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Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Start by cooking the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
If you haven’t already, cook and shred or cube your chicken. You can use leftover chicken, rotisserie chicken, or cook fresh chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe. Shredded chicken is ideal because it blends well with the creamy sauce, but cubed chicken works just as well if you prefer more texture.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until smooth and well combined. The sour cream adds a tangy richness, while the cream of chicken soup forms the creamy base of the sauce. If you like a bit of heat, feel free to add the diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel) to the mix for extra flavor and spice.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
To the creamy sauce, add in your cooked chicken and spaghetti. Stir everything together until the chicken and pasta are evenly coated with the creamy mixture. Be sure to scrape the bottom of the bowl to fully incorporate the sauce.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
Next, fold in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese (save a little for topping) into the casserole mixture. This will melt into the sauce, giving the casserole that signature cheesy flavor. If you prefer a gooey, melty casserole, feel free to add more cheese!
Step 6: Assemble the Casserole
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Transfer the chicken and pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top, followed by the Parmesan cheese if you’re using it. This will create a golden, bubbly crust once baked.
Step 7: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly and the casserole is heated through. If you like a crispy top, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes, but keep a close eye on it to avoid burning the cheese.
Step 8: Serve
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This gives the sauce time to set, making it easier to cut into neat slices. Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker prep time, grab a rotisserie chicken from the store. It saves you time on cooking the chicken and adds extra flavor to the casserole.
- Make it Spicy: If you like a bit of heat, stir in some chopped jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or use spicy diced tomatoes instead of the regular ones. This will give your casserole a delightful kick.
- Add Veggies: Sneak in some veggies for added nutrition. Try adding sautéed onions, bell peppers, or even frozen peas to the mix for extra flavor and color.
- Top with Extra Cheese: You can never have too much cheese! For an extra cheesy crust, sprinkle more shredded cheese on top before baking.
- Make Ahead: This casserole is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare it the night before, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate it overnight. When ready to bake, just pop it in the oven for a longer bake time (around 40 minutes, since it’s chilled).
- Freezer-Friendly: This casserole also freezes well. Simply assemble it in the baking dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, bake from frozen (adding 10-15 extra minutes to the bake time) or thaw overnight in the fridge.
Why You’ll Keep Coming Back to This Recipe
Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is the epitome of comfort food. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with savory flavors that will make you feel like you’ve been transported to a Southern kitchen. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, hosting a potluck, or just craving something warm and satisfying, this casserole is sure to be a hit. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll find yourself making it again and again.
The best part? It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s customizable to fit your tastes. From adding extra veggies to tweaking the spice level, this casserole can be adapted to suit your preferences while still delivering the same rich, cheesy goodness.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a delicious, no-fuss meal that’s guaranteed to please, Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is your answer. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and melty cheese, this casserole checks all the boxes for comfort food. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or any time you want a satisfying meal that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy.
Give it a try, and prepare to be wowed by how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special.
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