If you have a craving for a comforting, cheesy, and flavorful casserole that feels like a warm hug in every bite, the Million Dollar Chicken Spaghetti Recipe is going to become your new go-to dinner. This dish combines tender shredded chicken, perfectly cooked spaghetti, and a luscious cream cheese and sour cream base, all baked to bubbly, golden perfection. It’s the ideal blend of creamy, savory, and cheesy goodness that will impress your family and guests while being surprisingly simple to pull together.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for the Million Dollar Chicken Spaghetti Recipe is a breeze since each one is straightforward yet essential. These components come together to deliver a rich and balanced texture, vibrant flavor, and inviting color that make this baked pasta dish truly irresistible.
- 12 ounces spaghetti: Cooked al dente for the perfect bite and to hold the creamy sauce beautifully.
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken: Adds hearty protein and a tender, juicy texture; rotisserie chicken works wonderfully here.
- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese (softened): Creates the creamy, indulgent base that makes every bite melt in your mouth.
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds tanginess and smoothness, balancing the richness of the cream cheese.
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup: Boosts the savory depth and helps bind everything together.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided): For gooey, melty cheesiness and that golden top layer everyone loves.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Lends a subtle sharpness and beautiful crust when baked.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances aroma and adds a gentle savory kick.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Deepens flavor complexity without overpowering the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances all the flavors perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just a hint of warmth.
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings a subtle herbaceous note that ties everything together.
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley (optional): A fresh pop of color and mild herb flavor as a garnish.
- Nonstick cooking spray: Ensures your casserole releases effortlessly after baking.
How to Make Million Dollar Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Pasta
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish using nonstick cooking spray. Then, cook the spaghetti according to package directions until it’s perfectly al dente. Draining it well is key so that your casserole doesn’t become soggy. Set the spaghetti aside while you prepare the creamy filling.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir the mixture until it’s completely smooth and velvety without any lumps. This mixture is the secret behind that rich and dreamy texture in the final dish.
Step 3: Add Chicken and Cheese
Fold in the cooked, shredded chicken and half of the shredded cheddar cheese into the creamy base. Mixing these together ensures that every bite throughout the casserole delivers moist, cheesy, and protein-packed goodness.
Step 4: Combine Pasta with the Mixture
Gently fold the cooked spaghetti into the creamy chicken mixture until the pasta is evenly coated. This step is what transforms simple ingredients into a cohesive, cheesy masterpiece that bakes into golden, bubbly perfection.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Transfer your combined mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese on top to create that irresistible crust. Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the cheese is beautifully melted and golden brown around the edges.
How to Serve Million Dollar Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
To add a fresh and inviting look, sprinkle chopped parsley over the top after baking. The vibrant green not only adds a pop of color but also introduces a mild herbal freshness that brightens up the creamy richness of the casserole.
Side Dishes
This hearty dish pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads or steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans to balance out the richness. Simple crusty bread or garlic breadsticks are fantastic options to scoop up any cheesy sauce left on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve this Million Dollar Chicken Spaghetti Recipe in individual ramekins for personalized portions that look elegant and inviting. You can also layer it into a casserole dish in a decorative pattern or add a topping of toasted breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan for an extra crunchy dimension.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover chicken spaghetti in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. This makes for an easy next-day meal that reheats nicely without losing any of its creamy texture or flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze this baked pasta by letting it cool completely, then wrapping it tightly or placing it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for 15 to 20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out, or microwave individual servings until warmed through. Adding a splash of milk or cream while reheating can help restore creaminess if needed.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a convenient shortcut that saves time without compromising flavor or texture.
Is this dish spicy?
The classic Million Dollar Chicken Spaghetti Recipe is mild, but you can easily add diced green chilies or red pepper flakes for some heat if you like.
Can I substitute the cream of chicken soup?
Yes, you can substitute with cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup if preferred, but the classic chicken flavor adds a nice depth to this dish.
What kind of cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar provides great tang and meltability, while Parmesan adds savory depth. Feel free to experiment with Colby or Monterey Jack for a different twist.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Very much so! The creamy, cheesy, and mild flavors make it a hit with kids, plus it’s a sneaky way to add some protein and a bit of veggies if you mix them in.
Final Thoughts
Once you try the Million Dollar Chicken Spaghetti Recipe, you’ll see why it’s loved in so many kitchens. It’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that combines simplicity with indulgence, making every meal feel a little more special. Go ahead and give it a whirl — your family and friends will be asking for seconds in no time!
Print
Million Dollar Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
Million Dollar Chicken Spaghetti is a creamy, cheesy baked pasta dish that combines tender shredded chicken, spaghetti, and a rich blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and cheddar. This comforting casserole is perfect for a family dinner, offering a delightful mix of flavors and textures baked to bubbly perfection.
Ingredients
Chicken Spaghetti Mix
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Cheese Toppings
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley (optional)
Other
- Nonstick cooking spray
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and baking dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook the spaghetti: Boil the spaghetti according to the package directions until al dente. Once cooked, drain well and set aside.
- Mix the creamy sauce: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and uniform in texture.
- Add chicken and cheese: Mix in the shredded chicken and half of the shredded cheddar cheese to the creamy mixture, stirring thoroughly to incorporate all ingredients.
- Combine with spaghetti: Fold the cooked spaghetti into the creamy chicken mixture, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Assemble in baking dish: Transfer the entire mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out to fill the pan.
- Add cheese topping: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the cheese topping is melted and slightly golden.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from oven and optionally garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Serve warm, dividing into 8 portions.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken as a time-saving option for the shredded chicken.
- For extra richness and creaminess, stir in a few tablespoons of butter or a splash of heavy cream into the sauce.
- Add diced green chilies or red pepper flakes to the creamy mixture if you prefer a bit of heat.
