If you are looking for a comfort food masterpiece that brings creamy indulgence and a fiesta of flavors together, this Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Bake Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious sauce with just the right kick of taco seasoning, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s a family dinner or a friendly gathering, this bake offers both simplicity and heartwarming satisfaction in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this creamy chicken spaghetti bake lies in its straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together effortlessly. Each component plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, creaminess, and that irresistible cheesy goodness that makes this dish unforgettable.
- 12 oz angel hair pasta: Delicately thin and quick-cooking, it soaks up the creamy sauce perfectly without becoming mushy.
- 2 cups cubed, cooked chicken: Adds hearty protein and tender texture, making the dish satisfying and nutritious.
- 2 (10 oz) cans cream of chicken soup: The creamy base that creates moisture and richness in the casserole.
- 1 cup salsa: Brings a lively, tangy flavor that balances the creaminess with subtle spice.
- ¾ cup Mexican crema or sour cream: Adds luscious creaminess and smooth texture, enhancing flavor depth.
- ¼ cup chicken broth: Lightens the sauce slightly while adding savory notes for a perfect balance.
- 2 cups Mexican cheese blend, divided: A combination of cheeses that melts into gooey, irresistible layers.
- 1 ½ tbsp taco seasoning: Introduces the festive, warm spices that give the dish its character and zing.
- Freshly ground pepper to taste: Brings a subtle bite to round out the flavors.
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, plus more for garnish: Adds a bright, fresh herbal note and a pop of color to the finished bake.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Bake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Cook Pasta
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking. Meanwhile, cook your angel hair pasta according to the package directions until al dente—firm yet tender. Once done, drain thoroughly to avoid excess water that could make the bake soggy, and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare Sauce Mixture
Using the same pot that held the pasta, combine the cream of chicken soup cans, salsa, Mexican crema (or sour cream), chicken broth, one cup of shredded Mexican cheese, taco seasoning, freshly ground pepper to your liking, and a tablespoon of fresh parsley. Stir this mixture until it becomes a smooth, creamy sauce that’s bursting with flavor.
Step 3: Add Chicken and Pasta
Now it’s time to bring everything together. Gently add the cooked chicken and the drained pasta right into that creamy sauce. Toss in another cup of your shredded cheese and mix gently but thoroughly to coat every strand of pasta and piece of chicken with the rich, cheesy goodness.
Step 4: Assemble in Casserole Dish
Transfer your combined creation into a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish, spreading it out evenly so every bite is just as satisfying as the last. Sprinkle the remaining cup of shredded cheese on top to create a glorious cheesy crust once baked.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and pop it into your preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes, giving the cheese time to melt into golden, gooey perfection and the flavors to meld together in harmony.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
After baking, take off the foil and let your creamy chicken spaghetti bake rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle with extra fresh parsley for a bright, inviting garnish. Serve it warm and watch how everyone dives in happily.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Bake Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro adds a refreshing burst of color and a subtle herbaceous note that brightens the richness of the dish. For a little extra flair, you can also add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or some diced green onions.
Side Dishes
This creamy chicken spaghetti bake pairs beautifully with crisp, fresh salads like a simple mixed greens salad dressed lightly with lime vinaigrette or a crunchy coleslaw. Roasted or steamed veggies such as broccoli or green beans also bring balance by adding vibrant textures and nutrients.
Creative Ways to Present
For an eye-catching presentation, serve the bake in individual ramekins or mini casserole dishes, topped with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkling of chopped tomatoes. You can also offer it as a potluck centerpiece in a rustic cast iron skillet for that charming, cozy vibe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen as they rest, making for a delicious next-day meal.
Freezing
This bake freezes really well. To freeze, assemble the dish but do not bake it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and bubbly. You can also microwave single portions covered loosely, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating and that creamy texture is maintained.
FAQs
Can I use shredded chicken instead of cubed chicken?
Absolutely! Shredded chicken works wonderfully and will blend seamlessly with the creamy sauce, giving your bake a slightly different but equally delicious texture.
What can I substitute for Mexican crema?
If you don’t have Mexican crema on hand, sour cream or Greek yogurt are fantastic alternatives. They add that creamy tanginess essential for this dish without overpowering the flavors.
Is it okay to use a different type of pasta?
Yes! While angel hair is recommended for its delicate texture, you can use spaghetti, linguine, or even fettuccine. Just be mindful to adjust cooking times so the pasta remains al dente before baking.
How spicy is the taco seasoning in this recipe?
The taco seasoning provides a mild to moderate warmth that complements the creamy sauce. Feel free to adjust the amount according to your spice preference or use a mild blend if you prefer less heat.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
You can! Simply replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms, roasted vegetables, or a plant-based protein, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian twist.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Bake Recipe is a warm hug on a plate, perfect for sharing with loved ones or treating yourself to a satisfying, flavor-packed meal. Its effortless preparation paired with comforting cheesy creaminess makes it a true favorite in my kitchen. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own go-to dinner when you want something special but easy.
Print
Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Description
This creamy chicken spaghetti bake combines tender cooked chicken, angel hair pasta, and a rich, cheesy sauce enhanced with Mexican crema and salsa. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner, this casserole is baked until bubbly and topped with a melted Mexican cheese blend, offering a deliciously satisfying meal for the whole family.
Ingredients
Pasta and Chicken
- 12 oz angel hair pasta, or any long pasta
- 2 cups cubed, cooked chicken
Sauce and Seasonings
- 2 (10 oz) cans cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup salsa
- ¾ cup Mexican crema or sour cream
- ¼ cup chicken broth
- 1 ½ tbsp taco seasoning
- Freshly ground pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, plus more for garnish
Cheese
- 2 cups Mexican cheese blend, divided
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Cook Pasta: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the angel hair pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Prepare Sauce Mixture: In the same pot used for cooking pasta, combine the cream of chicken soups, salsa, Mexican crema or sour cream, chicken broth, 1 cup of shredded Mexican cheese blend, taco seasoning, freshly ground pepper, and 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley. Stir well to create a creamy sauce base.
- Add Chicken and Pasta: Add the cooked chicken and drained pasta to the sauce mixture. Mix in 1 cup of shredded cheese. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated and combined.
- Assemble in Casserole Dish: Transfer the combined mixture into a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish. Spread evenly and top with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese.
- Bake the Casserole: Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the dish is heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, garnish with additional fresh parsley, and serve warm.
Notes
- Use any long pasta if angel hair is unavailable, but cooking times may vary slightly.
- Mexican crema adds a rich, tangy flavor but sour cream is a good substitute.
- Make sure the chicken is fully cooked before adding; leftover rotisserie chicken works well.
- For extra spice, add diced jalapeños or use spicy salsa.
- This recipe can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking; increase baking time by 5-10 minutes if cold from fridge.
