Texas Chicken Spaghetti Recipe – Better Than Takeout And So Easy To Make

Texas chicken spaghetti recipe is a creamy, cheesy comfort meal that’s loved across Southern kitchens. It’s made with tender chicken, melted cheese, spaghetti noodles, and a smooth sauce that brings everything together. If you’re looking for an easy family dinner that feels homemade and hearty, this dish is perfect.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to make the best Texas chicken spaghetti recipe step by step. You’ll learn what ingredients to use, how to cook and bake it, and how to add your own twist with extra spice or cheese. We’ll also cover how to store leftovers, reheat them, and what to serve on the side.

Don’t miss our easy chicken spaghetti recipe for a quicker version with simple steps!

Texas Chicken Spaghetti Recipe Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients for Texas chicken spaghetti recipe

Key ingredients in Texas Chicken Spaghetti Recipe

To make a Texas chicken spaghetti recipe that’s rich, creamy, and full of flavor, you only need a few simple ingredients. Most of them can be found in any kitchen or local store. Here’s what you’ll need:

IngredientPurpose
Cooked chicken breastMain protein, shredded or chopped
Spaghetti noodlesThe pasta base of the dish
Rotel tomatoesAdds flavor, spice, and a bit of tang
Cream of mushroom soupBrings the creamy texture and mild flavor
Velveeta cheeseMelts smoothly, making the sauce extra cheesy
Chicken brothHelps mix and smooth the sauce
Onion and garlicAdds aroma and extra flavor
Salt and pepperFor seasoning
Olive oil or butterUsed when sautéing onions and garlic

These ingredients come together to create a dish that’s creamy, cheesy, and full of rich flavors. Many people love the Velveeta and Rotel combination, which is very common in Southern chicken pasta dishes.

Looking for inspiration? Try our crockpot chicken spaghetti for a slow-cooked version of this classic.

Extra ingredients that upgrade the flavor

If you want to make your Texas chicken spaghetti recipe even more delicious, here are a few extras you can add:

  • Diced bell peppers: Adds a sweet crunch
  • Chopped green chilies: Gives a bit of heat
  • Cream cheese: Makes it extra creamy
  • Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese: Adds more cheesy flavor
  • Red pepper flakes: For a spicy kick

You can also try using whole wheat spaghetti for more fiber or gluten-free pasta if needed. Want to cut calories? Use low-fat cheese and reduced-sodium soups.

Don’t miss our ground beef and mashed potatoes recipe if you love hearty, comfort-style meals like this one.

How to Make Texas Chicken Spaghetti Recipe Step-by-Step

Cooking Texas chicken spaghetti step-by-step

How to cook chicken for Texas Chicken Spaghetti Recipe

The first step in a great Texas chicken spaghetti recipe is the chicken. You want it juicy and flavorful. Here’s how you can prepare it:

  1. Boil or bake the chicken breast until it’s fully cooked (about 20 minutes if boiling).
  2. Let it cool a little, then shred it using two forks or chop it into small pieces.
  3. You can also use rotisserie chicken if you’re in a hurry — it’s tasty and saves time.

If you want more flavor, boil the chicken with onions, garlic, and salt in the water. This adds extra taste to your meat.

Looking for a richer flavor? Check out our chicken with red sauce — it’s perfect if you love saucy chicken dishes.

Making the creamy sauce and mixing with spaghetti

Now it’s time to make the cheesy, creamy sauce that makes this dish so comforting.

Step-by-step instructions:

  1. In a large pot or deep skillet, sauté chopped onions and garlic in olive oil or butter until soft.
  2. Add Rotel tomatoes, cream of mushroom soup, and chicken broth. Stir well.
  3. Cut the Velveeta cheese into cubes, then add to the pot. Stir until fully melted.
  4. Add your cooked shredded chicken to the pot and mix everything together.
  5. In a separate pot, boil spaghetti noodles according to the package instructions.
  6. Drain the spaghetti and add it to the cheese and chicken mixture. Mix well so the sauce covers every strand of pasta.
  7. Pour everything into a baking dish, top with shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack (optional), and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Now you’ve got a perfect baked chicken spaghetti with that signature Texas flavor — creamy, cheesy, and full of goodness.

For more easy comfort meals, check out our easy chicken spaghetti recipe — great for beginners.

Why This Texas Chicken Spaghetti Recipe Works So Well

Flavor and texture in the Texas Chicken Spaghetti Recipe

One reason why people love the Texas chicken spaghetti recipe is the perfect mix of flavors and textures. You get a balance of creamy, cheesy, spicy, and hearty in every bite.

