Introduction to Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Welcome to the heart of comfort food! If you’re looking for a dish that wraps you in warmth and nostalgia, the Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is just the ticket. This creamy delight combines tender chicken and spaghetti in a rich, cheesy sauce that’s sure to impress your loved ones. Whether you’re juggling a busy weeknight or hosting a cozy gathering, this casserole is a quick solution that brings everyone together. Trust me, once you serve this dish, it’ll become a cherished favorite in your home, just like it is in mine!
Why You’ll Love This Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
This Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a lifesaver for busy cooks like me! It’s incredibly easy to whip up, taking just 45 minutes from start to finish. The creamy, cheesy goodness is a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s a one-dish wonder, making cleanup a breeze. You’ll love how it warms the soul and brings smiles to the dinner table!
Ingredients Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delicious Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Cooked chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken works wonders here, saving you time and effort.
- Spaghetti: Use uncooked spaghetti for the perfect texture. It absorbs the sauce beautifully.
- Olive oil or butter: This adds richness and helps sauté the veggies to perfection.
- Onion: Diced onion brings a sweet, aromatic base to the dish.
- Green bell pepper: Adds a pop of color and a slight crunch, balancing the creaminess.
- Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the casserole with a delightful flavor that’s hard to resist.
- Cream of mushroom soup: This is the heart of the creamy sauce, providing depth and richness.
- Cream of chicken soup: It complements the mushroom soup, enhancing the overall flavor.
- Rotel tomatoes with green chilies: These add a zesty kick and a touch of heat, making the dish exciting.
- Chicken broth: Use this to adjust the sauce’s consistency. You can also reserve pasta water for a similar effect.
- Spices: Paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if you like it spicy) elevate the flavor profile.
- Salt & pepper: Essential for seasoning, ensuring every bite is delicious.
- Cheddar cheese: Shredded cheddar adds a gooey, melty layer on top that’s simply irresistible.
- Monterey Jack cheese: This cheese brings a mild flavor and extra creaminess to the mix.
- Sour cream: It adds tanginess and creaminess, making the sauce even richer.
- Cream cheese: Optional, but it takes the creaminess to a whole new level.
- Crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs: These are optional but provide a delightful crunch on top.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything you need for printing. Happy cooking!
How to Make Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making this Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a creamy, cheesy dish that’s sure to impress.
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Start by boiling a pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling, add the uncooked spaghetti. Cook it until it’s al dente, which means it should still have a little bite to it. This is crucial because the spaghetti will continue to cook in the oven. Don’t forget to reserve about half a cup of pasta water before draining! This starchy water can help adjust the sauce’s consistency later.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat up some olive oil or butter over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and green bell pepper. Sauté them for about 4 to 5 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. This step builds a flavorful base for your Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
Now it’s time to create that creamy sauce! Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and the undrained Rotel tomatoes. Sprinkle in the spices: paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper if you’re feeling adventurous. Let this mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows all those flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 4: Mix in Chicken and Cheeses
Next, add the shredded chicken to the sauce. Then, mix in the sour cream and both cheeses—cheddar and Monterey Jack. Stir until everything is well combined and creamy. This is where the magic happens! The sauce should be rich and inviting, making you want to dive right in.
Step 5: Combine with Spaghetti
Now, it’s time to bring it all together. Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce mixture and toss gently until every strand is coated in that luscious sauce. Once it’s well mixed, transfer everything into a greased 9×13 casserole dish. It’s starting to look like a meal already!
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Finally, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top. If you want an extra crunch, feel free to add crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter. Bake your casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s hot and bubbly, and the cheese is beautifully melted. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving, and enjoy the deliciousness!
Tips for Success
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time and add flavor.
- Don’t skip reserving pasta water; it’s a lifesaver for sauce consistency.
- Feel free to adjust spices to suit your taste—more cayenne for heat!
- Let the casserole rest before serving; it helps the flavors meld.
- For a creamier texture, add extra cream cheese or sour cream.
Equipment Needed
- Large pot: For boiling spaghetti. A deep skillet can work too.
- Skillet: A large skillet for sautéing vegetables. A Dutch oven is a great alternative.
- Casserole dish: A 9×13 dish is ideal. Any oven-safe dish will do.
- Mixing spoon: A sturdy spoon for combining ingredients. A spatula works well too.
- Measuring cups: For accurate ingredient portions. You can use a kitchen scale if needed.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Use hot Rotel tomatoes or add extra cayenne pepper for a fiery twist.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with sautéed mushrooms or a mix of your favorite veggies.
- Cheese Swap: Try Pepper Jack cheese for a spicier flavor or use mozzarella for a milder taste.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diners.
- Low-Fat Version: Opt for low-fat cream soups and reduced-fat cheese to lighten it up.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Salad: Pair with a fresh garden salad for a refreshing crunch.
- Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Drink Pairing: A chilled iced tea or lemonade complements the dish perfectly.
- Presentation: Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color.
FAQs about Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Can I make Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just cover it tightly with foil. When you’re ready to bake, pop it in the oven straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I substitute for the cream soups?
If you prefer a homemade touch, you can make a simple white sauce using butter, flour, and milk. This will give you a similar creamy texture without the canned soups. Just season it well!
Can I freeze Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole?
Yes! This casserole is freezer-friendly. Assemble it, cover tightly, and freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, bake from frozen at 350°F for about 50–55 minutes.
How can I make this dish spicier?
For a spicy kick, use hot Rotel tomatoes or add extra cayenne pepper to the sauce. You can also mix in some diced jalapeños for an extra layer of heat!
What sides pair well with Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole?
This casserole is delicious on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad or some warm garlic bread. A side of steamed veggies can also balance out the meal nicely.
Final Thoughts
Cooking the Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating memories. The creamy, cheesy goodness brings warmth to the table, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Each bite is a hug from the inside, reminding us of home and comfort. I love how this dish can be easily customized to suit any palate, making it a versatile favorite. So, gather your loved ones, serve up this delightful casserole, and watch as smiles light up the room. Trust me, it’s a dish that will be cherished for years to come!
Print
Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole: A Creamy Delight!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Comfort Food
Description
A creamy and delicious Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole that combines tender chicken, spaghetti, and a rich sauce topped with cheese.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded, rotisserie works great)
- 12 oz spaghetti (uncooked)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel tomatoes with green chilies (undrained)
- 1 cup chicken broth (or reserved pasta water)
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or mozzarella)
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp cream cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
- Crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs mixed with 2 tbsp melted butter (optional)
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti in salted water until al dente (a little firm). Drain and set aside (reserve ½ cup pasta water if you don’t have broth).
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add onion and bell pepper; sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in cream of mushroom, cream of chicken, Rotel, chicken broth, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt & pepper. Let simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in shredded chicken, sour cream, cream cheese (if using), 1 cup cheddar, and Monterey Jack. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Add cooked spaghetti to the sauce mixture and toss until well coated. Transfer mixture to a greased 9×13 casserole dish.
- Sprinkle remaining 1 cup cheddar cheese on top. (Optional) Add buttery cracker crumbs or breadcrumbs for crunch. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, until hot and bubbly.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley or green onions if desired.
Notes
- For spice: Use hot Rotel or add extra cayenne.
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Swap cheeses: Pepper Jack for spice, mozzarella for a milder flavor.
- Freezer-friendly: Assemble casserole, cover tightly, and freeze up to 2 months. Bake from frozen at 350°F for 50–55 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
