Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole: A Comfort Food Classic

There’s nothing quite like a Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole to bring comfort, warmth, and flavor to the dinner table. This dish blends tender chicken, creamy sauces, spaghetti pasta, and melted cheese into one hearty casserole that feels like a hug in every bite. Growing up, casseroles were always the centerpiece of family gatherings, and this southern classic continues to be a staple recipe that never goes out of style.

Unlike traditional spaghetti dishes, this version layers creamy goodness with a touch of southern flair—perfect for potlucks, church suppers, or weeknight family meals. The best part? It’s budget-friendly, makes use of pantry staples, and reheats beautifully (leftovers might even taste better the next day). If you’ve ever craved a meal that’s both indulgent and easy to prepare, this recipe will quickly earn a top spot in your rotation.

This casserole is not just food—it’s a tradition. The rich, cheesy sauce clings to every strand of spaghetti, while tender chicken pieces add protein and heartiness. A final bake in the oven transforms it into a golden, bubbly masterpiece that feeds a crowd without breaking a sweat. Whether you’re new to southern cooking or already a fan of casseroles, this recipe will win you over from the very first forkful.

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What Makes This Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Special?

• Rich, creamy flavor: Unlike regular spaghetti, this casserole uses a creamy base that keeps every bite moist and comforting.

• Perfect for crowds: One pan can feed a family of six or be stretched further with sides, making it ideal for gatherings.

• Make-ahead friendly: Prepare the casserole up to a day in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready.

• Customizable ingredients: Swap in vegetables, spice it up with jalapeños, or lighten it with whole wheat pasta.

• Golden cheesy topping: A layer of gooey, melted cheddar and mozzarella gives it that irresistible crust.

This dish is the definition of comfort food. It’s practical, delicious, and saves time while keeping the whole family happy.

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Ingredient Notes

• Chicken: Cooked and shredded chicken breast works best. Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut.

• Spaghetti: Use regular spaghetti, but angel hair or linguine can also work. Don’t overcook; keep it slightly firm.

• Cream of mushroom & cream of chicken soup: These add richness and depth. If you prefer, make a homemade white sauce.

• Chicken broth: Helps loosen the mixture while keeping it flavorful.

• Onion & bell pepper: Adds color, texture, and a hint of sweetness.

• Shredded cheese: A mix of cheddar and mozzarella gives the best balance of flavor and meltiness.

• Seasonings: Garlic powder, black pepper, and paprika add a southern kick.

• Optional extras: Diced tomatoes with green chilies for spice, or mushrooms for earthy flavor.

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How To Make Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

1. Cook the pasta: Boil spaghetti in salted water until al dente (about 8–9 minutes). Drain and set aside.

2. Prep the chicken: Shred pre-cooked chicken or dice a rotisserie chicken for convenience.

3. Sauté the veggies: In a skillet, cook onions and bell peppers with a splash of oil until softened (5 minutes).

4. Mix the sauce: In a large bowl, combine soups, chicken broth, seasonings, veggies, and half the cheese. Stir until smooth.

5. Combine everything: Add chicken and cooked spaghetti into the sauce mixture. Mix well to coat evenly.

6. Assemble casserole: Transfer into a greased 9×13 baking dish. Top with remaining cheese.

7. Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

8. Cool slightly & serve: Let it rest 5 minutes before slicing so it holds together.

(Tip: Cover with foil during the first 20 minutes if you prefer a softer top layer.)

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Storage Options

• Room temperature: Don’t leave out longer than 2 hours.

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container up to 4 days.

• Freezing: Assemble unbaked casserole, wrap tightly, and freeze up to 3 months. Bake from frozen at 350°F for about 1 hour.

• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 325°F for 15–20 minutes or microwave individual portions for 2–3 minutes.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Spicy twist: Add diced jalapeños or pepper jack cheese.

• Veggie-loaded: Mix in peas, corn, or broccoli for extra nutrients.

• Low-carb: Swap spaghetti with spaghetti squash or zucchini noodles.

• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and soups.

• Tex-Mex style: Add taco seasoning, black beans, and top with cilantro.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this ahead of time?
   Yes! Assemble, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

2. What’s the best chicken to use?
   Shredded rotisserie chicken is easiest, but baked chicken breasts work too.

3. Why is my casserole dry?
   Make sure not to overcook spaghetti and add enough broth to keep it creamy.

4. Can I freeze leftovers?
   Yes, freeze baked portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months.

5. What cheeses work best?
   Cheddar and mozzarella melt beautifully, but Monterey Jack or Colby work too.

6. Can I add spice?
   Absolutely—use cayenne, chili flakes, or a can of Rotel tomatoes.

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Conclusion

Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate southern comfort food—creamy, cheesy, hearty, and perfect for feeding a family. Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner, a potluck dish, or a freezer meal for busy nights, this recipe delivers every time. Try it once, and it just might become your go-to casserole.

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