  • The Velveeta cheese makes the sauce smooth and rich.
  • Rotel tomatoes add a spicy, tangy kick that wakes up your taste buds.
  • The cream of mushroom soup blends everything together and makes it soft and creamy.
  • The spaghetti noodles soak up all the flavor, so nothing goes to waste.
  • Shredded chicken adds protein and a meaty texture that fills you up.

This is not just another cheesy chicken casserole — it’s full of bold, Southern-style comfort food flavor. Perfect for both kids and adults.

Looking for inspiration? Try our ribeye steak sandwich for another comfort food classic that’s big on flavor.

Pro tips for a perfect spaghetti dish every time

Want to make your Texas chicken spaghetti recipe even better? Here are some easy expert tips:

  • Cook the pasta slightly underdone (al dente). It will finish cooking in the oven without getting mushy.
  • Season every layer. Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, or even taco seasoning to boost taste.
  • If you like heat, add a bit of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes.
  • Don’t skip the bake — oven time helps the sauce thicken and brings everything together.
  • Let the dish sit for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce settle and makes it easier to cut and serve.

If you love layered, cheesy dishes, don’t miss our ground beef stroganoff — creamy, meaty, and easy to make.

Fun Variations of Texas Chicken Spaghetti Recipe

Spicy version of Texas Chicken Spaghetti Recipe

If you love spicy food, you’ll enjoy this twist on the classic Texas chicken spaghetti recipe. It’s still creamy and cheesy but with more heat and bold flavor.

Spicy add-ins to try:

  • Diced green chilies or jalapeños
  • Hot Rotel (with habanero or chili)
  • A pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes
  • Add a spoon of sriracha or hot sauce to the cheese sauce

These spicy touches turn this into a spicy chicken spaghetti that still keeps its rich, Southern style. It’s perfect for anyone who likes their comfort food with a kick.

Looking for spicy meals? Check out our korean ground beef bulgogi — a quick dinner with heat and flavor.

Cheesy baked twist on the classic recipe

Want even more cheese? Turn your dish into a cheesy baked chicken spaghetti casserole. This version is rich, creamy, and oven-baked for a golden, bubbly top.

Cheesy tips:

  • Mix in cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella along with Velveeta
  • Sprinkle extra shredded cheese on top before baking
  • Add a layer of crushed crackers or breadcrumbs for crunch

Bake the dish at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until it’s hot and the cheese on top is melted and slightly golden.

This cheesy version is perfect for family dinners or potluck parties.

Nutrition and Healthy Swaps for Texas Chicken Spaghetti

Healthy swaps for Texas chicken spaghetti recipe

Nutrition info for Texas Chicken Spaghetti Recipe

The Texas chicken spaghetti recipe is a rich, filling meal, but it’s good to know what you’re eating. Here’s an average nutrition breakdown per serving (based on 6 servings total):

NutrientAmount (Approx.)
Calories480–550 kcal
Protein28–35g
Carbohydrates40–45g
Fats22–28g
SodiumHigh (mostly from soup and cheese)
Fiber2–3g

Because of the cheese, creamy soup, and spaghetti, this dish is high in fat and sodium. It’s a great comfort food, but if you want to enjoy it often, you may want to try some lighter ingredients.

Healthier ingredients to use in the same recipe

Here are some easy swaps to make your Texas chicken spaghetti recipe a little better for your body — without losing that creamy, Southern flavor:

1. Cheese

  • Use low-fat cheddar or reduced-fat Velveeta
  • Try part-skim mozzarella or plant-based cheese if needed

2. Creamy soups

  • Use low-sodium cream of mushroom soup
  • Try Greek yogurt or a mix of low-fat cream cheese and milk

3. Pasta

  • Replace regular spaghetti with whole wheat pasta
  • Try chickpea or lentil pasta for more fiber and protein

4. Protein

  • Use grilled chicken breast or leftover rotisserie chicken
  • Remove the skin to cut down on fat

5. Add veggies

  • Mix in spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to add vitamins and fiber

Want a tasty low-carb dinner idea? Don’t miss our cajun deep fried turkey — protein-packed and full of flavor.

These changes can help turn your creamy, cheesy meal into a more balanced dish you can enjoy more often.

