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A hearty plate of Zesty Chicken Spaghetti Bake topped with cheese and fresh herbs, served steaming hot on a rustic plate.

Zesty Chicken Spaghetti Bake: A Southern Comfort Classic

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Enjoy a comforting and spicy Zesty Chicken Spaghetti Bake, a Southern classic that’s perfect for family dinners and chilly evenings. This hearty casserole combines tender chicken, flavorful spices, and cheesy goodness for a satisfying meal everyone will love.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups cooked spaghetti or pasta of choice
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (preferably grilled or baked)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup chopped green onions
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons spicy Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: chopped jalapeños for extra spice

Instructions

  1. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and cook shredded chicken until heated through, seasoning with Cajun spices if desired.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, shredded chicken, diced tomatoes, chopped green onions, sour cream, milk, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  4. Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese for a cheesier texture.
  5. Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading evenly.
  6. Sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese on top.
  7. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden. Broil for an additional 2-3 minutes for a crispy top, if desired.

Notes

  • Ensure to cook the pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy during baking.
  • You can add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce for extra heat.
  • For a creamier casserole, add a splash more milk or sour cream as desired.
  • You can prepare ingredients in advance and assemble before baking.
  • Author: Emma Bloomfield
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Southern American
  • Diet: Nut-Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: 450 Kcal
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 900mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg