There’s something about a cozy evening at home that calls for a dish that wraps you in warmth, and my Creamy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole does just that. As I prepared this rich, cheesy delight, I couldn’t help but reminisce about family gatherings where laughter enveloped the air, and plates were filled to the brim. Every bite of tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and gooey cheese transports you straight to those cherished moments.

Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen, mingling with a hint of garlic as you sauté the vegetables. This casserole is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of comfort food at its finest. Perfect for potlucks or simply a weeknight dinner, it’s a dish that comes together quickly and often tastes even better the next day. So, grab your favorite pasta, and let’s dive into this Southern classic that’s sure to delight your family and friends!

Why is Creamy Southern Chicken Spaghetti irresistible?

Comforting warmth: This casserole encapsulates the essence of Southern hospitality, making it the ultimate dish for family dinners and gatherings.

Quick preparation: With simple steps and ingredients, you can have this delicious meal ready in no time.

Cheesy goodness: Generous layers of gooey, melted cheese meld perfectly with tender chicken for an indulgent experience.

Crowd-pleaser: Whether it’s a potluck or a cozy family dinner, everyone will come back for seconds of this delightful dish.

Versatile options: You can easily swap ingredients based on what you have on hand or try using rotisserie chicken for even faster prep! Don’t miss checking out my tips for advance prep and storage so you can enjoy this dish whenever the craving strikes!

Creamy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Ingredients

For the Casserole

Pasta – Use spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine as the base for this satisfying dish.
Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs or Breasts – Chicken thighs provide more flavor, making this creamy Southern chicken spaghetti shine.
Canola, Vegetable, or Olive Oil – Oil is essential for sautéing vegetables, enhancing their flavor.
Celery, Onion, and Bell Pepper – These veggies bring texture and color; mix red and green bell peppers for a vibrant touch.
Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup – This creamy base is the heart of the sauce—make sure to use it straight from the can!
Condensed Cream of Celery Soup – Adds an extra layer of flavor that pairs beautifully with chicken.
Garlic Powder – Elevate the taste; feel free to replace it with fresh garlic for a bolder flavor.
Sour Cream – This ingredient contributes to the creaminess of the dish, enhancing its luxurious texture.
Chicken Broth – Adds moisture and depth; opt for unsalted broth for better sodium control.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Recommended to shred from a block for maximum fresh flavor and melting qualities.

Optional Toppings

Additional Cheddar or Other Cheese Varieties – Sprinkle on more cheese before baking for an extra gooey topping—the more cheese, the better!
Ground White Pepper or Cayenne Pepper – Add a touch of heat if desired for a spicy twist in your creamy Southern chicken spaghetti.

This delightful dish is not only a comforting meal but also makes for fantastic leftovers. Enjoy the warmth of home-cooked goodness with every bite!

How to Make Creamy Southern Chicken Spaghetti

Prepare the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the chicken in a greased baking dish and bake for 40-45 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. You can also boil the chicken in water until cooked; just shred it once it’s cooled.
Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat and add the chopped onion, celery, and bell peppers. Sauté them for about 15 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant, showcasing their vibrant colors.
Mix Sauce: Stir in the shredded chicken, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and sour cream with the sautéed vegetables. Cook uncovered for about 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld beautifully.
Cook Pasta: While your sauce is simmering, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain it and set aside, letting it wait for its delightful transformation.
Combine and Bake: In a greased baking dish, mix the cooked pasta with the creamy chicken mixture. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese, mix it all together, and then top with the remaining cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes, until everything is bubbly and inviting.

Optional: For an extra crispy topping, uncover the dish during the last 5 minutes of baking.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Creamy Southern Chicken Spaghetti

Chicken Choice: Choose boneless, skinless thighs for more flavor, while breasts are a leaner option. Remember, texture matters in your creamy Southern chicken spaghetti!
Sautéing Precautions: Avoid burning the vegetables by keeping your heat at medium and stirring frequently. This enhances the flavor without any bitterness.
Soup Substitution: If you prefer homemade ingredients, consider making your own cream of chicken and celery soup as a fresher alternative to canned versions.
Pasta Perfection: Cook pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy after baking. Drain and rinse to stop the cooking process before mixing.
Storage Savvy: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave for delicious results!
Cheese Lover’s Tip: For a luxurious finish, consider grating your cheddar cheese fresh from the block. A little extra cheese on top never hurts in this creamy Southern chicken spaghetti!

