Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Bake

Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Bake: A Family-Favorite Comfort Dish

 Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Bake is a delightful comfort food dish that combines tender chicken, al dente spaghetti, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, all baked to golden perfection. It’s a family-favorite recipe that’s perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or simply when you crave a satisfying and indulgent meal. Let’s dive into making this comforting classic.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken and Spaghetti:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
• 8 ounces spaghetti
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
• 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

Cook the Spaghetti:

1. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables: 2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.

3. Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté until they become tender and slightly caramelized.
4. Add the cooked chicken to the skillet and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine and cook for a few more minutes until everything is heated through. Remove from heat.

Prepare the Creamy Sauce: 5. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter.

6. Add the all-purpose flour and whisk constantly to create a roux. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until the roux turns a light golden color.
7. Slowly pour in the chicken broth and milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Continue to cook and whisk until the mixture thickens and comes to a gentle boil.
8. Stir in the dried thyme, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for a couple of minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Assemble and Bake: 9. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

10. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and the chicken and vegetable mixture. Toss everything together until well combined.
11. Pour the creamy sauce over the spaghetti and chicken mixture. Stir to coat everything evenly.
12. Transfer the mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it out evenly.
13. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.

Serve and Enjoy: 14. Remove the Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Bake from the oven and let it cool slightly.

15. Serve portions on plates, garnishing with extra grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley, if desired.

Cook’s Notes:

• Feel free to customize this recipe by adding vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli for extra flavor and nutrition.
• You can use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time.
• Adjust the level of spiciness by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you like a bit of heat.
• This dish reheats well, making it a convenient option for leftovers.

  Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Bake is a comforting and cheesy delight that brings together tender chicken, al dente spaghetti, and a creamy sauce. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed for family dinners or special gatherings. Follow this recipe, create your own Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Bake, and savor the creamy, cheesy goodness in every bite.