There’s something downright magical about Southern Chicken Spaghetti. Imagine tender chicken mingling with creamy sauce, all nestled in a bed of spaghetti that’s just begging to be twirled on your fork. The aromas wafting through the kitchen are enough to make anyone stop in their tracks and ask, “What’s cooking?” This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that warms the soul and satisfies the palate. For more inspiration, check out this more main dish recipes recipe.
Growing up in the South, I have fond memories of family gatherings where this delightful dish made its grand appearance. It graced our dinner table during everything from Sunday potlucks to holiday feasts. Each bite is a comforting reminder of home, laughter, and a sprinkle of love that makes every occasion special. So grab your apron and let’s dive into this mouthwatering adventure together! For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes collection recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Southern Chicken Spaghetti recipe is simple to prepare, making weeknight dinners stress-free
- With its rich flavor profile, it’s sure to impress friends and family alike
- The vibrant colors from bell peppers and cheese make it visually appealing on any table
- Perfect for cozy family nights or festive gatherings, this dish is versatile enough for any occasion
I vividly remember serving Southern Chicken Spaghetti at my best friend’s wedding reception—everyone went back for seconds!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work well; adjust based on your guest list size.
Spaghetti: Use any pasta you love; spaghetti is traditional but feel free to explore!
Bell Peppers: Choose vibrant colors like red and green for a pop of freshness.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness when sautéed; yellow onions are my go-to.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring a punch of flavor; crush them for maximum aroma.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This is the heart of the sauce; opt for low-fat if desired.
Shredded Cheese: Cheddar or Monterey Jack works well for that ooey-gooey goodness.
Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth helps control saltiness while adding depth to flavors.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all those scrumptious flavors.
Olive Oil: Use this for sautéing; it adds richness without overwhelming the dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare the Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients and chopping the bell peppers and onion into small pieces. This will make cooking smoother as you go.
Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add diced chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through.
Add Vegetables: Toss in the chopped onions and bell peppers with your chicken. Sauté until the vegetables soften and release their sweet aroma – about 5-7 minutes should do.
Mix in Sauces and Broth: Pour in the cream of mushroom soup along with chicken broth. Stir until everything is well combined; let it simmer gently while you prepare your pasta.
Cook Your Spaghetti: In a separate pot, boil salted water and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain pasta but save some pasta water!
Combine Everything Together!: Gently fold cooked spaghetti into your chicken mixture, adding reserved pasta water if necessary to reach desired consistency. Top with shredded cheese before serving – let it melt into perfection!
Now you’re armed with all you need to whip up this delightful Southern Chicken Spaghetti! Enjoy each flavorful bite as you reminisce about those cherished gatherings filled with laughter and delicious food!
You Must Know
- Southern Chicken Spaghetti combines comfort and flavor, making it an unforgettable family meal
- The blend of spices and creamy sauce creates a heavenly aroma that fills your kitchen
- It’s versatile enough for a cozy dinner or a festive gathering, satisfying everyone at the table
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken to lock in flavor, then cook the pasta while preparing a rich sauce. This method ensures everything is hot and ready at once.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap chicken for turkey or add your favorite veggies like bell peppers or spinach. Customize with different cheeses for extra creaminess.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality chicken for better flavor; it makes a significant difference
- Don’t overcook the pasta, as it will continue cooking in the sauce
- Always taste before serving; adjust seasoning to your preference for maximum flavor
Sometimes, I still remember the first time I made this dish—a cozy family dinner where everyone went back for seconds and thirds!
FAQ
What can I substitute for chicken in Southern Chicken Spaghetti?
Try using turkey or even shredded rotisserie chicken for quicker preparation.
How do I make Southern Chicken Spaghetti spicier?
Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to enhance the heat level.
Can I freeze leftover Southern Chicken Spaghetti?
Yes, freeze it in portions for up to three months; defrost before reheating.
Southern Chicken Spaghetti
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Southern Chicken Spaghetti is a comforting, creamy dish that brings together tender chicken and vibrant vegetables, all tossed with perfectly cooked spaghetti. This family favorite is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Ideal for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings, it’s a delightful blend of nostalgia and satisfaction that warms the soul.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 1 cup bell peppers (diced, mixed colors)
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 10.5 oz cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients by dicing the bell peppers and onion.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 7-10 minutes.
- Add chopped onions and bell peppers to the skillet; sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in cream of mushroom soup and chicken broth. Let simmer while cooking pasta.
- Boil salted water in a separate pot and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain pasta but reserve some pasta water.
- Combine cooked spaghetti with the chicken mixture, adding reserved pasta water as needed for consistency. Top with shredded cheese before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 475
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Swap chicken for turkey or use rotisserie chicken for quicker prep. To spice it up, add jalapeños or red pepper flakes. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days or frozen for three months.