Creamy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Variations

Customize this delightful casserole to match your taste buds and pantry staples!

Rotisserie Chicken: Use store-bought rotisserie chicken for an even quicker prep without sacrificing flavor.
Gluten-Free Pasta: Swap out traditional pasta for gluten-free varieties like brown rice or quinoa pasta for a gluten-sensitive twist.
Vegetable Medley: Add chopped spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrients and color. They’ll blend beautifully with the creamy base!
Cheese Swap: Try Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese for a milder or spicier flavor profile; every cheese brings its own unique touch.
Heat it Up: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for an exciting kick that warms you up from the inside out.
Creamy Alternatives: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a tangy and healthy twist on creaminess.
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or basil before baking to elevate the dish with fresh, aromatic flavors.
Crispy Topping: For a crunchy texture, sprinkle crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs over the cheese before baking to create a golden crust.

Feel the joy of experimenting with these variations that will take your creamy Southern chicken spaghetti to new heights!

What to Serve with Creamy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole?

Building the perfect meal around this cozy casserole elevates family dinners into cherished gatherings filled with warmth and love.

Garlic Bread: The crunchy, golden edges of garlic bread offer a delightful contrast to the creamy casserole, perfect for mopping up every last bite.
Fresh Garden Salad: A light and crisp salad brings balance to the richness of the dish, adding refreshing flavors and textures to your table.
Roasted Green Beans: Tender, seasoned green beans provide a vibrant splash of color and earthy flavor, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Coleslaw: This tangy and crunchy slaw cuts through the richness and adds an inviting crunch, making each bite feel light and lively.
Sweet Cornbread: A slice of soft and slightly sweet cornbread pairs beautifully, complementing the casserole’s savory flavors with its own sweetness.
Peach Iced Tea: A refreshing drink, peach iced tea with its sweet and fruity notes enhances the Southern charm of your meal, encouraging second helpings.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, classic chocolate chip cookies provide a warm and nostalgic finish, rounding off the meal with sweetness and comfort.
Fruit Salad: A sweet and juicy fruit salad serves as a light, guilt-free treat that cleanses the palate after the savory casserole.

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casseroles are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance; simply assemble it as directed, then cover and refrigerate until ready to bake. Alternatively, you can sauté the vegetables and cook the chicken up to 3 days ahead, storing them in airtight containers to maintain freshness. When it’s time to serve, just mix everything with the cooked pasta and add the cheese, then bake as directed for a delightful meal that comes together effortlessly. For the best quality, avoid baking before storing, as the flavors deepen overnight, making your casserole just as delicious!

How to Store and Freeze Creamy Southern Chicken Spaghetti

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the creamy texture and savory flavors of your chicken spaghetti casserole.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 weeks. Make sure to cool it completely before freezing to prevent ice crystals.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 25-30 minutes, or microwave in individual portions for a quicker option.
Make-Ahead Tip: You can also prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge before baking. Just be sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven, so it bakes evenly!

Creamy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Recipe FAQs

What kind of pasta should I use for the Creamy Southern Chicken Spaghetti?
You can use spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine. Each type of pasta adds its unique texture, but I recommend spaghetti for its ability to hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully!

How do I store leftovers of the Creamy Southern Chicken Spaghetti?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain that creamy texture and savory flavors. For long-term storage, you can freeze the casserole for up to 3 weeks but make sure it’s completely cooled before placing it in the freezer.

Can I freeze the Creamy Southern Chicken Spaghetti?
Absolutely! To freeze, cool the casserole completely and then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 25-30 minutes until heated through.

What can I do if my chicken turns out rubbery?
Rubbery chicken often occurs from overcooking. For the best texture, be sure to bake or boil the chicken just until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. I find that baking provides a better texture. If you have leftover boiled chicken, try shredding it and mixing it with the sauce quickly to help retain moisture.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free options and ensure that the soup and broth you select are also gluten-free. There are many great alternatives available these days, so you won’t have to compromise on flavor.

Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies with this dish?
Yes! Keep in mind that the ingredients, especially the cheese and certain soups, are not suitable for pets. If anyone in your family has allergies, check the specific brands of soup and broth for potential allergens such as gluten or dairy. It’s always best to double-check before preparing meals for loved ones with dietary restrictions.

These FAQs aim to enrich your cooking experience, ensuring every bite of your Creamy Southern Chicken Spaghetti is as delightful as the last!