The Million Dollar Chicken Spaghetti Recipe is an absolute crowd-pleaser that brings together creamy textures, cheesy goodness, and tender chicken all baked together into one irresistible casserole. Imagine twirling perfectly cooked spaghetti coated in a luscious blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and savory chicken soup, punctuated by zesty Rotel tomatoes and melted cheeses that elevate this dish to a million-dollar level. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a potluck centerpiece, this recipe serves up comfort and flavor in every bite, making it an instant favorite in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this recipe right is all about a handful of simple yet incredibly essential ingredients, each playing its own starring role to build flavor, creaminess, and delightful texture. You’ll find that every item contributes something unique, from the creamy bases to the cheeses and spices that make this dish sing.
- Spaghetti (12 ounces): Use regular spaghetti cooked al dente to provide the perfect base that holds all the creamy sauce without getting mushy.
- Cooked shredded chicken (2 cups): Leftover rotisserie chicken works wonderfully here for tender, flavorful protein.
- Cream cheese, softened (8 ounces): This creates the rich and velvety backbone of the sauce that coats every strand of pasta beautifully.
- Sour cream (1 cup): Adds tanginess and depth, balancing the richness with a slight zest.
- Cream of chicken soup (10.5 ounces): Brings savory creaminess and helps bind everything together effortlessly.
- Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained (10 ounces): Gives the dish a subtle kick and freshness without overpowering the creamy sauce.
- Cheddar cheese, shredded (2 cups, divided): Use sharp cheddar to melt into gooey pockets of flavor, with half mixed inside and half sprinkled on top.
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded (1 cup): Offers stretchy, melty texture that creates an irresistible cheesy crust on the casserole.
- Parmesan cheese, grated (1/2 cup): Adds a nutty, salty finish that perfectly complements the other cheeses.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): A subtle layer of savory flavor that enhances all the creamy goodness.
- Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a gentle sweetness and depth without any bulk.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors together harmoniously.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (2 tablespoons, optional): A fresh, colorful garnish that brightens every serving.
How to Make Million Dollar Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish and Pasta
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish so the casserole doesn’t stick. Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti according to the package directions until it reaches that perfect al dente texture. Drain and set the noodles aside, allowing you to focus on mixing the luxurious sauce.
Step 2: Combine the Creamy Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, soften that cream cheese first to avoid lumps, then stir in sour cream, cream of chicken soup, and the drained Rotel tomatoes along with their green chilies. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper; whisk everything together until silky smooth and evenly blended.
Step 3: Add Chicken and Cheese
Fold the tender cooked shredded chicken and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into your creamy mixture. This not only distributes protein but also starts layering cheesy richness that will make your casserole unforgettable.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Gently toss the cooked spaghetti into the cream cheese mixture. Make sure every strand gets a generous coating of the sauce, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that promises comfort in every bite.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Transfer your creamy chicken spaghetti mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly on top, followed by the mozzarella and grated Parmesan for a beautifully layered cheesy crust. Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, until the casserole is bubbling hot and the cheese on top is perfectly melted and lightly golden.
Step 6: Let it Rest and Garnish
Allow the casserole to cool for about 5 minutes before serving; this step helps the flavors settle and makes for easier slicing. If you’re feeling fancy or want a pop of color and freshness, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley over the top—it adds a lovely vibrant touch.
How to Serve Million Dollar Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
While fresh parsley is a classic garnish for its mild herbaceous touch and pretty green hue, you can also consider a light sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat or a handful of toasted breadcrumbs for crunch. These finishes bring an extra dimension to each serving.
Side Dishes
This creamy chicken spaghetti pairs beautifully with crisp green salads dressed in vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli also complement the dish, providing texture contrast and a wholesome balance to the cheesy casserole.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, serve this dish in individual ramekins or mini casserole dishes for a charming presentation. Alternatively, garnish each serving with a lemon wedge to brighten flavors or a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess. Presentation can elevate this homey meal into an elegant delight.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, simply cover the casserole tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it perfect for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
You can freeze the entire assembled casserole before baking. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as instructed. This makes the Million Dollar Chicken Spaghetti Recipe excellent for meal prepping or batch cooking.
Reheating
To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave until heated through or place the whole casserole in a 350°F oven, covered with foil, until hot and bubbly. Adding a sprinkle of extra cheese on top when reheating can restore the melty cheesiness perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional here, you can swap in penne, rotini, or even egg noodles. Just make sure to cook the pasta al dente to avoid a mushy casserole.
Is leftover chicken necessary or can I use raw chicken?
Leftover cooked chicken is best as it saves time and ensures the meat is tender. If using raw chicken, cook and shred it fully before adding to the casserole mix.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Substituting dairy-free cream cheese, sour cream, and cheese alternatives can work, but it will change the flavor and texture slightly. Look for products designed for melting and creaminess to get closer to the original experience.
How spicy is this dish with Rotel tomatoes?
Rotel adds a gentle, mild heat thanks to the green chilies, but the creaminess balances it out well. If you prefer less heat, choose mild diced tomatoes or drain the chilies more thoroughly.
Can I add other ingredients for extra flavor?
For sure! Some people love adding cooked bacon bits or a dash of hot sauce to elevate the savory and spicy notes. You can also sprinkle extra herbs like thyme or oregano if you want more depth.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dish that comforts and delights with every cheesy, creamy bite, the Million Dollar Chicken Spaghetti Recipe is your new go-to. It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for sharing with friends. Give it a try, and I promise this creamy, cheesy casserole will become a beloved staple that you’ll want to make again and again.
Print
Million Dollar Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Million Dollar Chicken Spaghetti is a creamy, cheesy baked pasta casserole featuring tender shredded chicken, spaghetti, and a rich blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and cheddar. This comforting American classic is easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Pastas and Proteins
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
Dairy and Cheeses
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Pantry and Seasonings
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10 ounces) Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies (drained)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare baking dish and pasta. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Mix creamy sauce base. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, drained Rotel tomatoes, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
- Add chicken and cheese. Fold the cooked shredded chicken and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese into the creamy mixture, mixing thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Combine pasta and sauce. Add the drained spaghetti to the bowl and toss gently to coat the pasta completely with the creamy chicken mixture.
- Assemble dish. Transfer the spaghetti mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
- Top with cheeses. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the assembled spaghetti.
- Bake. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through, bubbly, and the cheese on top is melted and slightly golden.
- Serve. Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for 5 minutes to set. Optionally, garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- This recipe makes excellent use of leftover rotisserie or cooked chicken.
- For convenience, prepare the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate before baking.
- Enhance flavor by adding a dash of hot sauce or mixing in chopped cooked bacon.
