Why Make This Recipe
Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a delightful dish that combines comfort and flavor. It’s a one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The cheesy goodness, together with the spicy kick, makes it a favorite for any occasion. This casserole is easy to prepare, and it will surely satisfy everyone at the dinner table.
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 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, straight from the oven. It pairs well with a simple salad or some garlic bread. You can also garnish with extra green onions for added flavor.
How to Store Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. The casserole can keep in the fridge for 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
- Make sure the chicken is cooked thoroughly to avoid any food safety issues.
- Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more or less cayenne pepper.
- For an extra cheesy casserole, add an additional cup of cheddar cheese on top.
Variation
You can customize this recipe by adding vegetables like mushrooms or spinach to increase the nutrition. Additionally, using different types of cheese like mozzarella or pepper jack can offer a new twist on the flavors.
FAQs
Q: Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, using leftover or rotisserie chicken is a great way to save time!
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge before baking.
Q: Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
A: Yes, you can freeze the uncooked casserole. Just thaw it in the fridge before baking.
Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese Divided for mixing and topping
- 1 cup fresh bell peppers, chopped
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)
Spices
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper Adjust according to spice preference
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced For garnish
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 (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 remaining cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Serving
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before garnishing with chopped green onions and serving.