Why Make This Recipe
Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a comforting dish that combines familiar flavors in a delightful way. It’s an easy recipe for busy families or anyone who loves a cheesy meal with a kick of spice. This casserole is flavorful, filling, and perfect for sharing with friends and family. Plus, it can be made ahead of time and served later, making it a great choice for meal prep!
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 (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 hot from the oven. It goes well with a simple green salad or crusty bread. You can also add extra green onions or a dash of hot sauce on top for added flavor.
How to Store Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to store it for a longer period, you can freeze it for up to 2-3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
Tips to Make Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
- You can use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Adjust the spices according to your heat preference; add more cayenne for extra spice.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for more nutrition.
Variation
For a lighter version, you can swap out the cream of chicken soup for a homemade white sauce or replace half of the cheese with a low-fat alternative. You can also use whole grain or gluten-free pasta.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the fridge before baking. Just increase the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What can I use instead of chicken?
You can substitute chicken with cooked ground turkey, beef, or even beans for a vegetarian option.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix different cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for added flavor.
Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts About 3-4 pieces
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup fresh bell peppers (chopped) Any color bell peppers can be used
- 1 can cream of chicken soup 10.5 oz
Spices
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper Adjust according to heat preference
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Garnish
- 1/4 cup green onions (sliced)
Instructions
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 cooked through.
- Boil salted water and cook spaghetti until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
Mixing and Baking
- 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.