Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a hearty dish that combines tender chicken, creamy soup, and cheesy goodness. This recipe is perfect for families looking for a warm, satisfying meal. It has a bit of spice to excite your taste buds, while the cheese makes it rich and comforting.
Table of Contents
Why make this recipe
There are many reasons to love Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole. First, it’s easy to make and uses simple ingredients that you likely already have at home. Second, it’s a great one-dish meal that pleases even picky eaters. Finally, it’s a fantastic way to use leftover chicken or make ahead for busy weeknights. Comforting, delicious, and simple—what’s not to love?
How to make 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.
Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
A hearty dish combining tender chicken, creamy soup, and cheesy goodness, perfect for families.
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
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
- 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.
Notes
Ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly. You can add more spices for extra kick. Use leftover chicken to save time.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
How to serve Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Serve this casserole warm right out of the oven. You can pair it with a fresh salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. For an extra kick, serve it with your favorite hot sauce on the side.
How to store Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
If you have leftovers, store the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Tips to make Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
- Ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly, as undercooked chicken can be a health risk.
- You can add more spices or even some diced jalapeños for a spicier dish.
- Use any leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time.
Variations
You can easily make this casserole vegetarian by substituting the chicken with cooked veggies like mushrooms or zucchini. You can also use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, to switch up the flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I freeze the casserole?
A: Yes, you can freeze the uncooked casserole before baking. Just cover it well and bake from frozen, adding extra time.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before and bake it when you are ready to serve.
Q: What can I serve with this casserole?
A: This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables.
Conclusion
Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is an easy and delicious meal that brings warmth and comfort to the table. With its cheesy, spicy flavor and satisfying ingredients, it will become a favorite among your family and friends. Enjoy cooking and savoring this delightful dish!
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