Why Make This Recipe
Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a delightful dish that brings comfort to any table. This recipe combines tender chicken, creamy soup, and a kick of spice, all baked together with cheesy goodness. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. If you love cheesy dishes with a bit of heat, this recipe is a must-try!
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 warm as a main dish. It pairs well with a fresh salad or some garlic bread. The cheesy and spicy flavors make it a hit with everyone.
How to Store Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat the casserole in the microwave or oven until warm.
Tips to Make Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
- Make sure not to overcook the spaghetti; it should be al dente as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less cayenne pepper to suit your taste.
- For extra flavor, add some diced tomatoes or corn to the mixture.
Variation
You can use different types of cheese, like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack, for a different flavor profile. For a lighter version, substitute the cream of chicken soup with a low-fat version or use homemade sauce.
FAQs
Q: Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, leftover roasted or rotisserie chicken works great in this casserole.
Q: Is it possible to freeze this casserole?
A: Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Just cover it well and store it for up to 2 months. Bake it straight from frozen, adding a bit more time to the baking process.
Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with cooked vegetables like zucchini and mushrooms, and use vegetable soup instead of cream of chicken soup.
Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- 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.