On a rainy evening, with the sound of raindrops tapping against the window and the cozy warmth of home wrapping around us, the question arises: what to cook for dinner? The chill in the air calls for something comforting, something that brings the family together around the table.
That’s when Million Dollar Chicken Spaghetti comes to mind—a dish that’s both indulgent and satisfying, perfect for such a night.
This casserole is a blend of creamy textures and savory flavors, with shredded chicken, tender spaghetti, and a rich cheese sauce all baked to golden perfection. The buttery Ritz cracker topping adds a delightful crunch, making each bite a comforting experience. It’s a dish that not only fills the stomach but also warms the heart, turning an ordinary rainy evening into a memorable family meal.
Short Description
Million Dollar Chicken Spaghetti is a creamy, cheesy casserole featuring shredded chicken, spaghetti noodles, and a rich blend of cheeses, all topped with a buttery Ritz cracker crust. It’s a comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners.
Key Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 8 oz spaghetti, cooked and drained
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- Tools Needed
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Small mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Oven
Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Add Chicken and Spaghetti
To the sauce mixture, add the shredded chicken and cooked spaghetti. Gently toss to ensure the pasta and chicken are evenly coated with the sauce.
Step 4: Assemble Casserole
Transfer the chicken and spaghetti mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Step 5: Prepare Topping
In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
Step 6: Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
Step 7: Serve
Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this comforting dish with your loved ones.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Comforting and Hearty: The creamy sauce and tender chicken make each bite satisfying.
Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Crowd-Pleaser: Its rich flavors are sure to please both kids and adults alike.
Make-Ahead Friendly: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and bake it when ready to serve.
Mistakes to Avoid & Solutions
Overcooking the Spaghetti: Ensure the spaghetti is cooked al dente before mixing with the sauce to prevent it from becoming mushy during baking.
Uneven Topping: When sprinkling the Ritz cracker topping, make sure it’s evenly distributed to ensure consistent crunchiness.
Not Letting It Cool: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving to let it set and make serving easier.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Side Dishes: Serve with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the casserole.
Beverages: Pair with a light white wine or a refreshing iced tea.
Serving Style: This dish is ideal for family-style dining, allowing everyone to help themselves.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: The casserole can be frozen before baking. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. To bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute spaghetti with other pasta shapes like penne or rotini.
2. Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
Yes, you can replace the chicken with a mix of sautéed vegetables or plant-based protein.
3. Can I use low-fat dairy products?
Yes, using low-fat sour cream and cheese will reduce the calorie content.
4. How can I add more vegetables?
Consider adding sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to the casserole for added nutrition.
5. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
Tips & Tricks
Rotisserie Chicken: Using store-bought rotisserie chicken can save time and add extra flavor.
Herb Infusion: Add a teaspoon of dried basil or thyme to the sauce for an aromatic touch.
Crispier Topping: For an extra crispy topping, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
Recipe Variations
– Spicy Chicken Spaghetti:
Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture for a spicy kick.
– Bacon and Chicken Spaghetti:
Incorporate crumbled cooked bacon into the casserole for added flavor and texture.
– Alfredo Chicken Spaghetti:
Replace the cream of chicken soup with Alfredo sauce for a richer, creamier dish.
Final Thoughts
Million Dollar Chicken Spaghetti proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated to feel luxurious. With its creamy, cheesy sauce, tender chicken, and crispy topping, every bite brings the kind of warmth that turns an ordinary evening into something memorable. It’s the perfect balance of indulgence and ease — a dish that feels like a treat, yet fits seamlessly into your weekly dinner rotation.
WThis recipe delivers every time—perfect for impressing guests, satisfying a hungry family, or enjoying a cozy night in. And best of all? It’s one of those meals that’s just as satisfying the next day, making leftovers a little something to look forward to.
Million Dollar Chicken Spaghetti
Print ThisIngredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 8 oz spaghetti, cooked and drained
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- Tools Needed
- 9x13-inch baking dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Small mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Oven
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Mix soup, sour cream, cheeses, broth, and seasonings in a bowl.
Step 3: Add shredded chicken and cooked spaghetti; toss to coat.
Step 4: Transfer mixture to the baking dish and spread evenly.
Step 5: Combine crushed crackers with melted butter; sprinkle on top.
Step 6: Bake for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Step 7: Let cool slightly, then serve and enjoy.
