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Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti

Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti

Craving comfort food? Look no further than Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti. This creamy and cheesy dish, featuring tender chicken and zesty tomatoes, is perfect for a cozy night in or a fun family gathering. Don't miss out on making this easy weeknight dinner tonight!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 410
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 16 ounces spaghetti cooked and drained
  • 5 cups chopped cooked chicken leftovers or rotisserie
  • 30 ounces Rotel tomatoes and chiles (3 cans)
  • 8 ounces cream cheese softened
  • 8 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 bunch scallions chopped
  • 1 tablespoon chicken base or 3 bouillon cubes
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¾ cup crushed Ritz crackers optional

Equipment

  • Wooden Spoon
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Oven
  • Chef's Knife
  • Baking Sheet

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This step is crucial as it ensures your casserole cooks evenly and gets that golden topping.
  2. Prepare your baking dish by setting out a 9X13 inch baking dish. Greasing it lightly can help with easy serving later.
  3. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. This will give it the perfect texture to hold the sauce. Once cooked, drain and return it to the pot.
  4. Chop your cooked chicken and scallions. Add them into the pot with the spaghetti. The warmth of the pasta will help meld the ingredients together.
  5. In a microwave-safe bowl, add the cream cheese. Microwave it for 1 to 2 minutes to soften it, making it easier to mix with the other ingredients.
  6. Add the Rotel, chicken base, and garlic powder to the softened cream cheese. Mix well until it forms a smooth sauce.
  7. Pour this creamy sauce over the spaghetti mixture in the pot, ensuring it coats everything evenly. Then, add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir gently to combine.
  8. Taste the mixture, and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. This is your chance to personalize the flavors!
  9. Transfer the entire pasta mixture into the baking dish. Spread it out evenly to ensure even cooking.
  10. Sprinkle the top with crushed Ritz crackers for a crunchy finish. This step adds texture and a nice contrast to the creamy filling.
  11. Bake for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling. The aroma will fill your kitchen and make your mouth water!
  12. Cut into squares and serve warm. Enjoy the comforting flavors of your homemade Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti.

Notes

Storage: Transfer cooled leftovers to a sealed container and keep them in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: The entire casserole freezes well! Prepare in a freezer-safe dish; then wrap in plastic wrap and a layer of aluminum foil. Keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat leftovers either in the microwave or in a preheated oven for the best texture. If frozen, remove the foil and plastic wrap before re-covering with fresh foil and baking at 350 degrees for 30 to 45 minutes.
Variations: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
Garnishing: Top with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro before serving for an extra pop of color and flavor.