There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, cheesy pasta dish that brings everyone together. Southern Chicken Spaghetti Bake is that cozy casserole we all need in our lives. It’s rich, hearty, and filled with flavor—a perfect weeknight meal or a great addition to family gatherings. I first stumbled upon this easy recipe during a busy phase in my life, and it quickly became a family favorite. What’s not to love about tender chicken mingling with creamy sauce and seasoned pasta, all topped with bubbling cheese?
Why make this recipe
Reasons to try it
If you’re looking for a dish that combines convenience with deliciousness, this Southern Chicken Spaghetti Bake is your answer. Not only is it quick to prepare and bake, but it also makes for a perfect family dinner after a long day. It’s budget-friendly, especially if you’ve got leftover chicken just waiting to be transformed into something remarkable. This dish also tends to be a hit with kids, making it ideal for family nights or potlucks where you want to please a crowd.
“I made this for a family gathering, and it was a hit! Everyone requested the recipe. Super easy and incredibly tasty!”
How to make Southern Chicken Spaghetti Bake
The cooking process explained
This dish is as straightforward as it gets, making it ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. You’ll simply combine cooked ingredients, transfer them to a baking dish, and let the oven do the work. Below is a quick overview of what you’ll need to gather before diving in:
- Cook your pasta and chicken ahead of time (or use leftovers).
- Mix everything in one bowl.
- Top with cheese and bake until golden.
Ingredients
Key Ingredients
To whip up this delicious bake, you’ll need the following items:
- 2 cups cooked spaghetti
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
Notes: Feel free to swap the cream of mushroom soup for a different cream soup if you’re looking for a new twist. For a healthier option, you can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt.
Directions
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, shredded chicken, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and season with salt and pepper. Toss in the chopped green bell pepper and onion until everything is well mixed.
- Transfer this delicious mixture to a greased baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Generously top with shredded cheddar and grated parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Once done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
How to serve Southern Chicken Spaghetti Bake
Best ways to enjoy it
This dish shines on its own, but feel free to elevate the meal with some simple side dishes. A fresh garden salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette pairs beautifully, as do garlic breadsticks or roasted vegetables. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with some sautéed green beans or corn on the side.
How to store
Storage and reheating tips
Leftovers of this delectable bake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you’d like to store it for a longer period, you can freeze the cooled dish. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, ensuring it’s heated through.
Tips to make
Helpful cooking tips
- For added depth of flavor, consider sautéing the onions and bell peppers before mixing them in. This will enhance their natural sweetness.
- If you want an extra kick, a dash of hot sauce or pepper flakes can amp up the spice level.
- Don’t have cooked chicken on hand? Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut.
Variations
Creative twists
Feel free to experiment with this Southern Chicken Spaghetti Bake! Some tasty variations include:
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms and additional veggies.
- Cheesy Delight: Mix in different types of cheese like mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique flavor.
- Pasta Swap: Try using penne or rotini instead of spaghetti for a fun texture change.
FAQs
Common questions
-
Can I use frozen chicken?
Absolutely! Just ensure it’s fully cooked before adding it to the dish. -
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
You can substitute with cream of chicken soup or a homemade white sauce if preferred. -
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the dish a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it just before serving. -
Is it freezer-friendly?
Yes! This dish freezes well. Just cool completely before wrapping securely. -
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Heat it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave in individual servings for a quicker option.
Conclusion
I hope this Southern Chicken Spaghetti Bake becomes a staple in your recipe collection as it has in mine. It’s comforting, satisfying, and perfect for sharing. Give it a try, and don’t hesitate to drop a comment to share your thoughts—or any delectable twists you make to this fabulous dish! Enjoy your meal!
Southern Chicken Spaghetti Bake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, shredded chicken, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and season with salt and pepper.
- Toss in the chopped green bell pepper and onion until everything is well mixed.
- Transfer this mixture to a greased baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Generously top with shredded cheddar and grated parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Once done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.