Name: Creamy Italian Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces Spaghetti (Cook until just under al dente.); 3 cups Cooked Chicken (Shredded or diced, leftover rotisserie works well.); 10.5 ounces Cream of Chicken Soup; 14.5 ounces Italian Diced Tomatoes (Use undrained.); 1 medium Bell Pepper (Chop finely.); 1 medium Onion (Sauté until tender.); 2 cloves Garlic (Minced.); 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (Shredded.); 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese (Shredded.); 1 cup Chicken Broth (Adjust for sauce consistency.); 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning; to taste Salt and Pepper; 1 tablespoon Fresh Herbs (Parsley or basil.); 1/2 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper (Optional for heat.)

As I stirred the pot, aromas swirling around my kitchen, the memories flooded back—family gatherings filled with laughter, chatter, and the warm embrace of comfort food. Today, I’m excited to share my take on a heartwarming dish that combines rich Southern flavors with Italian flair: Creamy Italian Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole. This dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a quick prep option for those busy weeknights. With tender chicken, creamy sauce, and gooey cheese, it’s a reminder that good food can unite us, even on our busiest days. Are you ready to make a meal that envelops your loved ones in warmth? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why is This Casserole Irresistible?

Comforting Warmth: This dish wraps you in cozy flavors, perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.
Creamy Goodness: The silky sauce blends beautifully with chicken and spaghetti, creating a heavenly texture.
Quick and Easy: With just a few steps, you can have a delicious meal on the table in under an hour!
Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone from kids to adults will love this delectable combination of Southern and Italian influences—like other favorites, French Onion Chicken and Pioneer Woman Chicken.
Versatile Additions: Throw in some vegetables or different cheeses to make it your own, ensuring it’s a hit every time!

Creamy Italian Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Ingredients

For the Casserole
• Spaghetti – The foundation of the dish; soaks up the creamy sauce. Note: Cook until just under al dente for the best texture.
• Cooked Chicken – Adds richness and heartiness; Substitution: Leftover rotisserie chicken works well; shredded or diced.
• Cream of Chicken Soup – Provides a silky, savory base for the sauce.
• Italian Diced Tomatoes – Introduces brightness and tang; use undrained for added moisture.
• Bell Pepper – Adds sweet and savory depth. Note: Chop finely for even cooking.
• Onion – Offers aromatic sweetness; sauté until tender.
• Garlic – Essential for flavor; minced for best distribution.
• Cheddar Cheese – Contributes sharpness and richness; shredded for easy melting.
• Mozzarella Cheese – Adds gooey texture; essential for the golden topping; shredded.
• Chicken Broth – Adjusts sauce consistency; too much can make the casserole soupy.
• Italian Seasoning – Enhances flavor with herbs.
• Salt and Pepper – Always season to taste for balance.

Optional Toppings
• Fresh Herbs – Garnish with parsley or basil for a burst of freshness.
• Crushed Red Pepper – A delightful kick if you want to spice it up!

This Creamy Italian Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a dish that envelops you in love and warmth, perfect for any occasion!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Italian Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions, but just until it’s slightly under al dente, about 2 minutes less than directed. Drain the pasta, then set it aside, ensuring it doesn’t stick together. The spaghetti will finish cooking in the casserole, soaking in the creamy sauce later.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
In a deep skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté the chopped onions and bell peppers for 4 to 5 minutes until they become tender and aromatic. Stir occasionally to avoid burning. Once softened, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully together.

Step 3: Simmer the Chicken Mixture
To the skillet, mix in the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, undrained Italian diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning. Stir the ingredients together thoroughly and let the mixture simmer gently for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine and the sauce to thicken slightly. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen, signaling it’s time to move on.

Step 4: Combine with Spaghetti
Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, along with half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Gently toss the pasta in the creamy mixture until all noodles are well coated and imbued with the savory flavors. The creamy sauce should cling to the spaghetti, creating a delightful, hearty interplay of textures.

Step 5: Transfer to Casserole Dish
Carefully transfer the creamy chicken spaghetti mixture into a greased large casserole dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula, ensuring an even layer that bakes to perfection. Top generously with the remaining shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, creating a deliciously melty, golden crust on top.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the casserole uncovered for about 30 minutes. Watch as it transforms; you’ll know it’s ready when the top is bubbly and golden cheese creates an irresistible crust. Allow it to cool slightly before serving, letting the flavors meld together beautifully.

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Italian Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole options are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline meal prep! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate. To maintain quality, it’s best to allow the casserole to come to room temperature before baking, which ensures an evenly cooked dish. Alternatively, you can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months; just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before cooking. When ready to serve, bake as directed, and you’ll enjoy a comforting meal that feels fresh and homemade with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Creamy Italian Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through, ensuring moisture is retained.

