Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Bake – The Best Comfort Food Ever

This Chicken Spaghetti is the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness with a lighter twist. Packed with lean protein, whole wheat pasta, and a flavorful sauce, it delivers all the comfort of a classic dish without the heaviness. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this easy and delicious recipe is sure to be a favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy & Satisfying: A cheesy, comforting dish made lighter without sacrificing flavor.
• High in Protein: Uses lean chicken breast for a protein-packed meal.
• Quick & Easy: Simple ingredients and minimal prep make this a hassle-free dinner option.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Stores well for leftovers and easy reheating.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Spaghetti:

• 8 oz whole wheat spaghetti
• 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 1/2 cup diced bell pepper (red or green)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
• 1 cup reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup reduced-fat cream cheese
• 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional for spice)
• Cooking spray

Instructions

Cook the Spaghetti:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
• Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables:

• Heat a large skillet over medium heat and spray with cooking spray.
• Add diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.

Make the Sauce:

• Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, Italian seasoning, and chili powder.
• Reduce heat and let simmer for 5 minutes to blend flavors.

Combine Chicken & Cheese:

• Add the shredded chicken to the sauce and mix well.
• Stir in the cream cheese until melted and smooth.
• Remove from heat and mix in half of the shredded cheddar cheese.

Assemble & Bake:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• In a large baking dish, combine cooked spaghetti with the sauce mixture, tossing to coat evenly.
• Sprinkle remaining shredded cheese on top.
• Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve & Enjoy:

• Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or an extra sprinkle of cheese if desired.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: 320
• Carbs: 35g
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 9g
• Fiber: 6g
• Sugar: 4g

Tips for Success

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: A great time-saving hack to make this dish even quicker.
• Choose Whole Wheat Pasta: Provides extra fiber and nutrients while keeping you full.
• Control the Spice: Adjust chili powder based on your heat preference.
• Make It Ahead: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze for later.

Why This Recipe Works

• Creamy but Light: The mix of cream cheese and broth keeps it creamy without being overly heavy.
• Packed with Flavor: Seasoned chicken, garlic, and tomatoes bring bold flavors to every bite.
• Family-Friendly & Comforting: A classic dish everyone will love, but with a healthier twist.

This Chicken Spaghetti is the ultimate comfort food made better with lighter ingredients, high protein, and bold flavors. Whether you’re serving it fresh or enjoying leftovers, it’s a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for any night of the week!