Chicken spaghetti casserole is a comforting dish that combines the best flavors of southern cuisine. This recipe brings together tender chicken, creamy sauce, and pasta, all baked to perfection. It makes a hearty meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Why Make This Recipe
Homemade Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a great choice for family dinners or gatherings. It’s easy to prepare and can feed a crowd. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, everyone at the table will enjoy it. Plus, you can make it ahead of time and simply bake it when needed.
How to Make Homemade Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 8 ounces spaghetti, cooked and drained
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked spaghetti, cream of mushroom soup, diced tomatoes, and milk.
- Stir in the chopped onion, bell pepper, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
How to Serve Homemade Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
You can serve this casserole warm straight from the oven. It pairs well with a side salad or some crusty bread. For extra flavor, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top before serving.
How to Store Homemade Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months. If freezing, it’s best to store it in a freezer-safe dish.
Tips to Make Homemade Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
- You can use rotisserie chicken for quicker prep.
- Feel free to add vegetables like broccoli or peas for extra nutrition.
- For a little heat, add some jalapeños or hot sauce to the mixture.
Variation
You can make a vegetarian version by replacing chicken with sautéed mushrooms or cooked lentils. Also, swap out the cream of mushroom soup for a homemade white sauce if you prefer.
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can use any cheese you like. Mozzarella or Monterey Jack would work well too.
2. Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! Just make sure to store it properly to avoid freezer burn.
3. Can I add more spices?
Yes, you can add spices like paprika, cumin, or even Italian seasoning to taste. Feel free to experiment!
Homemade Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
A comforting chicken spaghetti casserole with creamy sauce and rich flavors, perfect for family dinners.
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 8 ounces spaghetti, cooked and drained
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine the shredded chicken, cooked spaghetti, cream of mushroom soup, diced tomatoes, and milk in a large mixing bowl.
- Stir in the chopped onion, bell pepper, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
For quicker prep, use rotisserie chicken. Add vegetables like broccoli or peas for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Paleo
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
