Chicken Spaghetti Casserole With White Sauce
If you're looking for a hearty and flavorful meal that's easy to prepare, then you should try making chicken spaghetti casserole with white sauce. This dish is a classic American recipe that's perfect for any occasion, whether you're cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party with friends.
What makes this dish so special is the combination of tender chicken, al dente spaghetti, and a rich, creamy white sauce. The flavors blend together perfectly to create a dish that's both comforting and delicious. Plus, it's a great way to use up leftover chicken or spaghetti!
In this article, we'll give you a step-by-step guide to making chicken spaghetti casserole with white sauce, including tips and tricks to make it even better. So, let's get started!
The Ingredients You'll Need
Before you start cooking, make sure you have all the ingredients you need. Here's what you'll need to make chicken spaghetti casserole with white sauce:
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Make sure you have everything on hand before you start cooking, so you don't have to run to the grocery store in the middle of cooking!
How to Make Chicken Spaghetti Casserole With White Sauce
Now that you have all the ingredients you need, it's time to start cooking! Here's a step-by-step guide to making chicken spaghetti casserole with white sauce:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the flour and whisk until smooth.
- Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly, until the sauce is smooth and thickened.
- Stir in the cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Add the cooked chicken to the sauce and stir to combine.
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce and stir until everything is well coated.
- Transfer the mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the panko breadcrumbs over the top of the casserole.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is hot and bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve.
Tips and Tricks for Making the Best Chicken Spaghetti Casserole With White Sauce
If you want to take your chicken spaghetti casserole to the next level, here are some tips and tricks to keep in mind:
- Use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor.
- Add vegetables like diced bell peppers, onion, or mushrooms to the sauce for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Use a combination of different cheeses for a more complex flavor. Try adding Monterey Jack or Gouda cheese to the mix.
- Make sure the sauce is thick enough to coat the spaghetti. If it's too thin, add more flour, and if it's too thick, add more milk.
- If you don't have panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers will work just as well.
- If you're short on time, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and bake it later. Just cover it with foil and refrigerate until you're ready to bake it.
Conclusion
Chicken spaghetti casserole with white sauce is a classic American recipe that's easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With tender chicken, al dente spaghetti, and a rich, creamy white sauce, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Follow our step-by-step guide and tips and tricks to make the best chicken spaghetti casserole ever!