🍝 Creamy Three-Cheese Chicken Spaghetti with a Kick

Get ready for the ultimate comfort food with a spicy twist! This Creamy Three-Cheese Chicken Spaghetti with a Kick combines tender shredded chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, cheesy sauce with just the right amount of heat. It’s creamy, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying — a perfect weeknight meal or crowd-pleasing casserole.

Think of it as classic chicken spaghetti taken to the next level — extra creamy, extra cheesy, and with that little “kick” that keeps you coming back for another bite!

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🌟 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ Ultra creamy & cheesy — made with a trio of melted cheeses for rich flavor.
✅ Slightly spicy — adds warmth without being overwhelming.
✅ Family-friendly — comforting and filling, perfect for busy weeknights.
✅ Make-ahead & freezer-friendly — great for meal prep or gatherings.

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🧀 Ingredients

For the Pasta Base:

• 12 oz spaghetti noodles (or fettuccine if preferred)
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies (drained slightly)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup chicken broth
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Salt, to taste

For the Cheesy Goodness:

• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
• Optional: a few dashes of hot sauce for extra heat

For the Topping:

• ½ cup shredded cheddar (for baking)
• ¼ cup crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs (for crunch, optional)

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook spaghetti noodles until al dente according to package directions.
Drain, toss with a little butter to prevent sticking, and set aside.

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Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet or deep saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
Add onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

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Step 3: Build the Sauce

Add Rotel, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and all the seasonings (smoked paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, salt, and pepper).
Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.

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Step 4: Make It Cheesy

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, a handful at a time, until melted and smooth.
Mix in sour cream and shredded chicken.
Taste and adjust seasonings — add a few drops of hot sauce if you like it spicier!

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Step 5: Combine with Spaghetti

Add the cooked spaghetti to the cheese mixture.
Toss gently until all the noodles are coated in the creamy, cheesy sauce.

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Step 6: Bake It (Optional but Recommended)

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Sprinkle with the extra cheddar cheese and optional crumb topping.
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve warm and gooey with:

• A crisp green salad or steamed broccoli
• Garlic bread or Texas toast
• A cool drink like lemon iced tea or sparkling water with lime

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💡 Recipe Variations

✨ Extra Spicy Version: Add chopped jalapeños or a teaspoon of red pepper flakes.
✨ Veggie Boost: Mix in bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for color and nutrition.
✨ Tex-Mex Style: Add black beans and corn before baking, then top with cilantro.
✨ Low-Carb Option: Use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of pasta.
✨ Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

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🧊 Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking or reheating.
• Reheat: Warm individual portions in the microwave or oven. Add a splash of milk or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

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❤️ Final Thoughts

This Creamy Three-Cheese Chicken Spaghetti with a Kick is the definition of cozy comfort food — creamy, cheesy, and just spicy enough to keep things exciting. Every forkful is packed with flavor, from the tender chicken to the luscious sauce that clings to every strand of pasta.

It’s a surefire hit for family dinners, potlucks, or whenever you need a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal. One bite and you’ll see why this dish deserves a permanent spot in your recipe rotation! 🔥🧀🍗

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