The first time I made Joanna Gaines Chicken Spaghetti Recipe, my kitchen was filled with the most incredible, comforting aroma.

It reminded me of a classic mac and cheese but with a sophisticated, grown-up twist.

I was looking for a go-to family dinner, and this creamy, cheesy bake immediately became a household favorite.

It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug, perfect for a cozy evening. Seeing it bubble up, all golden and delicious in the oven, I knew it would be a recipe I’d make again and again.

Ingredients

These ingredients come together to create a rich, creamy, and deeply satisfying pasta bake.

1 pound spaghetti: The classic pasta choice that gets beautifully coated in the creamy sauce.
2 tablespoons butter: Used to sauté the vegetables, creating a flavorful foundation for the sauce.
1 medium onion, diced: Provides a sweet and savory aromatic base as it cooks down.
1 red bell pepper, finely chopped: Adds a touch of sweetness and vibrant color to the dish.
1 yellow bell pepper, finely chopped: Complements the red pepper with its milder, sweet flavor.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is essential for adding that pungent, savory depth.
4 ounces baby bella mushrooms, sliced: These bring a wonderful earthy flavor and meaty texture.
1 cup heavy cream: The key to an ultra-rich and luscious cheese sauce.
1 cup milk: Works with the cream to create the perfect sauce consistency without being overly heavy.
1 cup chicken broth: Adds a savory, salty element that thins the sauce just enough.
4 ounces cream cheese, cubed: This is the secret to an extra tangy and velvety smooth sauce.
4 ounces processed cheese (like Velveeta), cubed: Guarantees a perfectly smooth, non-greasy melt that classic cheese can’t replicate.
8 ounces sharp white cheddar cheese, grated: Provides a sharp, tangy flavor to balance the richness. Use a freshly grated block for the best melt.
3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken: A fantastic time-saver that adds perfectly seasoned, tender chicken.
Fresh parsley, for garnish: A sprinkle of fresh herbs at the end adds a pop of color and freshness.

Note: This recipe yields enough for a 9×13-inch pan, serving approximately 6-8 people.

Variations

Feel free to customize this recipe with these simple swaps and additions.

Lighter Sauce: For a less decadent version, replace the heavy cream with half-and-half or use all milk. The sauce will still be creamy thanks to the cream cheese.
Cheese Blends: Swap the white cheddar for Gruyère for a nutty flavor, or use a mix of Monterey Jack and sharp cheddar. A little Parmesan can also add a salty kick.
Add More Veggies: Bulk up the dish by adding more mushrooms or sautéed spinach. Diced zucchini or broccoli florets would also be delicious additions.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce along with the other seasonings for a gentle heat.
Different Protein: While it’s chicken spaghetti, this recipe would also work well with leftover shredded turkey, especially after the holidays.

Cooking Time

This comforting bake comes together with a bit of prep and a quick bake.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 28 minutes
Total Time: 58 minutes

Equipment you need

You’ll need a few standard kitchen items to prepare this dish.

Large Pot: For boiling the spaghetti until it’s perfectly al dente.
Deep Skillet or Dutch Oven: To make the cheese sauce and combine all the components before baking.
9×13-inch Baking Dish: The ideal size for baking this casserole to golden, bubbly perfection.
Chef’s Knife and Cutting Board: For dicing the vegetables and preparing the other ingredients.
Whisk: Essential for creating a smooth, lump-free cheese sauce.

How to Make Joanna Gaines Chicken Spaghetti Recipe?

Follow these simple steps to create a creamy, comforting pasta bake that your whole family will love. This recipe breaks down into three main parts: preparing the pasta, creating the rich and velvety cheese sauce, and then baking it all together until it’s golden and bubbly. The process is straightforward and results in a truly spectacular comfort food dish.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Sauté the Vegetables

First, get a large pot of salted water boiling for your spaghetti and cook it until it’s al dente. While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion, bell peppers, and garlic, and sauté for about six minutes until they are soft and fragrant. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for another two minutes until they have released some of their moisture.

Step 2: Create the Creamy Cheese Sauce

Pour the heavy cream, milk, and chicken broth into the skillet with the vegetables. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the cubed cream cheese and processed cheese. Stir or whisk frequently until the cheeses have completely melted and the sauce is smooth. Turn off the heat and stir in the grated white cheddar until it’s fully incorporated. Finally, add the shredded rotisserie chicken and the cooked, drained spaghetti to the sauce, tossing until every strand is coated.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Transfer the spaghetti mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it into an even layer. For a final cheesy touch, sprinkle the remaining shredded white cheddar over the top. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 8 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and the sauce is bubbling around the edges.

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

After making this a few times, I’ve learned a couple of things that make it even more delicious.

I highly recommend shredding your own cheese from a block. It melts so much better than the pre-shredded kind, which is often coated in starches that can make the sauce slightly grainy.
Don’t overcook the spaghetti. I pull it from the water when it’s still got a definite bite because it will continue to cook in the oven. This prevents it from turning mushy in the final dish.
When I want to make this for a weeknight, I prep all the components ahead of time. I chop the veggies and shred the chicken the night before, which makes the actual cooking process feel much faster.
I always taste the sauce before adding the pasta. The saltiness can vary depending on your chicken broth and cheese, so it’s a good idea to adjust the seasoning at that stage.

How to Serve Joanna Gaines Chicken Spaghetti Recipe?

This rich and hearty casserole is a satisfying meal all on its own. To balance its creaminess, serve it with a simple side salad tossed in a bright lemon vinaigrette or a side of steamed green beans or roasted broccoli. A few slices of crusty garlic bread are also perfect for soaking up any extra delicious sauce on your plate. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley right before serving to add a touch of color and freshness.

Nutritional Information

Here is an approximate breakdown of the nutritional facts per serving.

Calories: ~550 kcal
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 28g

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe is great for planning ahead and enjoying later.

Making Ahead:
You can fully assemble the casserole a day in advance. Simply cover the unbaked dish tightly with foil and store it in the refrigerator. You may need to add 10-15 minutes to the initial covered baking time to ensure it’s heated through.

Storing:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often meld and taste even better the next day.

Reheating:
Reheat individual portions in the microwave until hot. For a larger amount, place the leftovers in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes, or until heated through.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Here are a few reasons why this chicken spaghetti is sure to become a new favorite.

Ultimate Comfort Food: The combination of creamy cheese sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta creates a dish that is deeply satisfying and comforting.
Feeds a Crowd: This recipe makes a generous amount in a 9×13-inch pan, making it perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or having delicious leftovers.
Customizable and Versatile: It’s easy to add extra vegetables or switch up the cheese blend to suit your family’s preferences.
Incredibly Rich Flavor: The unique blend of cream cheese, processed cheese, and sharp cheddar creates a sauce that is exceptionally smooth, tangy, and flavorful.