The Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Spinach Spaghetti Bake Recipe

Cheesy chicken spinach spaghetti bake brings comfort and excitement to your dinner table with its irresistible blend of flavors.

Hearty pasta intertwines with tender protein and vibrant greens, creating a one-dish marvel that satisfies multiple cravings simultaneously.

Mediterranean-inspired ingredients dance together in a harmonious culinary symphony, promising a meal that feels both familiar and innovative.

Creamy textures and rich seasonings elevate this classic combination beyond ordinary weeknight fare.

Weeknight cooking elevates into a delightful experience when you can craft something so deliciously substantial with minimal effort.

Families and friends will gather around this dish, drawn by its enticing aroma and mouth-watering appearance.

Nutritious components merge seamlessly, ensuring a balanced meal that doesn’t compromise on taste or satisfaction.

Ingredients for Cheesy Chicken Spinach Spaghetti Bake

• Chicken: Tender protein that adds richness and heartiness to the casserole, best when pre-cooked and shredded or diced.
• Cream of Chicken Soup: Creamy base that provides smooth texture and enhances chicken flavor.

• Spaghetti: Classic pasta that serves as the main carbohydrate, cook until al dente for perfect texture.
• Spinach: Nutritious green vegetable that adds color and provides healthy nutrients, use well-drained frozen spinach.

• Monterey Jack Cheese: Mild, melty cheese that creates a creamy, gooey topping and adds richness, shred fresh for best results.
• Sour Cream: Adds tangy flavor and contributes to the creamy consistency of the dish.

• Garlic: Aromatic ingredient that enhances overall flavor profile, use fresh minced for best taste.
• French Fried Onions: Crunchy topping that provides a crispy texture and golden brown finish.

• Cooking Spray: Prevents sticking and helps with easy dish removal.

Making Cheesy Chicken Spinach Spaghetti Bake

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Crank your oven to a toasty 350°F. Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a quick spray with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil the spaghetti according to package directions until it reaches that perfect al dente texture. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside, ready for its cheesy adventure.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Mixture

• Cooked chicken
• Cream of chicken soup
• Sour cream
• Drained spinach
• Monterey Jack cheese
• Minced garlic
• Half of the French Fried Onions

Mix these ingredients until they become a delicious, creamy blend.

Step 4: Combine Pasta with Mixture

Toss the drained spaghetti into the chicken mixture. Stir thoroughly, making sure every strand of pasta gets coated with the creamy goodness.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Transfer the spaghetti and chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining Monterey Jack cheese on top, then scatter the rest of the French Fried Onions for that perfect crunch. Slide the dish into the oven and bake uncovered for 40 to 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the onions turn a beautiful golden brown.

Serve hot and enjoy your comfort food masterpiece!

Tips for Cheesy Chicken Spinach Spaghetti Bake

• Prep Pasta Perfectly: Cook spaghetti just until al dente to prevent mushy texture and maintain a satisfying bite in the final dish.
• Drain Spinach Thoroughly: Squeeze out excess moisture from spinach to keep the casserole from becoming watery and losing its creamy consistency.
• Layer Cheese Strategically: Sprinkle cheese in layers for even melting and a gooey, golden-brown top that adds irresistible texture and flavor.
• Choose Quality Chicken: Use leftover roasted or rotisserie chicken for extra depth of flavor and to save time during preparation.
• Crisp Onion Topping: Watch the French Fried Onions closely during the last few minutes of baking to achieve a perfect golden-brown crunch without burning.

Storing and Reheating Cheesy Chicken Spinach Spaghetti Bake

• Refrigeration: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Properly sealed, the dish will keep fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to a sealed container to prevent moisture loss.
• Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. For optimal texture, reheat the entire casserole in a preheated 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out. Sprinkle extra cheese on top for a fresh, crispy finish.
• Freezing: Freeze cooled casserole in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.

Pairing Cheesy Chicken Spinach Spaghetti Bake with Wine

• Craft a Crisp White Wine Pairing: Grab a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to cut through the creamy, cheesy richness of the casserole. These light, zesty wines complement the dish's subtle garlic and spinach notes without overwhelming the delicate flavors.
• Serve with Fresh Herb Salad: Toss together a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the heavy, comforting casserole. The peppery greens and bright citrus will provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.
• Pour a Smooth Craft Beer: Select a crisp pilsner or wheat beer to cleanse the palate between bites. The carbonation and light flavor profile will help refresh your taste buds and prevent the meal from feeling too heavy.
• Add Roasted Vegetable Side: Prepare quick roasted asparagus or Brussels sprouts with olive oil and sea salt. These simple, caramelized vegetables will add a nice textural crunch and earthy flavor that complements the cheesy chicken spaghetti bake.

