Paula Deen Chicken Spaghetti Recipe

There is nothing quite like a warm bowl of comfort food after a long day. This Paula Deen Chicken Spaghetti Recipe is exactly what your family needs. It is cheesy, creamy, and full of southern soul.

I first made this for a potluck, and the pan was empty in minutes. Everyone wanted the secret! If you want a meal that feels like a big hug, this Paula Deen Chicken Spaghetti Recipe is the one.

What Makes This Paula Deen Chicken Spaghetti Special

This recipe stands out because it is pure Southern comfort. Paula Deen is known for using rich, flavorful ingredients that satisfy everyone. The blend of creamy soups and sharp cheddar makes a sauce that is velvety and smooth.

Unlike dry pasta dishes, this one stays moist even after baking. It is also very flexible. You can use leftover chicken or a store-bought rotisserie chicken to save time.

It is the perfect “set it and forget it” oven meal for busy weeknights. Your kids will love the cheesy topping, and you will love how easy it is to clean up.

Equipment List

• Large stockpot for boiling pasta.
• Large mixing bowl.
• 9×13 inch baking dish.
• Colander for draining.
• Whisk or large spoon.
• Measuring cups and spoons.
• Aluminum foil.

Recipe Overview

• Recipe Name: Paula Deen Chicken Spaghetti
• Servings: 8 People
• Prep Time: 20 mins
• Cook Time: 30 mins
• Total Time: 50 mins
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: American / Southern
• Calories: 450 kcal per serving

Ingredients You Need for Paula Deen Chicken Spaghetti Recipe

• 1 package (16 oz) of thin spaghetti or vermicelli.
• 3 cups of cooked chicken, shredded or cubed.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup.
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (Ro-Tel style).
• 1 jar (2 oz) of diced pimientos, drained.
• 1 small onion, finely diced.
• 1 bell pepper, finely diced.
• 2 cups of sharp cheddar cheese, shredded and divided.
• 1/2 cup of chicken broth.
• 1 teaspoon of salt.
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper.
• 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This prevents the pasta from sticking to the edges during the baking process.

2. Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti until it is “al dente,” which means slightly firm. Do not overcook it, as it will soften more in the oven.

3. Prepare the Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine both cream soups and the chicken broth. Add the salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and very creamy.

4. Mix in the Aromatics

Add the diced onions and bell peppers to the soup mixture. Stir in the diced tomatoes with green chilies and the drained pimientos. These add a beautiful pop of color and flavor.

5. Add the Chicken and Cheese

Fold the shredded chicken into the sauce. Add one cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well so every piece of chicken is coated in the cheesy sauce.

6. Combine with Pasta

Drain the cooked spaghetti and add it to the large bowl. Toss the pasta gently with the chicken and sauce. Make sure the noodles are completely covered in the liquid.

7. Transfer to Dish

Pour the entire mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spoon. It should look thick and rich. This is the heart of the Paula Deen Chicken Spaghetti Recipe.

8. Add the Topping

Sprinkle the remaining cup of cheddar cheese over the top. You can add a little extra if you love cheese. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to keep moisture in.

9. Bake the Spaghetti

Place the dish in the oven for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes. The cheese should be melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on the edges.

10. Let it Rest

Remove the dish from the oven. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce thicken up so it sticks to the noodles perfectly.

Expert Tips & Variations

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: This is a huge time-saver. The flavor of roasted chicken makes the dish taste even better.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a little kick.
• Vegetable Boost: Stir in some steamed broccoli or peas to add more nutrition to the meal.
• Cheese Swap: Try using Pepper Jack cheese instead of Cheddar for a spicy, tangy twist.
• Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle crushed butter crackers or breadcrumbs on top before baking for extra texture.

Interesting Facts About Chicken Spaghetti

Chicken spaghetti is a classic staple in the Deep South. It is often served at church socials, reunions, and funerals because it feeds a crowd easily. While many pastas are Italian, this version is uniquely American.

It gained popularity in the mid-20th century when condensed soups became a kitchen favorite. Paula Deen helped modernize it by making it richer and more flavorful for today’s families.

Perfect Dishes to Serve With Chicken Spaghetti

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the extra creamy sauce from your plate.
• Garden Salad: A light, crisp salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the cheese.
• Roasted Green Beans: Simple veggies add a nice crunch to the meal.
• Honey Cornbread: The sweetness of the bread pairs perfectly with the savory chicken.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 to 4 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked dish for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking.
• Reheating: Microwave individual portions with a splash of milk to keep the pasta moist.
• Oven Reheat: Cover with foil and bake at 325°F until warmed through to maintain the texture.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	450 kcal
Total Fat	22g
Cholesterol	85mg
Sodium	980mg
Carbohydrates	38g
Protein	25g

Health Benefits

While this is a comfort dish, it does offer good nutrition. The chicken provides high-quality protein for muscle growth and repair. Bell peppers and onions contain Vitamin C and antioxidants to support your immune system.

If you want a healthier version, you can use whole-wheat pasta or low-sodium cream soups. This meal is very filling, which helps prevent overeating later in the day.

FAQs about Paula Deen Chicken Spaghetti Recipe

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the entire dish a day in advance. Keep it covered in the refrigerator. When you are ready, just pop it in the oven and add 10 minutes to the cook time.

What is the best pasta to use for chicken spaghetti?

Thin spaghetti or vermicelli works best. These thin noodles absorb the creamy sauce much better than thick noodles like fettuccine. It creates a more cohesive, casserole-like texture.

Is this dish very spicy because of the Ro-Tel tomatoes?

It has a very mild heat. The cream and cheese balance out the chilies perfectly. If you are very sensitive to spice, use “Mild” diced tomatoes or regular canned tomatoes.

Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! This is a fantastic way to use up leftover Thanksgiving turkey. The texture is very similar, and the savory sauce works perfectly with turkey meat.

Final Thoughts

Making this Paula Deen Chicken Spaghetti Recipe is a guaranteed way to make your family happy. It is simple, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying.

Whether it is a busy Tuesday or a Sunday dinner, this dish never fails. Give it a try tonight and enjoy the taste of the South!