Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a comforting, flavorful dish perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. It combines tender chicken, melted cheddar, and a kick of spice for a satisfying meal the whole family will love.

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)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large casserole dish.
2. Step 2: Cook the chicken in a large pot over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and shred the chicken.
3. Step 3: Boil salted water and cook the spaghetti until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
4. Step 4: In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked spaghetti, cream of chicken soup, chopped bell peppers, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well.
5. Step 5: Transfer the mixture to the greased casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top and bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
6. Step 6: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before garnishing with sliced green onions and serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra heat, add a diced jalapeño or increase the cayenne pepper slightly.
• Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker version.
• Swap the sharp cheddar for pepper jack cheese for a creamier, spicier taste.
• Add a handful of chopped fresh cilantro for a bright finish.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through, or cover and heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this casserole?

Yes, you can substitute spaghetti with other pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure al dente texture.

Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baked straight from the fridge.

Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 54 reviews

This Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish combining tender chicken, sharp cheddar cheese, and a hint of heat from paprika and cayenne pepper. Perfectly baked to achieve a golden bubbly top, this casserole mixes creamy soup, bell peppers, and pasta for a hearty meal that satisfies craving for Southern-style comfort food.

• Author: Amy
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Southern American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken and Pasta

• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 8 oz spaghetti

Cheese and Vegetables

• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup fresh bell peppers (chopped)
• 1/4 cup green onions (sliced)

Seasonings and Sauce

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large casserole dish to prevent sticking during baking.
2. Cook Chicken: Heat a large pot over medium heat and cook the chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove and shred the chicken once cooled.
3. Cook Spaghetti: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
4. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked spaghetti, cream of chicken soup, chopped bell peppers, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
5. Assemble Casserole: Transfer the mixture into the greased casserole dish and sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
6. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese on top is golden brown.
7. Rest and Garnish: Remove from oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with sliced green onions before serving for a fresh and flavorful finish.

Notes

• You can substitute cream of mushroom soup if preferred for a different flavor profile.
• Adjust cayenne pepper amount to suit your spice tolerance.
• Using sharp cheddar cheese provides a balanced tang; mild cheddar works if preferred.
• The casserole can be made ahead, assembled, refrigerated, and baked when ready.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: chicken casserole, cheesy chicken spaghetti, Southern comfort food, spicy chicken spaghetti, baked pasta casserole