Introduction

Welcome to ComfortCooking.net, where we’re serving up a family favorite that turns any busy weeknight into a cozy celebration. This Southern-style Chicken Spaghetti is legendary for its velvety, cheesy texture and that “hug-in-a-bowl” feeling only a great casserole can provide.

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Time & Servings

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Number of Servings: 6–8 servings

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Ingredients

• 12 oz spaghetti noodles, broken in half
• 3 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works perfectly)
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Ro-Tel), undrained
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded and divided
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• For the “Healthier Hero” Sauce (Replaces 2 cans of soup):
  • 1.5 cups plain Greek yogurt
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • (Alternative: 2 cups steamed cauliflower florets blended with 1/2 cup broth until silky)

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Directions

1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Boil the Pasta: Boil the spaghetti in salted water until just al dente (slightly firm to the bite), then drain and set aside.
3. Mix the “Creamy” Base: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, chicken broth, and cornstarch until completely smooth (or use your blended cauliflower mixture).
4. Combine Ingredients: Stir in the shredded chicken, undrained tomatoes with green chilies, 1 cup of the cheddar cheese, and all the seasonings until the mixture is uniform.
5. Fold in Spaghetti: Gently toss the cooked spaghetti into the creamy base, ensuring every strand is well-coated in the sauce.
6. Bake: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, topping it with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese. Bake for 25–30 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on the edges.

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Chef’s Note

To add a pop of color and balance the savory richness of the cheese, I highly recommend folding in two cups of steamed broccoli florets or sautéed bell peppers right before the baking stage.