Name: Southern Chicken Spaghetti BAKE: Easy Recipe Delight!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti pasta (broken into thirds before cooking); 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (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) Rotel tomatoes with green chilies, undrained; 1 small onion, finely diced; ½ cup green bell pepper, finely diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided); ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup chicken broth (or more if you like it creamier); 1 tsp seasoned salt (or regular salt, to taste); ½ tsp black pepper; ½ tsp paprika; ½ tsp garlic powder; 2 tbsp butter or olive oil (for sautéing); Optional: chopped parsley or green onions for garnish

Introduction to Southern Chicken Spaghetti Bake

Hey there, fellow food lovers! If you’re looking for a dish that wraps you in a warm hug, let me introduce you to my Southern Chicken Spaghetti Bake. This recipe is a delightful blend of tender chicken, creamy soups, and cheesy goodness that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. It’s not just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings everyone together. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving something hearty, this dish is your go-to solution. Trust me, your loved ones will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Southern Chicken Spaghetti Bake

This Southern Chicken Spaghetti Bake is a lifesaver for busy cooks like me. It’s quick to prepare, taking just about 15 minutes of hands-on time. The flavors meld beautifully as it bakes, creating a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser! With cheesy goodness and tender chicken, it’s sure to impress even the pickiest eaters at your table. What’s not to love?

Ingredients for Southern Chicken Spaghetti Bake

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun of cooking! For this Southern Chicken Spaghetti Bake, you’ll need a mix of pantry staples and fresh items that come together to create a comforting masterpiece.

Spaghetti pasta: The backbone of this dish, broken into thirds for easy mixing and baking.
Cooked chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken works wonders here, saving you time and adding flavor.
Cream of mushroom soup: This adds a rich, creamy texture and earthy flavor to the bake.
Cream of chicken soup: It complements the mushroom soup, enhancing the overall creaminess.
Rotel tomatoes with green chilies: These bring a zesty kick and a pop of color to the dish.
Onion: Finely diced, it adds sweetness and depth to the flavor profile.
Green bell pepper: This adds a crunchy texture and a fresh taste that balances the creaminess.
Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the dish with aromatic goodness that’s hard to resist.
Cheddar cheese: A must-have for that gooey, melty topping that everyone loves.
mozzarella cheese: This adds an extra layer of creaminess and stretchiness to the bake.
Chicken broth: Use this to adjust the creaminess; it’s the secret to a luscious sauce.
Seasoned salt: This enhances the flavors, but regular salt works just as well.
Black pepper: A dash of this adds a subtle heat that rounds out the flavors.
Paprika: It gives a hint of smokiness and a beautiful color to the dish.
Garlic powder: For those who can’t get enough garlic flavor, this is a must!
Butter or olive oil: Used for sautéing the veggies, it adds richness to the dish.
Optional garnishes: Chopped parsley or green onions can brighten up your plate and add a fresh touch.

For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy cooking!

How to Make Southern Chicken Spaghetti Bake

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making this Southern Chicken Spaghetti Bake! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal that’s sure to impress.

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling like a hot spring, toss in your spaghetti. Cook it until it’s just al dente, which means it should still have a little bite to it. Remember, it will continue cooking in the oven! Drain the spaghetti and set it aside while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat up some butter or olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté these veggies for about five minutes, or until they’re softened and fragrant. This step is crucial; it builds the flavor base for your Southern Chicken Spaghetti Bake!

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce Mixture

In a big mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and undrained Rotel tomatoes. Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the seasoned salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Stir in the sautéed veggies, shredded chicken, and 1 ½ cups of cheddar cheese. Mix everything until it’s well combined and creamy. This sauce is the heart of your dish!

Step 4: Combine and Transfer to Baking Dish

Now, it’s time to bring it all together! Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce mixture and stir gently until every noodle is coated in that creamy goodness. Pour everything into a 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top it off with the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese and ½ cup of mozzarella. This cheesy layer is what dreams are made of!

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and pop the baking dish in. Bake it uncovered for about 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s hot, bubbly, and the cheese is golden brown. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone asking, “What’s cooking?”

Tips for Success

Don’t overcook the spaghetti; it should be al dente since it will bake further.
Feel free to add extra veggies like broccoli or mushrooms for a nutritious boost.
For a spicier kick, toss in some red pepper flakes or jalapeños.
Mix different cheeses for a unique flavor—try a Velveeta and cheddar combo!
Let the dish sit for a few minutes after baking for easier serving.

Equipment Needed

Large pot: For boiling spaghetti. A deep skillet can work too.
Skillet: To sauté vegetables. A saucepan is a good alternative.
Mixing bowl: For combining ingredients. Any large bowl will do.
Baking dish: A 9×13-inch dish is ideal, but any oven-safe dish works.
Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accuracy, but eyeballing can work in a pinch!

Variations of Southern Chicken Spaghetti Bake

Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms or a mix of your favorite veggies like zucchini and spinach for a hearty meatless option.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture for a fiery twist that’ll wake up your taste buds.
Cheesy Delight: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy flavor or gouda for a smoky touch.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Leftover Turkey: Perfect for post-holiday meals, substitute shredded turkey for chicken to create a delicious Thanksgiving-inspired bake.

Serving Suggestions for Southern Chicken Spaghetti Bake

Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the bake.
Garlic Bread: Serve warm, buttery garlic bread for a delightful crunch alongside your dish.
Wine Pairing: A chilled white wine, like Chardonnay, enhances the flavors beautifully.
Presentation: Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness.

FAQs about Southern Chicken Spaghetti Bake

As I’ve shared my love for this Southern Chicken Spaghetti Bake, I often get questions from fellow home cooks. Here are some of the most common queries I’ve encountered, along with my answers to help you on your culinary journey!

Can I use different types of pasta for this Southern Chicken Spaghetti Bake?

Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional, you can use penne, rotini, or any pasta shape you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

How can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the Southern Chicken Spaghetti Bake up to a day in advance. Just assemble it, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Can I freeze leftovers of the Southern Chicken Spaghetti Bake?

Yes! This dish freezes well. Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to three months. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.

What can I serve with Southern Chicken Spaghetti Bake?

Pair it with a fresh side salad, garlic bread, or even some roasted vegetables. The options are endless, and they all complement the dish beautifully!

Is this Southern Chicken Spaghetti Bake suitable for gluten-free diets?

Definitely! Just swap out the regular spaghetti for gluten-free pasta, and you’re good to go. It’s a comforting meal that everyone can enjoy!

Final Thoughts

Cooking this Southern Chicken Spaghetti Bake is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating memories around the dinner table. The aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes is like a warm invitation to gather and share stories. Each bite is a comforting reminder of home, making it perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers with friends. I love how this dish brings everyone together, sparking laughter and joy. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and enjoy the delightful experience of sharing this delicious Southern Chicken Spaghetti Bake with your loved ones!

“`