Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

The Creamy Comfort of Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Casseroles are a staple in many homes, providing hearty meals that the whole family can enjoy. One dish that stands out in this category is the Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole. This recipe combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and cheesy goodness, making it a perfect comfort food for any occasion. What makes this recipe even better is that it’s simple to prepare and can easily feed a crowd. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or hosting friends, this casserole is sure to be a hit.

Why Make This Recipe

There are plenty of reasons to whip up a batch of Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole. First of all, it’s a quick and easy meal that doesn’t require a lot of prep time. The creamy filling combined with the spice from the peppers and the richness of the cheese creates a delightful explosion of flavors.

Besides being delicious, this casserole is also versatile. You can adjust the spice levels to suit your taste preferences, and you can add more vegetables or even switch up the type of cheese used. It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover chicken or to impress guests with minimal effort.

Moreover, this dish can easily feed a large group or provide leftovers for the week ahead. It’s filling, satisfying, and, best of all, loaded with cheesy goodness that everyone loves. So, let’s dive into how to make this delightful recipe!

How to Make Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Creating this mouthwatering casserole is easy. Follow the steps below to bring it to life!

Ingredients

To make the Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole, you will need the following ingredients:

• 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)

Directions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to prepare your casserole. Follow these simple instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a large casserole dish to prevent sticking.
3. Cook the chicken: Heat a large pot over medium heat. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side until it turns golden brown and is cooked through.
4. Boil the spaghetti: In another pot, boil salted water. Cook the spaghetti until it’s al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
5. Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, shred the cooked chicken. Add the cooked spaghetti, cream of chicken soup, chopped bell peppers, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is well combined.
6. Transfer to the casserole dish: Pour the chicken and spaghetti mixture into the greased casserole dish. Spread it out evenly and top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
7. Bake the casserole: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the dish is bubbly and golden brown on top.
8. Let it rest: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
9. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped green onions on top for added flavor and presentation before you dig in.

How to Serve Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Serving this delicious casserole is easy! You can serve it straight from the dish for a casual meal, or you can fancy it up a bit. Here are some serving ideas:

• As a main dish: This casserole is hearty enough to stand alone as the main course. Pair it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad to complete the meal.
• For gatherings: When hosting a get-together, serve the casserole in individual portions. You can use ramekins for individual servings, which makes a great presentation.
• Garnish: Before serving, top with more green onions or fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.

How to Store Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Storing leftovers is simple. Here’s how to effectively keep your casserole fresh:

• In the refrigerator: Let the casserole cool down to room temperature before storing. Cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer it to an airtight container. It should last about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• In the freezer: If you want to store it for a longer period, you can freeze the casserole. Make sure to let it cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, or use a freezer-safe container. It will last about 2-3 months in the freezer.

To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then bake at 350°F (175°C) until it’s heated through.

Tips to Make Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Here are some tips to enhance your cooking experience and the flavor of your dish:

• Season the chicken: Before cooking, marinate or season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper to add depth of flavor.
• Cook pasta al dente: Make sure not to overcook the spaghetti. Since it will bake further in the oven, it’s best to undercook it slightly.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh bell peppers not only add flavor but also a nice crunch to the dish. Consider using different colors for a vibrant presentation.
• Cheese choices: While sharp cheddar adds my favorite sharpness, feel free to mix in other cheeses.

Variation

You can explore various options to customize your Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole. Here are a few variations:

• Vegetarian version: Swap the chicken for cooked lentils or your favorite plant-based protein.
• Different proteins: Replace chicken with turkey or shrimp.
• Add more vegetables: Mix in vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Adjust the spice level: If you like it spicier, add more cayenne pepper. For a milder taste, reduce or eliminate the cayenne.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole without cream of chicken soup?

Yes, if you prefer not to use canned soup, you can make a homemade version using chicken broth, milk, and a thickening agent like flour or cornstarch.

How can I make this casserole ahead of time?

You can prepare the assembly of the casserole a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge and bake it the next day. This is an excellent time-saver for busy weekdays.

Can I use whole grain spaghetti for this recipe?

Absolutely! Whole grain spaghetti will work perfectly in this recipe and add extra nutrition. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as it may vary slightly.

Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is truly a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or special gathering, it’s sure to be a favorite! Enjoy every cheesy, spicy bite!

Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

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• Author: amanda-hart
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Pin Recipe

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Description

A hearty and comforting casserole featuring tender chicken, creamy sauce, and cheesy goodness, perfect for family dinners or 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).
2. Grease a large casserole dish to prevent sticking.
3. Cook the chicken: Heat a large pot over medium heat. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side until it turns golden brown and is cooked through.
4. Boil the spaghetti: In another pot, boil salted water. Cook the spaghetti until it’s al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
5. Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, shred the cooked chicken. Add the cooked spaghetti, cream of chicken soup, chopped bell peppers, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is well combined.
6. Transfer to the casserole dish: Pour the chicken and spaghetti mixture into the greased casserole dish. Spread it out evenly and top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
7. Bake the casserole: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the dish is bubbly and golden brown on top.
8. Let it rest: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
9. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped green onions on top for added flavor and presentation before serving.

Notes

For added depth of flavor, consider seasoning the chicken beforehand and using fresh ingredients for best results.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: casserole, chicken, cheesy, comforting, southern, spaghetti