Cheesy Chicken Spinach Spaghetti Bake Variations

• Zesty Mediterranean Chicken Pasta: Replace Monterey Jack with feta cheese, add sun-dried tomatoes, and sprinkle dried oregano for a Greek-inspired version. Swap spinach with fresh arugula for extra peppery flavor.
• Spicy Southwest Chicken Spaghetti: Incorporate diced green chiles, swap cream of chicken soup with enchilada sauce, and add pepper jack cheese. Top with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream after baking.
• Creamy Mushroom Chicken Casserole: Include sautéed sliced mushrooms in the mixture, use cream of mushroom soup instead of chicken soup, and mix in some thyme. Replace French Fried Onions with toasted breadcrumbs for added crunch.
• Veggie-Loaded Chicken Pasta Bake: Add roasted bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots to the chicken mixture. Use part-skim mozzarella cheese and sprinkle some nutritional yeast for a healthier twist.

Why Cheesy Chicken Spinach Spaghetti Bake Is So Comforting

• Satisfy Creamy Comfort Cravings: Dive into a luscious, cheesy casserole that blends tender chicken, silky spaghetti, and rich cream sauce for the ultimate comfort food experience.
• Effortless Family-Friendly Feast: Whip up this one-dish wonder in under an hour, perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious meal without complicated cooking techniques.
• Texture Paradise: Enjoy the delightful contrast between crispy golden French fried onions, creamy sauce, soft spaghetti, and juicy chicken that creates a mouthwatering sensory adventure in every bite.
• Sneaky Nutrition Booster: Incorporate healthy spinach into a crowd-pleasing dish that even picky eaters will devour, making it a clever way to add vegetables to your family's diet.

Cheesy Chicken Spinach Spaghetti Bake Recipe

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4.8 from 29 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Cheesy Chicken Spinach Spaghetti Bake delivers comfort and flavor in one irresistible dish. Creamy pasta layers meld with tender chicken and fresh spinach, creating a hearty meal perfect for family dinners that leave everyone satisfied.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein and Pasta:

• 4 cups chopped cooked chicken
• 12 ounces (340 grams) dried spaghetti

Dairy and Creamy Components:

• 16 ounces (454 grams) sour cream
• 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided
• 2 garlic cloves, minced

Supplementary Ingredients:

• 2 10.5-ounce (298 grams) cans unsalted cream of chicken soup
• 10 ounces (283 grams) frozen spinach, thawed and drained
• 6 ounces (170 grams) French Fried Onions, divided

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Instructions

1. Warm the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly coat a 9 × 13-inch (23 × 33 centimeters) baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the spaghetti in salted boiling water according to package instructions until perfectly tender yet firm (al dente). Carefully drain the pasta in a colander, allowing excess water to escape completely.
3. Shred or dice the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces, ensuring uniform size for consistent flavor distribution throughout the dish.
4. In a spacious mixing bowl, blend the chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, thoroughly drained spinach, Monterey Jack cheese, finely minced garlic, and half of the French fried onions until ingredients are evenly incorporated.
5. Transfer the drained spaghetti into the prepared mixture, gently folding and stirring to guarantee each pasta strand is generously coated with the creamy sauce.
6. Smoothly transfer the combined spaghetti and chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish, creating an even layer for consistent cooking.
7. Scatter the remaining Monterey Jack cheese across the top, followed by an even sprinkle of the remaining French fried onions for a delightful crispy texture.
8. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 40 to 50 minutes, or until the dish is thoroughly heated, bubbling around the edges, and the onion topping turns a rich golden brown.

Notes

• Ideal for busy weeknights, this creamy chicken spinach spaghetti bake combines comfort food with quick preparation.
• Versatile dish allows substitutions like using rotisserie chicken or gluten-free pasta for dietary needs.
• French fried onions provide a delightful crunch and elevate the texture of this cheesy casserole.
• Perfectly balanced meal includes protein from chicken, greens from spinach, and carbohydrates from spaghetti.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated for up to 3 days, making meal prep easier.
• Pro tip: Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes after baking to help it set and make serving smoother.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 620 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 750 mg
• Fat: 36 g
• Saturated Fat: 17 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 42 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 38 g
• Cholesterol: 135 mg