The Art of Ultimate Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Perfection

Perfect Chicken Cooking Mastery

Master the technique of gently poaching chicken for maximum tenderness and flavor retention.

Creamy Sauce Excellence

Learn the skill of creating smooth, flavorful sauce that binds all ingredients perfectly.

Cheese Integration Perfection

Perfect the method of incorporating cheeses for optimal melting and flavor distribution.

Casserole Assembly Technique

Master the art of layering ingredients for even cooking and perfect texture throughout.

Golden Topping Strategy

Learn optimal techniques for achieving perfectly golden, crispy casserole topping.

Southern Casserole Mastery Secrets for Perfect Chicken Spaghetti Comfort

Chicken Perfection: Don't overcook chicken during initial boiling - tender, juicy results come from gentle simmering.

Pasta Texture: Cook spaghetti just until al dente since it will continue cooking in the oven.

Cheese Quality: Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and flavor than pre-shredded varieties.

Sauce Consistency: Add chicken broth gradually to achieve perfect creamy texture without being too thin.

Make-Ahead Magic: Assemble casserole up to 24 hours ahead, just add extra 10 minutes to baking time.

Leftover Storage: Refrigerate leftovers up to 4 days or freeze individual portions up to 3 months.

Homemade Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole with Creamy Cheese Sauce

Name: Homemade Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole with Creamy Cheese Sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 65 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: For the Tender Chicken:; 3 pounds bone-in chicken breasts; 2 bay leaves; 1 large onion, quartered; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; For the Pasta Base:; 1 pound spaghetti noodles; 2 tablespoons salt; 1 tablespoon olive oil; For the Creamy Sauce:; 4 tablespoons butter; 1 large onion, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; For the Cheese Blend:; 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened; For the Creamy Components:; 1 can (10.75 oz) cream of mushroom soup; 1 can (10.75 oz) cream of chicken soup; 1 cup chicken broth (reserved from cooking); 1/2 cup heavy cream; For the Flavor Enhancers:; 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chiles, drained; 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon garlic powder

The ultimate Southern comfort food featuring tender shredded chicken, al dente spaghetti, and a rich creamy cheese sauce baked to golden perfection. This hearty casserole combines classic Southern flavors with perfectly seasoned chicken, aromatic vegetables, and a luscious blend of cheeses, creating an unforgettable family dinner that brings warmth and satisfaction to every bite. Perfect for potluck gatherings, family reunions, or any time you crave authentic Southern comfort food that feeds a crowd and creates lasting memories.

Prep Time

20 Minutes

Cook Time

45 Minutes

Total Time

65 Minutes

Chef

RUY

Ingredients

Custard Cream

For the Tender Chicken:

3 pounds bone-in chicken breasts

2 bay leaves

1 large onion, quartered

2 celery stalks, chopped

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Pasta Base:

1 pound spaghetti noodles

2 tablespoons salt

1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Creamy Sauce:

4 tablespoons butter

1 large onion, diced

1 bell pepper, diced

2 celery stalks, diced

3 garlic cloves, minced

For the Cheese Blend:

2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded

1/2 cup cream cheese, softened

For the Creamy Components:

1 can (10.75 oz) cream of mushroom soup

1 can (10.75 oz) cream of chicken soup

1 cup chicken broth (reserved from cooking)

1/2 cup heavy cream

For the Flavor Enhancers:

1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chiles, drained

2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

For the Seasoning Blend:

1 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Golden Topping:

1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs

2 tablespoons butter, melted

For the Fresh Garnish:

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Green onions for serving

For Perfect Assembly:

Cooking spray

Aluminum foil

For Special Equipment:

Large stockpot

9x13 inch baking dish

Large mixing bowl

Colander

Instructions

Place chicken breasts, bay leaves, quartered onion, chopped celery, salt, and pepper in large stockpot.

Cover chicken completely with water and bring to a boil over high heat.

Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 25-30 minutes until chicken is tender.

Remove chicken and reserve 2 cups of cooking broth, strain and set aside.

Allow chicken to cool, then shred into bite-sized pieces, discarding skin and bones.

Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente, drain well.

Preheat oven to 350°F and spray 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.

Melt butter in large skillet over medium heat for vegetable sauté.

Add diced onion, bell pepper, and celery, cook 5-7 minutes until softened.

Stir in minced garlic and cook additional minute until fragrant.

Add cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and reserved chicken broth.

Whisk in heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, and all seasonings until smooth.

Stir in diced tomatoes with green chiles and softened cream cheese.

Add shredded chicken to sauce mixture and simmer 5 minutes to blend flavors.

In large mixing bowl, combine cooked spaghetti with chicken mixture.

Add half of the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, toss to distribute evenly.

Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish, spreading evenly throughout.

Top with remaining cheeses, then sprinkle with panko breadcrumbs.

Drizzle melted butter over breadcrumb topping for golden finish.

Cover with foil and bake 25 minutes, then remove foil.

Continue baking 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Let casserole rest 10 minutes before serving to set properly.

Garnish with fresh parsley and green onions before serving.

Serve hot with cornbread or garlic bread for complete Southern meal.

Homemade Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole with Creamy Cheese Sauce

RUY

Essential Ingredients Selection

Creating Your Masterpiece

The Art of Ultimate Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Perfection

Homemade Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole with Creamy Cheese Sauce

Ingredients

Instructions