinch.
• No Cream of Mushroom Soup? – Double up on cream of chicken soup, or swap it with cream of celery soup for a lighter taste.
• No Heavy Cream? – Use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, or swap in evaporated milk for a creamy, budget-friendly option.
• Gluten-Free? – Use gluten-free spaghetti and swap out the breadcrumbs for crushed gluten-free crackers or omit the topping entirely.

Variations:

• Mexican-Inspired Version – Add ½ teaspoon of cumin and chili powder, use Pepper Jack cheese, and stir in some Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies) for a Tex-Mex twist.
• Veggie-Packed Version – Mix in sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to add more nutrients and color.
• Extra Cheesy – Love cheese? Double the cheese inside the sauce and sprinkle extra on top before baking for an ultra-cheesy experience!
• Low-Carb Option – Swap the spaghetti for zucchini noodles (zoodles) or spaghetti squash to keep it low-carb while still enjoying the creamy goodness.

Serving Suggestions

• Garlic Bread – A crispy, buttery slice of garlic bread pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce and helps scoop up every last bit!
• Green Salad – A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the dish. I love serving it with a simple Caesar or mixed greens with balsamic dressing.
• Steamed or Roasted Veggies – Broccoli, asparagus, or roasted brussels sprouts add a nice crunch and extra nutrients to your meal.
• Sauteed Mushrooms – If you’re a mushroom lover, sauté some in butter and garlic for an extra layer of flavor on the side.
• Crispy Bacon Bits – Sprinkle some crispy bacon pieces on top before serving for an extra savory crunch!

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Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storing Leftovers:

• Store any leftover creamy chicken spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If making ahead, you can freeze the unbaked pasta (covered tightly) for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

Reheating Tips:

• Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between until heated through.
• Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet with a splash of milk or chicken broth, stirring frequently to bring back the creamy texture.
• Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. If it looks dry, stir in a little extra broth or cream before baking.

I always add a splash of milk when reheating to bring back that rich, creamy consistency. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll sprinkle some extra cheese on top before warming it up—it makes it taste freshly baked again!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this without baking it?

Yes! If you prefer a stovetop-only version, simply mix everything in the skillet until the cheese is melted and the pasta is coated in sauce. You’ll still get all the creamy, cheesy goodness—just skip the oven!

What can I use instead of rotisserie chicken?

Any cooked, shredded chicken works! Try using leftover grilled chicken, baked chicken breasts, or even canned chicken in a pinch. Just make sure it’s well-seasoned for the best flavor.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. If baking straight from the fridge, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it’s heated through.

How do I make this spicier?

If you like a little heat, try adding red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce. You can also swap out some of the cheese for Pepper Jack to give it a kick!

Can I freeze creamy chicken spaghetti?

Yes! Freeze it before baking by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as directed. For best texture, avoid freezing after baking—cream-based sauces can sometimes separate when reheated.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

The stovetop method is the best! Just heat it on low with a splash of milk or chicken broth, stirring frequently to bring back the creamy texture. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between.

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I’d love to hear how this turns out for you! Let me know in the comments—do you like your creamy chicken spaghetti extra cheesy or with a little spice? If you try any fun variations, share your tips! Happy cooking!

Don’t forget to share your photos on Instagram and tag me (@tasiahub_) or use the hashtag (#tasiahub). I’d love to see your creations!