Introduction and Origin
Chicken spaghetti is a classic Southern comfort dish that combines tender chicken, pasta, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. Originally created as an affordable casserole to feed a crowd, it quickly became a cherished staple at family gatherings, potlucks, and celebrations. Over the years, this recipe has earned its place at countless dinner tables, passed down and loved for its heartiness and flavor.
Cultural Significance
In the American South, casseroles represent community, comfort, and hospitality—and chicken spaghetti is no exception. Served in generous portions, it brings family and friends together around the table, embodying the warmth of home cooking and the tradition of sharing meals with loved ones.
Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie or boiled)
- 12 oz spaghetti, cooked and drained
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
Optional Additions
- 1 cup diced tomatoes or Rotel for zest
- Sautéed mushrooms with onions
- Jalapeños or green chilies for spice
- Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
Tips for Success
- Use pre-cooked chicken for convenience and tenderness.
- Cook spaghetti al dente so it holds up after baking.
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly before baking for consistent flavor.
- Cover with foil while baking to retain moisture, then uncover to brown the cheese.
- Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving to set.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic until soft.
- In a large bowl, combine chicken, spaghetti, both soups, sour cream, cheddar cheese, sautéed vegetables, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix well.
- Spread mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Top with mozzarella cheese. Cover with foil.
- Bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Remove from oven, rest 10 minutes, garnish if desired, and serve warm.
Description
This chicken spaghetti is creamy, cheesy, and loaded with savory flavor. The tender chicken blends seamlessly with spaghetti coated in a rich, velvety sauce, while vegetables add freshness and texture. Topped with golden, melted cheese, this casserole is as comforting as it is crowd-pleasing.
Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving—8 servings)
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
Conclusion & Recommendation
This famous chicken spaghetti is a tried-and-true favorite, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or busy weeknights. With its creamy sauce, cheesy topping, and hearty flavors, it’s guaranteed to be a hit every time.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
For a lighter version, try Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, reduced-fat cheese, and whole wheat spaghetti. Adding vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or broccoli not only boosts nutrition but also enhances flavor while keeping the dish wholesome and satisfying.