Chicken Spaghetti Casserole: A South African Family Favourite

This versatile recipe is not only a favourite for family dinners, but also a fantastic way to use leftover chicken or pasta. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients for the Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

This recipe is designed to feed a family, and the portions can easily be adjusted depending on how many people you’re serving. The ingredients listed below offer a delightful balance of creamy, cheesy, and savoury flavours.

For the Casserole

• 400g spaghetti (uncooked)
• 500g cooked chicken breast (shredded or cubed)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
• 1 green pepper (chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 250ml chicken stock
• 250ml full-cream milk
• 250ml fresh cream
• 300g cheddar cheese (grated, divided into two portions)
• 100g mozzarella cheese (grated)
• 100g cream cheese (softened)
• 1 tin of chopped tomatoes (400g)
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp mixed herbs
• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 tsp black pepper (freshly ground)
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a hint of spice)
• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

How to Make the Best Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

1. Prepare the Spaghetti

Start by cooking the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Boil water in a large pot, add a generous pinch of salt, and cook the spaghetti until it’s just al dente (firm to the bite). Drain and set aside. It’s important not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven later.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and green pepper and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. This base of sautéed vegetables gives the casserole a wonderful depth of flavour.

3. Make the Creamy Sauce

To the sautéed vegetables, add the tin of chopped tomatoes, paprika, and mixed herbs, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down and the spices to blend.

Next, pour in the chicken stock, milk, and cream. Stir gently and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, then add cream cheese and half of the grated cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Let the sauce simmer for another 5 minutes until it thickens slightly. This rich, cheesy sauce is the heart of the casserole, bringing everything together in every bite.

4. Combine the Chicken and Spaghetti

Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the cooked chicken and cooked spaghetti. Mix everything thoroughly so that the chicken and pasta are evenly coated with the creamy sauce. This is where the magic begins, as the flavours of the sauce meld with the tender chicken and pasta.

5. Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a large baking dish with olive oil or butter. Pour the chicken and spaghetti mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly.

6. Add the Cheesy Topping

Top the casserole with the remaining cheddar cheese and all of the mozzarella cheese. For an extra golden, cheesy crust, you can sprinkle a little parmesan over the top as well.

7. Bake the Casserole

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top. If you like your cheese extra crispy, you can switch the oven to grill mode for the last 2-3 minutes, but keep an eye on it to avoid burning.

8. Garnish and Serve

Once baked to perfection, remove the Chicken Spaghetti Casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of colour and freshness. Serve the casserole warm, paired with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Tips for a Perfect Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

• Customise your proteins: If you don’t have chicken breast, you can use rotisserie chicken or leftover roast chicken. You can even substitute the chicken with turkey or ham.
• Add vegetables: Feel free to add vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or peas for extra texture and nutrition.
• Use different cheeses: If you want to experiment with flavours, try adding other cheeses like gouda, parmesan, or pepper jack for a different twist.
• Make it ahead: This casserole can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to two days. When ready to serve, bake it as instructed, adding 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
• Freezer-friendly: You can freeze this casserole for up to three months. Be sure to cover it tightly with foil. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as usual.

Why This Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Stands Out

What makes this Chicken Spaghetti Casserole a cut above the rest is the combination of perfectly cooked pasta, tender chicken, and a creamy sauce that doesn’t skimp on flavour. By using a mixture of cheeses and a variety of spices, this casserole offers a well-rounded taste that’s both comforting and indulgent. The addition of fresh herbs and vegetables only enhances the dish, making it a complete, satisfying meal that the whole family will love.

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