When it's time to eat, this Chicken Spaghetti recipe is comfort food that delights everyone. This easy recipe is a heavenly combination of noodles, chicken, and red peppers in a creamy sauce, with lots of melted cheese.
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. In a large pot, bring 4 quarts water and 1 tablespoon salt to boil. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 9 to 10 minutes. Drain well.
Meanwhile, in a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil until shimmering. Add onion and bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add chicken and chili powder and season to taste with salt and pepper (I like 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper). Cook until chicken is golden brown, about 5 to 7 minutes. Transfer chicken and vegetable mixture to a bowl.
Return the Dutch oven to medium-high heat and melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook until lightly browned, about 1 minute. Whisk in milk and chicken broth and cook until thickened, about 3 to 5 minutes.
Season to taste with salt and pepper (I like 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper). Do not skip this step or your casserole may be bland!
Stir in 1 cup cheddar cheese. Add cooked spaghetti and chicken and vegetable mixture and toss until well combined. Transfer to a 3-quart or larger baking dish and top with remaining 1 cup of cheese.
Bake until hot and bubbly, about 20 to 25 minutes (a chicken piece should register 165 degrees on an internal thermometer). Let stand 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
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Notes
Spaghetti: Or use something more forkable, like penne or ziti.
Chicken: I always use boneless, skinless chicken thighs, but you can use chicken breasts, leftover rotisserie chicken, or even leftover turkey.
Yield: This recipe makes about 12 cups of casserole, enough for 8 generous servings (1 1/2 cups each) or more if you're serving it at a potluck or as part of a buffet with other main dish options.
Storage: Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Make ahead: Make up to 2 days before you need it; store covered in the refrigerator.