Why Make This Recipe
Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that brings the best of Southern flavors together. With its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and a bit of spice, this casserole will please everyone at the dinner table. It’s easy to make, perfect for weeknight meals, and great for feeding a crowd. You can even prepare it ahead of time and bake it later, making it a great choice for busy families.
How to Make Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
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:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large casserole dish.
- Cook the chicken in a large pot over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
- Boil salted water and cook spaghetti until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix shredded chicken, cooked spaghetti, cream of chicken soup, bell peppers, spices, and half of the cheddar cheese until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to the greased casserole dish and top with the remaining cheese. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before garnishing with chopped green onions and serving.
How to Serve Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Serve this casserole warm right out of the oven. It pairs nicely with a simple side salad or some crusty bread. For extra flavor, consider adding hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy a little more heat.
How to Store Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
If you have leftovers, let the casserole cool completely before storing it. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or heat in the microwave.
Tips to Make Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time. Just shred and mix it into the casserole.
- Adjust the spices to suit your taste. If you prefer less heat, reduce the cayenne pepper.
- Add some vegetables like broccoli or spinach for extra nutrition.
Variation
You can easily change this recipe by using different types of pasta or cheese. For a healthier version, consider using whole wheat spaghetti or low-fat cheese.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare it, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to a day before baking.
Q: Can I use other meats?
A: Absolutely! Ground turkey, beef, or even sausage can be substituted for chicken.
Q: Is there a vegetarian option?
A: Yes! You can use vegetables instead of chicken and add more cheese or a meat alternative to keep it hearty.
Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3-4 pieces 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
Spices
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper Adjust to taste for less heat.
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Garnish
- 1/4 cup green onions (sliced)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large casserole dish.
- Cook the chicken in a large pot over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
- Boil salted water and cook spaghetti until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
Mixing
- In a bowl, mix shredded chicken, cooked spaghetti, cream of chicken soup, bell peppers, spices, and half of the cheddar cheese until well combined.
Baking
- Transfer the mixture to the greased casserole dish and top with the remaining cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before garnishing with chopped green onions and serving.