If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug in every bite, the Million Dollar Chicken Spaghetti Recipe is exactly what you need. This baked casserole combines tender shredded chicken, perfectly cooked spaghetti, and a creamy, cheesy sauce that melts into comfort food heaven. Each forkful brings together a delicious medley of creamy textures and savory flavors that make it an instant family favorite and a go-to for any cozy night in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple yet essential ingredients come together to create a luscious texture, rich flavor, and satisfying color in this dish. From the creamy cheeses to the perfectly seasoned chicken, every element plays a vital role in the magic of Million Dollar Chicken Spaghetti Recipe.
- 12 oz spaghetti: Cooked and drained, this forms the base that soaks up all the creamy goodness.
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken: Tender protein that adds heartiness and flavor.
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened: Provides the silky, rich foundation of the sauce.
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds tanginess and creaminess to balance the richness.
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup: Gives depth and moisture for a smooth casserole consistency.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided: Sharpness and melty texture, split between sauce and topping.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty richness and savory punch.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Flavor enhancer that warms the dish subtly.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Complements the garlic for a perfect seasoning.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential to bring all the flavors together.
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley (optional for garnish): Adds a fresh, vibrant touch to finish.
How to Make Million Dollar Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) while lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Make sure your spaghetti is cooked just right—al dente is perfect—then drain it well to keep the casserole from getting watery.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Sauce
In a large bowl, blend together the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and cream of chicken soup with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and the Parmesan. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, and season it with salt and pepper. Whisk until everything is irresistibly smooth and creamy—that’s the soul of our Million Dollar Chicken Spaghetti Recipe.
Step 3: Combine Everything
Fold the cooked spaghetti and shredded chicken into the creamy mixture, tossing gently so every strand and shred is evenly coated. This ensures each bite delivers that dreamy sauce along with tender chicken and pasta together.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pour the combined mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the top, creating a golden, bubbly crust as it bakes. Place it in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes until it’s hot, bubbly, and the cheese on top is beautifully melted and slightly browned.
How to Serve Million Dollar Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing your Million Dollar Chicken Spaghetti Recipe with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds an inviting pop of color and a hint of herbal brightness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy richness. For an extra touch, a light dusting of paprika can offer a warm aroma and slight color boost.
Side Dishes
This dish is packed with flavor and substance, so lighter sides work best. Crisp green salads with zesty vinaigrettes, steamed broccoli, or roasted asparagus complement the cheesy casserole perfectly by adding texture and freshness to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in small ramekins or muffin tins for perfectly shaped personal casseroles. You can also bake this dish topped with crushed buttery crackers or crispy fried onions for an exciting crunch that elevates the classic comfort food vibe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen after resting, making for a delicious second meal just as satisfying as the first.
Freezing
The Million Dollar Chicken Spaghetti Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results without compromising texture or flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the dish with foil to keep it moist and warm it in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, microwave individual servings covered with a damp paper towel to retain moisture and keep it creamy.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that adds fantastic flavor and saves prep time without sacrificing any of the deliciousness in this Million Dollar Chicken Spaghetti Recipe.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Yes, feel free to add diced green chiles or sprinkle in red pepper flakes to give your dish a gentle heat that contrasts nicely with the rich creaminess.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing before baking?
It sure is. Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and freeze. When ready to bake, allow it to thaw overnight and extend baking time slightly to ensure it’s hot and bubbly throughout.
Can I substitute the cream of chicken soup?
If you prefer, you can use homemade cream of chicken soup or a cream of mushroom variety. Just keep in mind it might slightly alter the flavor but will still be delicious.
How can I make this recipe lower in fat?
Using reduced-fat cream cheese, sour cream, and cheeses can help, as well as trimming the chicken of skin and fat. Still, the signature creamy texture is part of what makes the Million Dollar Chicken Spaghetti Recipe so irresistible.
Final Thoughts
There’s a very good reason the Million Dollar Chicken Spaghetti Recipe has captured hearts around dinner tables everywhere—it’s pure comfort in every bite. Whether it’s a weeknight treat or a potluck favorite, this creamy, cheesy casserole is sure to bring smiles and satisfied appetites. Give it a try, and you might just find a new go-to dish that feels like a million bucks!
Print
Million Dollar Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Million Dollar Chicken Spaghetti is a creamy, cheesy baked pasta casserole featuring tender shredded chicken, tender spaghetti noodles, and a rich blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and cheddar. This comforting American classic is easy to prepare and perfect as a hearty dinner for the whole family.
Ingredients
Chicken and Pasta
- 12 oz spaghetti, cooked and drained
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
Dairy and Cheese
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Condiments and Seasoning
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnish
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Mix Creamy Sauce. In a large bowl, thoroughly combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until you get a smooth, creamy mixture.
- Add Chicken and Spaghetti. Stir the cooked shredded chicken and cooked spaghetti into the creamy mixture, mixing well until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated with the sauce.
- Assemble in Baking Dish. Pour the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Then sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the cheese on top is melted and slightly golden.
- Garnish and Serve. Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired before serving warm.
Notes
- You can use rotisserie chicken as a quick and convenient shortcut to cooked shredded chicken.
- For a bit of heat, add diced green chiles or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture.
- Make sure to cook the spaghetti al dente to avoid mushy pasta after baking.
- This dish reheats well and can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