How to Store and Reheat Texas Chicken Spaghetti

Best way to store your Texas Chicken Spaghetti Recipe

If you made a big batch of this Texas chicken spaghetti recipe, don’t worry — it stores really well! Here’s how to keep it fresh and tasty:

In the fridge

  • Let the spaghetti cool completely first.
  • Put it into an airtight container or cover the dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap.
  • Store it in the fridge for up to 4 days.

In the freezer

  • This dish also freezes well. Just place it in a freezer-safe container.
  • Wrap it well to avoid freezer burn.
  • You can freeze it for up to 3 months.

Tip: For best results, freeze before baking. This keeps the pasta from getting too soft later.

Looking for another make-ahead favorite? Try our turkey injection recipe for juicy meat you can prep days ahead.

Reheating tips for keeping it creamy and tasty

To make your leftovers taste just as good as fresh, follow these easy reheating tips:

Microwave method

  • Place one serving in a microwave-safe dish.
  • Add 1–2 tablespoons of milk or chicken broth on top to keep it creamy.
  • Cover loosely with a microwave-safe lid or plate.
  • Heat for 1–2 minutes, stir, then heat for 30 more seconds if needed.

Oven method

  • Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
  • Place the spaghetti in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil.
  • Heat for 20 minutes, or until hot all the way through.
  • Remove foil in the last 5 minutes if you want the top a little crispy.

Tip: Avoid overheating or using high heat — it can dry out the sauce and make the cheese grainy.

Don’t miss our homemade turkey injection for more meal-prep-friendly favorites.

What to Serve with Texas Chicken Spaghetti Recipe

Texas chicken spaghetti served with salad and bread

Best sides for Texas Chicken Spaghetti

The Texas chicken spaghetti recipe is rich and creamy, so it pairs well with light and fresh side dishes. Here are some easy and tasty options:

1. Green salad
A simple side salad with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette adds crunch and freshness.

2. Garlic bread or Texas toast
Bread is perfect for soaking up the cheesy sauce. Go for crispy garlic bread or thick Texas toast for a full Southern feel.

3. Roasted vegetables
Try roasting broccoli, carrots, or green beans with olive oil, salt, and pepper. It balances the richness of the pasta.

4. Steamed corn or mixed veggies
A colorful side of corn or mixed vegetables is fast to make and adds a touch of sweetness.

Want more hearty sides? Check out our tri-tip sandwich — it’s great for leftovers or second-day meals.

Desserts and drinks that go well with this dish

Want to end your meal on a sweet note or with a cool drink? Here are some crowd-pleasers:

Easy dessert ideas

  • Peach cobbler or banana pudding – Southern classics
  • Chocolate chip cookies – simple and kid-friendly
  • Lemon bars – adds a light and tangy finish

Drink pairings

  • Iced tea – sweet or unsweetened, a Southern favorite
  • Lemonade – cold, fresh, and pairs well with creamy dishes
  • Sparkling water – a light option that helps cleanse the palate

Looking for a protein-packed meal to go with a light side? Don’t miss our cajun injected turkey — bold and full of flavor.

These food and drink ideas make your meal more complete, without taking attention away from the creamy, cheesy star of the show — your Texas chicken spaghetti.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why is it called “marry me chicken pasta”?

It’s called “marry me chicken pasta” because people say the flavor is so good it could make someone want to propose! The dish is creamy, cheesy, and full of garlic and spices — just like the rich flavor in a Texas chicken spaghetti recipe. The name is fun, and it shows how much people love this type of comfort food.

What kind of cheese goes in Chicken Spaghetti?

The most common cheese in a chicken spaghetti recipe is Velveeta because it melts smoothly and adds a creamy texture. But you can also use:

  • Cheddar cheese
  • Mozzarella
  • Monterey Jack

For a stronger flavor, mix two or more cheeses. This works great in baked chicken spaghetti versions.

Does cream of mushroom go in Chicken Spaghetti?

Yes, many recipes use cream of mushroom soup in chicken spaghetti. It adds a soft, creamy base and mixes well with cheese and tomatoes. If you don’t like mushrooms, you can use cream of chicken soup or even cream of celery as a swap.

In this Texas chicken spaghetti recipe, cream of mushroom soup is one of the key ingredients for the sauce.

Do you put cream cheese in Chicken Spaghetti?

You don’t have to, but cream cheese can make the sauce extra smooth and creamy. It’s a good addition if you want a richer texture. Use about 4 ounces of cream cheese and melt it into the sauce with the other ingredients.

Some people also mix cream cheese with shredded cheddar or low-fat options for a healthier twist. Either way, it makes a great upgrade to the classic Southern chicken pasta.


 

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