Savory Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

Welcome to my kitchen! I’m excited to share my Savory Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole recipe with you. This dish is easy, tasty, and perfect for family dinners. You’ll love how we use simple ingredients to create a big flavor. Plus, I’ll share tips on choosing fresh veggies and the magic of rotisserie chicken. Let’s get cooking and turn a few staples into a comforting meal your family will ask for again and again!

Ingredients

List of Ingredients for Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

– 2 cups cooked spaghetti

– 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken

– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup

– 1 cup chicken broth

– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

– 1 cup diced tomatoes with green chilies (canned)

– 1 small onion, finely chopped

– 1 bell pepper, chopped (red or green)

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 teaspoon onion powder

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1 teaspoon paprika

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Tips for Selecting Fresh Ingredients

When picking ingredients, freshness matters. Here are some tips:

– Vegetables: Choose firm bell peppers and onions. Look for bright colors.

– Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for ease. Check that it’s moist and flavorful.

– Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes should have no added sugar.

– Cheese: Get block cheese and shred it yourself. It melts better.

– Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth for a balanced flavor.

Importance of Rotisserie Chicken in the Recipe

Rotisserie chicken saves time and adds great taste. Here’s why it shines:

– Flavor: It is usually seasoned well. This enhances the dish.

– Convenience: No need to cook chicken from scratch. Just shred and add.

– Texture: It stays moist, making your casserole creamy and rich.

Using rotisserie chicken makes this recipe quick and delicious.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepping the Ingredients

Start by gathering your ingredients. You need two cups of cooked spaghetti, two cups of shredded rotisserie chicken, and a can of cream of chicken soup. Don’t forget the chicken broth, shredded cheddar cheese, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Also, grab a small onion, a bell pepper, garlic, and your spices. Chop the onion and bell pepper finely. Mince the garlic. This step makes cooking easier.

Cooking the Vegetables

Next, heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté these until they turn translucent, which takes about five to seven minutes. This step brings out the flavors in your veggies. You can smell the aroma filling your kitchen. It makes the dish even more inviting.

Assembling the Casserole

Now, grab a large mixing bowl. Combine the cooked spaghetti, shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and diced tomatoes. Add the sautéed veggies, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well. Once combined, grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish. Pour the mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly. Top with shredded cheddar cheese. Now, it’s ready for the oven!

The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C). Bake your casserole for about 30 to 35 minutes. It’s done when it’s bubbly and the cheese is golden brown. After baking, let it cool for five minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy every bite!

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Bake Time

Bake your Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole at 350°F for 30 to 35 minutes. The key is to check the edges. If they bubble, your dish is ready. You want the cheese golden, not burnt. If it looks pale, give it a few more minutes. Always let it cool for five minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes it easier to cut.

Ensuring Even Heating

To heat your casserole evenly, spread the mixture in the dish smoothly. Use a spatula to press it down gently. This helps all parts cook the same. Halfway through baking, you can rotate the dish. This helps it cook evenly, especially if your oven has hot spots. If you see bubbles rising, it’s a good sign!

Cheese Melting Techniques

For the best cheese melt, use freshly shredded cheddar. Pre-shredded cheese can have additives that prevent melting well. Spread the cheese evenly on top before baking. If you want extra gooeyness, add a little more cheese. If you like a crispy topping, broil it for the last few minutes. Just watch it closely to avoid burning.

Variations

Vegetarian Options for the Casserole

To make this casserole vegetarian, you can swap the chicken for veggies. Use 2 cups of cooked mushrooms or zucchini. You can also add black beans for protein. Replace the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup. This keeps the dish creamy and rich. Don’t forget to add extra spices to boost flavor!

Spice Levels: Adjusting Heat with Ingredients

Want some heat? You can spice up your casserole with diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper. If you prefer it mild, skip the hot ingredients. For a balanced flavor, you can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper. Adjusting the spices will change the dish’s taste, so feel free to experiment!

Alternative Sides to Pair with Casserole

Pair your casserole with easy sides for a complete meal. A simple green salad adds freshness. Garlic bread brings a nice crunch and flavor. You might also enjoy steamed broccoli or green beans as a side. These options create a well-rounded dinner that everyone will love!

Storage Information

How to Properly Store Leftovers

To store your Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole, let it cool first. Place leftovers in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to cover it well to keep it fresh.

Reheating Tips for Best Results

When reheating, use the oven for best taste. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the casserole in a baking dish. Add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist. Cover it with foil to prevent it from drying out. Heat for about 20-25 minutes. You want it hot all the way through.

Freezing the Casserole: Do’s and Don’ts

You can freeze this casserole for a later meal. To freeze, let it cool completely. Place it in a freezer-safe container. Label it with the date for easy tracking. It will stay good for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Then, reheat it in the oven. Do not freeze it after baking, as it can become mushy.

FAQs

Can I Make Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can make this casserole ahead of time. Prepare the dish up to the baking step. Cover it and store it in the fridge for one day. When you’re ready, bake it straight from the fridge. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the bake time.

What Can I Substitute for Cream of Chicken Soup?

If you don’t have cream of chicken soup, use cream of mushroom soup. You can also mix sour cream with chicken broth. Another option is to make a simple white sauce with butter, flour, and milk. Each choice will give the dish a nice flavor.

How Do I Know When the Casserole is Done?

The casserole is done when it bubbles and the cheese is golden brown. You can check with a knife. Insert it into the center; it should come out hot. If it is not hot, bake for a few more minutes.

Is Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Freezer-Friendly?

Yes, this casserole is freezer-friendly. Let it cool to room temperature first. Then, wrap it well in plastic wrap or foil. You can keep it in the freezer for up to three months. When you want to eat it, thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking.

You now have a tasty Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole recipe to impress your family. We discussed the key ingredients, tips for freshness, and the role of rotisserie chicken. I shared easy steps for prep and cooking, plus useful tips for baking and melting cheese. We explored fun variations, storage methods, and answered common questions. Enjoy this dish full of flavor and comfort. Remember, you can easily adapt it to fit your need