Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

There’s something especially inviting about a warm, cheesy casserole, isn’t there? This Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole combines the comforting traits of a classic dish with a spicy twist that’s bound to elevate your dining experience. Whipping this up on a weeknight not only satisfies the whole family’s cravings but also brings a taste of Southern charm to your table. Trust me, this dish has earned a spot in my recipe repertoire for its combination of flavors and ease of preparation!

Why Make This Recipe

What Makes This Recipe Special

What sets this Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole apart is its unique fusion of flavors and simplicity. It’s not just quick to prepare; it also hits that sweet spot of being both hearty and comforting. The combination of tender chicken, creamy soup, and spicy seasoning creates a flavor profile that’s truly irresistible. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly meal that can feed a crowd, making it perfect for family gatherings or potlucks!

"This casserole has quickly become a family favorite! It’s cheesy, spicy, and unbelievably satisfying. A must-try!" — Happy Home Cook

How to Make Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing this casserole is a breeze! You’ll start by cooking the chicken and spaghetti, then mix them with some flavorful ingredients before baking. It’s a delicious, one-dish meal that’s perfect for those busy evenings.

Ingredients

What You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is the first step toward a delightful dinner. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this recipe to life:

• 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 8 oz spaghetti
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup fresh bell peppers (chopped)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 cup green onions (sliced)

Feel free to substitute the chicken with cooked rotisserie chicken or swap out the cheddar for any cheese you prefer!

Directions

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large casserole dish.
2. In a large pot, cook the chicken over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes per side, until it’s golden brown and cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, boil salted water and cook the spaghetti until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked spaghetti, cream of chicken soup, bell peppers, spices, and half of the cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to the greased casserole dish and top with the remaining cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until it’s bubbly and golden brown.
7. Allow it to rest for about 5 minutes before garnishing with chopped green onions and serving.

How to Serve Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Best Way to Serve

When serving this casserole, keep it simple to allow its flavors to shine! Pair it with a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast, or serve it alongside garlic bread for that classic comfort vibe. For extra flair, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a dollop of sour cream on top for those who crave even more heat.

How to Store

Storage Tips

To keep your Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole fresh, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to enjoy it later, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Just remember to reheat it thoroughly before serving!

Tips to Make

Pro Chef Tips

• Cooking the chicken until it’s golden brown enhances flavor, so don’t rush this step!
• For added decadence, mix in some cream cheese with the soup for an even richer texture.
• To spice it up further, consider tossing in some diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the mix.

Variations

Creative Twists

If you want to shake things up a bit, there are plenty of creative variations to explore. Swap out the cheddar for pepper jack cheese for an extra kick, or try using rotini or penne pasta instead of spaghetti for a different fun shape. You can also make it vegetarian by replacing the chicken with black beans and adding additional vegetables, such as corn and zucchini.

FAQs

Common Questions

How long does this dish take to prepare?
The total time from start to finish is about 45-60 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight meal.

Can I use different pasta?
Absolutely! Any pasta shape you enjoy will work well in this recipe. Just adjust cooking times as necessary.

What if I have leftovers? Are they safe to eat?
Yes, leftovers can be stored safely in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Is there a way to make it dairy-free?
You can substitute the cheese and cream of chicken soup with dairy-free alternatives to accommodate certain dietary needs.

Enjoy your cooking adventure, and get ready for a delicious and cheesy casserole that’s sure to become a favorite!

Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

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• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

A warm, cheesy casserole with a spicy twist that combines comforting flavors and is perfect for family gatherings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 8 oz spaghetti
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup fresh bell peppers (chopped)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 cup green onions (sliced)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large casserole dish.
2. In a large pot, cook the chicken over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes per side, until it’s golden brown and cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, boil salted water and cook the spaghetti until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked spaghetti, cream of chicken soup, bell peppers, spices, and half of the cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to the greased casserole dish and top with the remaining cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until it’s bubbly and golden brown.
7. Allow it to rest for about 5 minutes before garnishing with chopped green onions and serving.

Notes

For added decadence, mix in some cream cheese with the soup for an even richer texture. Spice it up further with diced jalapeños or hot sauce.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: casserole, chicken, cheese, spicy, southern, pasta