why make this recipe

Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a delicious, comforting dish that’s perfect for family meals or potlucks. It combines tender chicken, creamy cheese, and a little kick from spices, all in one easy-to-make casserole. This recipe is not only hearty but also brings warmth to any table, making it a fantastic choice for gatherings or cozy nights at home.

how to make Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Making this casserole is simple and takes just a bit of time. Follow the steps below to whip up this tasty dish.

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) and 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 fully cooked.
Boil salted water and cook the spaghetti until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
In a bowl, mix the 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 bubbling 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, straight from the oven. It pairs nicely with a side salad or some crusty bread. You can also offer extra green onions or hot sauce for those who enjoy a little more spice.

how to store Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave until warmed through. For longer storage, it can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cover it well before freezing.

tips to make Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Make sure to cook the chicken fully to ensure it stays tender in the casserole.
If you like it spicier, feel free to add more cayenne pepper or even some chopped jalapeños.
You can substitute the bell peppers with other vegetables, like mushrooms or zucchini, to suit your taste.
Feel free to use different types of cheese for a unique flavor.

Serving Ideas

This casserole is fantastic on its own, but you could also serve it with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For an extra special touch, serve with a sprinkle of chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro.

Final Thoughts

Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a tasty and satisfying dish that is easy to prepare and loved by all. It’s perfect for any occasion and is sure to be a hit at your dinner table.

FAQs

Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Yes, using leftover or rotisserie chicken can save you time and still taste great.
Can I make this casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day before, store it in the fridge, and bake it when you’re ready to serve.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
You can use cream of mushroom soup or make a homemade white sauce as a substitute.

Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

A delicious, comforting casserole that combines tender chicken, creamy cheese, and a kick from spices, perfect for family meals or potlucks.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 40

Total Time 55

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American, Southern

Calories: 400

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1.5 lbs 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts Cooked until golden and fully cooked.
8 oz spaghetti Cooked until al dente.
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese Divided for use in and on top of the casserole.
1 cup fresh bell peppers (chopped) Can be substituted with other vegetables.
1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz) Can be substituted with cream of mushroom soup.
1 tsp paprika For added flavor.
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper Add more for extra spiciness.
1 tsp garlic powder
1/4 cup green onions (sliced) For garnishing.

Method

Preparation

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and 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 fully cooked.
Boil salted water and cook the spaghetti until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.

Mixing and Baking

In a bowl, mix the 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 bubbling and golden brown.
Let it rest for 5 minutes before garnishing with chopped green onions and serving.

Notes

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Feel free to use different types of cheese for a unique flavor.