Freezer: You can freeze the unbaked casserole tightly wrapped for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking, allowing you to enjoy this creamy Italian Southern chicken spaghetti casserole whenever you crave comfort food.

Reheating: For best results, reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Cover with foil to prevent burning the cheese.

Pre-assembled Storage: If preparing ahead, cover the assembled casserole and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bring to room temperature before baking for even cooking.

What to Serve with Creamy Italian Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

The perfect meal deserves sides that enhance its comforting allure and elevate your dining experience.

Fresh Green Salad: A simple mix of crisp greens and a zesty lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the casserole beautifully, refreshing your palate.
Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread adds a crunchy texture; it’s irresistible when dipped into the creamy sauce, pulling the whole meal together.
Roasted Vegetables: Tossed with olive oil and Italian herbs, roasted vegetables add a warm, charred flavor that balances the casserole’s creamy goodness.
Steamed Asparagus: With a drizzle of balsamic glaze, the crisp-tender asparagus delivers an elegant touch to counter the hearty spaghetti and chicken.
Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: Fluffy and cheesy, these biscuits are perfect for sopping up the savory sauce while adding a delightful buttery flavor to your meal.
Italian Red Wine: A smooth Chianti or a bold Primitivo complements the Italian flavors in the casserole, deepening your dining experience with every sip.
Lemon Sorbet: As a light dessert, this frozen treat refreshes and cleanses your palate, making it the ideal sweet ending to a satisfying meal.

Expert Tips for Creamy Italian Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Perfect Pasta Texture: Cook spaghetti until just under al dente—this prevents mushiness during baking and maintains that delightful bite in your creamy Italian Southern chicken spaghetti casserole.
Layer with Love: When transferring to the casserole dish, ensure an even spread so every bite is packed with flavor. Don’t forget to reserve some cheese for the top!
Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Allow it to come to room temperature before baking to ensure even cooking.
Avoid Soupy Sauce: Be cautious with the chicken broth; too much can result in a watery casserole. Add just enough to achieve a creamy consistency.
Customize to Taste: Feel free to mix in additional veggies like spinach or mushrooms. This adds flavor and nutrition, making your creamy Italian Southern chicken spaghetti casserole even heartier!

Creamy Italian Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Variations

Feel free to personalize this delectable casserole to fit your taste buds and dietary needs!

Dairy-Free: Use a non-dairy cream soup and dairy-free cheese alternatives for a creamy texture without the dairy.
Whole Wheat Pasta: Swap regular spaghetti for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier twist.
Vegetable Boost: Add in spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms to elevate both the nutrition and flavor of the dish.
Heat It Up: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for those who enjoy a little kick in their casserole.
Different Proteins: Substitute chicken with ground turkey or even a plant-based protein like chickpeas or lentils for variety.
Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like basil or oregano for an aromatic flair that brightens the overall flavor.
Tomato Sauce Base: Instead of cream of chicken soup, use a marinara sauce for a tomato-based take on this comforting dish.
Cheesy Variations: Mix in different cheeses like Gouda or fontina for a unique melting experience—just imagine that gooey goodness!

No matter how you tweak this recipe, it’s bound to bring the same warm memories and delightful flavors. If you’re craving more comforting casseroles, don’t miss out on Pioneer Woman Chicken or the satisfying Mexican Chicken Casserole for your next meal!

Creamy Italian Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe FAQs

What type of spaghetti should I use for this casserole?
Absolutely! Use regular spaghetti for this recipe, as it provides the perfect texture to soak in the creamy sauce. You could also opt for whole wheat or gluten-free spaghetti if you’re looking for alternatives. Just remember to cook it until it’s slightly under al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy once baked.

How should I store leftovers of the casserole?
I recommend storing leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, a damp paper towel over the dish helps retain moisture and prevents the pasta from drying out, ensuring those comforting flavors are preserved.

Can I freeze the Creamy Italian Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole?
Very! You can freeze the assembled, unbaked casserole wrapped tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge. Bake it right from the fridge, following the original instructions, allowing an extra 5-10 minutes if needed.

What can I do if my casserole turns out too soupy?
If your casserole is a bit soupy, it’s likely due to too much chicken broth or not letting it bake long enough. For future batches, be careful with the amount of broth you add—start with less, as you can always add more if needed. If it happens, mix in a tablespoon of cornstarch dissolved in a bit of water before baking; this will help thicken the sauce.

Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
The more the merrier! Feel free to incorporate additional veggies like spinach, diced zucchini, or mushrooms. Just make sure to sauté them along with the onions and bell peppers to soften them before mixing everything together. This not only enhances flavor but also boosts nutrition, keeping everyone happy at the table!