Why Make This Recipe
This Creamy & Cozy Homemade Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is perfect for busy weeknights when you want comfort food that is easy to make. It combines tender pasta, flavorful chicken, and cheesy goodness into one hearty dish. The creamy texture and a hint of spice from the diced tomatoes make this casserole a family favorite. Plus, using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds convenience.
How to Make Creamy & Cozy Homemade Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 lb spaghetti noodles, broken in half
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon butter
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup chicken broth or pasta water, if needed
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Boil the spaghetti noodles until they are al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, melt the butter and cook the chopped onion until soft, about 3–4 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, sautéed onion, diced tomatoes with chilies, garlic powder, and 1½ cups of cheese. Mix well.
- Stir in the shredded chicken and spaghetti. If the mixture is too thick, add chicken broth or pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with the remaining cheese.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until it is bubbly and golden.
- Enjoy hot and cheesy straight from the oven!
How to Serve Creamy & Cozy Homemade Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
This casserole is great served with a simple side salad or some garlic bread. It’s a complete meal on its own and can be a wonderful centerpiece for family dinners.
How to Store Creamy & Cozy Homemade Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the casserole for up to 2 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to the freezer.
Tips to Make Creamy & Cozy Homemade Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
- For an extra kick, consider adding a few jalapeños to the mixture.
- Use more or less cheese based on your preference.
- Make sure not to overcook the spaghetti; it’s best when slightly firm since it will continue to cook in the oven.
Variation
You can add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for more nutrition. A sprinkle of Italian seasoning can also enhance the flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use any type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, but spaghetti works best for a traditional casserole look.
2. Can I prepare the casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, keep it covered in the fridge, and bake it on the day you plan to serve it.
3. What can I serve with the casserole?
Pair it with a salad, breadsticks, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Creamy & Cozy Homemade Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: None
Description
A comforting and creamy chicken spaghetti casserole perfect for busy weeknights, featuring rotisserie chicken, pasta, and cheesy goodness.
Ingredients
- 1 lb spaghetti noodles, broken in half
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon butter
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup chicken broth or pasta water, if needed
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Boil the spaghetti noodles until they are al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, melt the butter and cook the chopped onion until soft, about 3–4 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, sautéed onion, diced tomatoes with chilies, garlic powder, and 1½ cups of cheese. Mix well.
- Stir in the shredded chicken and spaghetti. If the mixture is too thick, add chicken broth or pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with the remaining cheese.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until it is bubbly and golden.
- Enjoy hot and cheesy straight from the oven!
Notes
Great served with a simple side salad or garlic bread. For an extra kick, consider adding jalapeños. Feel free to add more or less cheese based on preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern