Christmas Chicken Spaghetti Recipe

Let me tell you about this Christmas Chicken Spaghetti Recipe that’s become a holiday staple in my house. It’s one of those dishes that’s comforting and festive all at once, perfect for feeding a crowd without spending hours in the kitchen. The creamy, cheesy sauce paired with tender chicken and a little kick from Ro*Tel tomatoes brings everyone to the table with smiles—and plenty of second helpings.

If you’re looking for a recipe that feels special but is actually super simple to make, you’re going to love this Christmas Chicken Spaghetti Recipe. It’s a great choice for Christmas dinner, holiday potlucks, or really anytime you want a warm, satisfying meal that feels like a hug in pasta form. Trust me, this one’s worth having in your recipe rotation year after year.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses classic pantry staples that come together beautifully to create a creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy dish. I like to use good-quality Velveeta for that signature smooth melt, and canned Ro*Tel for just enough heat and tang.

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: I prefer chicken breasts for tenderness and easy shredding, but thighs could work too if you want a juicier bite.
• Spaghetti: Classic long pasta holds the sauce well—no need to overcook, just al dente is perfect.
• Ro*Tel Tomatoes: The little bursts of tomato and mild heat really make this dish stand out.
• Cream of mushroom soup: This adds a rich, creamy base for the sauce—two cans really amp up the creaminess.
• Velveeta cheese: The star of the sauce, giving it that melt-in-your-mouth texture and flavor.
• Cream cheese: Adds tang and extra creaminess—soften it before mixing for the best results.
• Garlic powder: Simple but effective seasoning to wake up the flavors.
• Onion powder: Enhances the depth of flavor with minimal effort.
• Sharp cheddar cheese: Sprinkled on top for a golden, melty crust that’s pure comfort food.

Variations

I love making this recipe my own depending on what’s in the fridge or the mood we’re in. Feel free to tweak it to suit your tastes or dietary needs—it’s very forgiving!

• Variation: I’ve swapped cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken soup to intensify the chicken flavor—both work wonderfully.
• Variation: For a little extra zing, I sometimes add diced green chilies or a splash of hot sauce—I find it adds just enough heat without overpowering.
• Variation: To keep it lighter, I’ve made this with reduced-fat cheese options and whole wheat spaghetti, and it still tastes delicious.
• Variation: For a veggie boost, sautéed mushrooms or spinach stirred in before baking is a great way to sneak some greens.

How to Make Christmas Chicken Spaghetti Recipe

Step 1: Cook and Shred the Chicken

Start by boiling your chicken breasts until they’re fully cooked and tender, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes. Don’t overcook here, since you’ll bake everything later. Once done, shred the chicken with two forks—this makes layering the meat throughout the spaghetti so much easier and ensures every bite is nice and meaty.

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti

While the chicken is cooking, boil your spaghetti until it’s just al dente. Remember, it’ll soften a bit more in the oven, so don’t let it get mushy. Drain and set aside, and I usually drizzle a bit of olive oil on the noodles to keep them from sticking together.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce

In a large skillet, combine the cream of mushroom soup, softened cream cheese, and Velveeta (cubed is easiest). Stir over low heat until melted and smooth. Then mix in the Ro*Tel tomatoes with their juice, garlic powder, and onion powder. This step is where all the magic happens—the sauce should be creamy, luscious, and perfectly seasoned.

Step 4: Combine and Bake

Stir your shredded chicken and cooked spaghetti into the sauce until everything is evenly coated. Pour it all into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with shredded sharp cheddar cheese, which melts into a golden, bubbly finish while baking. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly. If you love a crispier top, you can broil it for the last 2-3 minutes—just watch carefully so it doesn’t burn.

How to Serve Christmas Chicken Spaghetti Recipe

Garnishes

When I serve this Christmas Chicken Spaghetti Recipe, I like to add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or green onions right before digging in. It brightens up the creamy dish with a pop of color and freshness that makes it feel even more festive and inviting.

Side Dishes

I usually pair this spaghetti with a simple green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or dinner rolls are a must too—nothing beats that carb combo when you’re enjoying cheesy pasta!

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re hosting a holiday gathering, I like to bake this Christmas Chicken Spaghetti Recipe in festive ceramic dishes or cast iron skillets. You can even prepare individual portions in mini casserole dishes or ramekins for a cute presentation. It makes serving easy and looks charming on the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge, and they usually keep really well for 3 to 4 days. The flavors meld even more after sitting overnight, so I sometimes find the next day tastes even better!

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully. I like to portion it out into freezer-safe containers before baking—then just thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready. You can bake it straight from thawed, adding a bit more baking time if needed.

Reheating

For reheating, I find the oven is best to keep the dish creamy and avoid drying out. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions covered with a damp paper towel for a quick fix.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Christmas Chicken Spaghetti Recipe is one of those dishes I keep coming back to because it hits all the right notes: comforting, not fussy, and absolutely delicious. Every time I make it, I feel like I’m sharing a little holiday joy with my family and friends. Give it a try—you’ll love how simple it is to bring a classic, festive feel to your table without stress.

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