If you are on the hunt for a comforting, ultra-satisfying dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Bake Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s the perfect combination of tender chicken, rich cheesy sauce, tangy diced tomatoes with a subtle kick from green chilies, all tangled lovingly with thin spaghetti and baked to bubbly, golden perfection. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or craving a cozy meal to savor solo, this bake brings effortless elegance and homestyle goodness to your table every single time.

Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Bake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind this Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Bake Recipe lies in its simple but essential ingredients that each play a starring role—bringing layers of flavor, creaminess, and texture that make every bite unforgettable.

2 small boneless skinless chicken breasts: Provides tender, protein-packed chunks that soak up the creamy sauce beautifully.

2 teaspoons Italian Seasoning: Adds a fragrant blend of herbs to elevate the chicken and overall dish.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning to enhance all the other flavors.
2 Tablespoons olive oil: Perfect for browning the chicken with a subtle fruity note.

4 Tablespoons butter: Creates the rich base of the silky sauce.
1 small yellow onion, diced: Softens and sweetens the sauce with aromatic depth.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a pungent, savory kick to brighten the creamy sauce.

4 Tablespoons flour: Thickens the sauce to perfect lusciousness.
1 ½ cups chicken broth: Introduces savory umami and moisture to the creamy mixture.
¾ cup milk: Lightens the sauce just enough while keeping it dreamy and smooth.
4 oz. cream cheese, softened: Gives that iconic luscious creaminess and tang.

1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded: Brings sharpness and cheesy goodness into the sauce.
10 oz. diced tomatoes & green chilies: Packs moist, zesty warmth and a hint of freshness.
8 oz. thin spaghetti: The star noodle, perfectly delicate to cling to all of the sauce’s richness.

1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: Melts on top to create a golden, bubbly crust.
Red pepper flakes & chopped parsley, to garnish: Adds a pop of heat and a fresh, herbaceous finish.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Bake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with Italian seasoning plus a little salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden and cooked through, which usually takes around 6-7 minutes on each side depending on thickness. If you prefer, you can use pre-cooked chicken to save time. Once cooked, let the chicken rest briefly before dicing it into bite-sized pieces that will blend beautifully into the sauce later.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté the diced onion until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until aromatic. Sprinkle the flour over and whisk constantly to cook out the raw taste, forming a roux. Gradually add the chicken broth and milk, whisking continuously to keep the sauce smooth and silky. Stir in the softened cream cheese until melted and creamy, then fold in the shredded cheddar cheese for that perfect cheesy tang. Finally, add the diced tomatoes with green chilies and the cooked chicken, letting everything meld into a flavorful, dreamy sauce.

Step 3: Combine with Spaghetti and Transfer

Cook the thin spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, drain it well, and mix it directly into the warm sauce, ensuring every strand is coated generously. If your skillet isn’t oven-safe or large enough, transfer this mixture into a casserole dish. This step is crucial to make sure the bake has the perfect texture and flavor harmony before hitting the oven.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Scatter shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the spaghetti and sauce, then pop your dish into the oven, baking uncovered for about 15 minutes. To achieve that stunning golden top, switch the oven to broil for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully so it browns beautifully without burning. This baking step transforms the dish, bringing bubbling cheese and a delightful crust that everyone will fight over.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Bake Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a lovely, subtle heat that contrasts the creamy richness splendidly, while freshly chopped parsley offers a burst of color and a fresh, slightly peppery finish. These simple garnishes not only elevate the look but also add layered flavors with every bite.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with classic garlic bread, which is perfect for sopping up the extra sauce. A crisp green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette also complements the richness by adding a refreshing crunch and tartness, balancing this meal beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to get fancy, serve this creamy bake in individual ramekins for a personal touch at dinner parties. You can also add a handful of roasted veggies or sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs mixed with herbs on top before baking for an irresistible crunchy topping that adds real textural contrast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Bake Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen over time, making those next-day meals just as good, if not better. Be sure to cool the bake completely before refrigerating to maintain the best texture.

Freezing

This bake freezes beautifully! After baking, allow it to cool completely, then cover tightly with foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best taste and texture.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers covered in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions covered to retain moisture, stirring halfway to heat evenly. Adding a little splash of milk or broth before reheating helps revive the creamy texture perfectly.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken in this recipe?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that saves time and adds extra flavor. Just shred or chop it before mixing into the sauce, and you’re good to go.

Is this recipe spicy?

The creaminess balances out the mild heat from the diced tomatoes and green chilies. If you like more heat, you can easily add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to suit your taste.

Can I substitute different cheeses?

Yes! While cheddar and mozzarella give classic flavor and texture, you can experiment with Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a bit of Parmesan to customize the flavor profile.

What type of pasta works best?

Thin spaghetti works perfectly as it holds the creamy sauce well without being too heavy. However, you can also use linguine, angel hair, or even small pasta shapes like penne if preferred.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

You can swap regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend for the roux and use gluten-free pasta to make the entire bake gluten-friendly without sacrificing flavor or creaminess.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Bake Recipe is truly one of those dishes that turns an ordinary day into a special occasion with comfort and flair. The combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and cheesy baked goodness is a winning formula that will quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!

Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Bake Recipe