Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
A comforting and indulgent casserole filled with creamy cheese, rotisserie chicken, and spices, perfect for family gatherings and busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked spaghetti Use whole wheat for a healthier option.
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken A quick time-saver; feel free to swap with homemade if you have the time.
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies Adds a flavorful kick; can substitute with regular diced tomatoes if you prefer less heat.
- 1 cup cream cheese For a rich, creamy texture; Greek yogurt is a lower-fat substitute.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Experiment with different cheese blends for a unique twist.
- 1 cup chicken broth For a deeper flavor; homemade broth will elevate this comfort dish even more.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder Fresh garlic creates a more vibrant flavor, but garlic powder is great for convenience.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder A staple in savory dishes for added depth; feel free to use fresh sautéed onions instead.
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning Gives it that Southern kick; adjust to your spice preference.
- to taste Salt and pepper Essential for balancing flavors.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Boil a pot of salted water and cook the spaghetti as directed on the package until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cheesy Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, Cajun seasoning, and salt and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Gently fold in the shredded rotisserie chicken and the diced tomatoes with green chilies.
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the bowl and mix until the pasta is completely coated.
Baking
- Pour the entire mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly across the top.
- Bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Consider using zucchini noodles instead of spaghetti for a low-carb version. Sneak in some veggies or seasonal ingredients to keep the dish exciting.