Description
Discover how to make a delicious Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole with this easy recipe. Perfect for a comforting family meal!
Ingredients
- 1 (4-lb.) whole chicken
- 4 tablespoon (60 ml) s kosher salt
- 1 bay leaf
- 8 ounce (227 g) s uncooked spaghetti
- 3 tablespoon (45 ml) s butter
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped
- .5 medium-size green pepper, coarsely chopped
- 2 celery ribs, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (10 3/4-oz.) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 (28-oz.) can diced tomatoes, drained and chopped
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) Worcestershire sauce
- 4 drops of hot sauce
- .125 teaspoon (625 ml) freshly ground black pepper
- Vegetable cooking spray
- 1 cup (240 ml) (4 oz (113 g).) shredded medium Cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: In a large pot, combine the first three ingredients and enough water to cover. Heat on high until boiling. Cover, reduce to medium-low, and let simmer for about an hour, or until the chicken is tender. Take the chicken out, keeping the broth in the pot. Allow the chicken to cool completely for around 20 minutes. Remove and discard the bay leaf. Remove the skin and bones from the chicken, and cut the meat into pieces.
- Cook the pasta: Set the oven to 350°F. Take out ¼ cup of the chicken broth and set aside. Heat the remaining broth in the pot to boiling. Break the spaghetti into three parts and cook in the broth for 12 to 15 minutes, or until it is tender; drain thoroughly, discarding the broth. Place the spaghetti back in the pot.
- Complete the casserole: In a large pan, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the onion and the next three ingredients, cooking for 5 minutes or until they soften; then add to the spaghetti. Mix the soup with the reserved ¼ cup of broth and combine with the spaghetti mixture. Mix in the chicken, tomatoes, and the next three ingredients. Season with salt to your liking. Transfer the mixture into a 13 x 9-inch baking dish that has been lightly coated with cooking spray. Sprinkle with cheese on top.
- Bake the dish: Place in the oven at 350°F and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
Notes
- Consider using whole wheat spaghetti for added fiber and nutrients.
- Customize with your favorite veggies like broccoli, mushrooms, or spinach.
- Add a spicy kick with diced tomatoes or extra hot sauce for more heat.
