BBQ Chicken Casserole

My Comfort Food Go-To: BBQ Chicken Casserole

As a busy working mom, time in the kitchen is a precious commodity. I need recipes that are delicious, satisfying, and, most importantly, quick and easy. That's why this BBQ Chicken Casserole has become a staple in our household. It's a crowd-pleaser that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. It's a one-pan wonder, minimizing cleanup time – a huge bonus after a long day at the office. And while it feels indulgent, the combination of savory BBQ chicken, tender spaghetti squash, and crispy bacon makes it surprisingly satisfying without feeling overly heavy. This recipe easily adapts to whatever I have on hand too. Sometimes I swap out the bacon for pancetta or use leftover roasted chicken, and I love that I can adjust the spice level to our family's preferences.

The prep work is minimal. I usually cook the spaghetti squash ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator, making the assembly process even faster on busy weeknights. Then it's just a matter of dicing the onion, chopping the bacon, and tossing everything together. I've even gotten my kids involved in the process, making it a fun family activity.

The aroma that wafts from the oven while it's baking is heavenly – a blend of smoky bacon, sweet BBQ sauce, and tender chicken. The end result is a dish that's both comforting and flavorful. The spaghetti squash offers a healthier twist, adding a sweetness and moisture that contrasts beautifully with the smoky and savory elements. And don't even get me started on the crispy bacon topping – it's the perfect crunchy counterpoint to the soft, tender filling.

This BBQ Chicken Casserole is more than just a meal; it's a testament to the power of simple ingredients combined in a way that brings immense flavor. It's a recipe I'm happy to share, knowing it will bring a touch of warmth and deliciousness to any table. It's easy to adapt, versatile and above all, it tastes amazing. Let me know what you think!

Ingredients You'll Need:

This recipe comes together easily with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.

Protein Powerhouse:

• Chicken Breast

Veggie Goodness:

• Spaghetti Squash
• Red Onion

Flavor Boosters:

• Paleo BBQ Sauce (you can adjust this to your preference, or use your favourite store-bought sauce)
• Bacon (or a substitute)
• Garlic Powder
• Pepper
• Salt

Binding Magic:

• Eggs

Serving Suggestions:

This casserole is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. For a complete meal, simply serve it as is, straight from the oven. For a more elegant presentation, you can serve it in individual ramekins or transfer it to a decorative baking dish.

It pairs perfectly with a simple side salad for a lighter meal, or you could add some crusty bread to soak up the delicious BBQ sauce. Consider serving it with steamed green vegetables or roasted asparagus for a balanced and healthy meal. It also tastes fantastic with a side of coleslaw or potato salad for a more substantial meal.

Recipe Variations:

Don't be afraid to experiment with this recipe to make it your own! Here are some ideas:

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.
• Add some veggies: Throw in some chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrients and flavor.
• Cheese please: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese on top before baking for a cheesy twist.
• Make it a meal prep marvel: This casserole is perfect for meal prepping. You can bake it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for a quick and easy lunch or dinner during the week.

This BBQ Chicken Casserole isn't just a recipe; it's a testament to the power of delicious, simple food that brings people together. Enjoy!

Step-by-step

• Preheat oven to 400° and line a 13x9 pan with parchment paper.
• Place cooked spaghetti squash in a large bowl and pat dry with paper towel.
• Cut bacon with scissors and place in a large skillet.
• Cook on medium/high until crispy. Remove half onto a plate and add onion and chicken to remaining bacon.
• Cook until onion is tender and chicken is cooked through.
• Add chicken mixture to the spaghetti squash and then add the barbecue sauce. Start with 1 1/2 cups and add more if needed. Add the pepper, salt if needed, and garlic powder. Stir until everything is mixed well.
• Add the eggs, stirring completely.
• Place mixture into prepared pan, top with remaining bacon and bake 30-35 minutes.