Irresistible Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Name: Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Southern
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)

Published: May 21, 2025

by Mia Hanry

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole offers unbeatable flavors with minimal prep time
It’s visually stunning and perfect for impressing guests at dinner parties
Versatile enough to serve as a main course or side dish, you can easily customize ingredients based on preference
The creamy texture combined with spicy notes makes every spoonful irresistible

I remember the first time I made this casserole for my family—everyone couldn’t stop raving about it, especially my uncle who proclaimed it “the best thing since sliced bread.”

Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 breasts; adjust for larger gatherings or hungry teens.
Pasta: Spaghetti works beautifully here, but feel free to try penne or rotini for a fun twist.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Choose sharp cheddar for an extra kick of flavor that blends well with the spices.
Fresh Bell Peppers: Brightly colored peppers add both crunch and sweetness; choose red or yellow for a pop of color.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This is the secret ingredient that adds creaminess without all the fuss of making a béchamel sauce.
Spices: A mix of paprika, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder gives the casserole its signature Southern kick. For more inspiration, check out this garlic butter green beans recipe.
Green Onions: These add freshness; sprinkle them on top just before serving for added flavor and vibrancy.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Prepare Your Oven and Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large casserole dish with nonstick spray so nothing sticks during this cheesy adventure.

Cook the Chicken: In a large pot over medium heat, cook the boneless chicken breasts until golden brown. Aim for about 6-7 minutes per side until they’re cooked through and juicy.

Boil the Pasta: While your chicken cooks, boil a pot of salted water and add spaghetti. Cook until al dente—around 8-10 minutes—then drain and set aside to cool slightly.

Mix It All Up!: In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, cooked spaghetti, cream of chicken soup, bell peppers, spices, and half of the cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is coated in creamy goodness.

Bake to Perfection: Pour the mixture into your greased casserole dish and top with remaining cheese. Bake in preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Add Freshness Before Serving: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle chopped green onions on top before serving to bring freshness to each flavorful bite.

And there you have it—a Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole that’s sure to become a favorite! Enjoy every cheesy forkful while soaking up those compliments from family and friends. classic meatloaf recipe Southern fried green tomatoes.

You Must Know

This Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a comforting delight
The creamy texture paired with a kick of spice makes it irresistible
Perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners, it’s a dish that warms both the stomach and the heart

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing seasoned chicken until golden, then cook pasta while preparing your creamy sauce. This timing ensures everything blends perfectly.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap chicken for shrimp or add veggies like bell peppers for extra color and flavor. one pan chicken and veggie bake Personalize it to suit your taste!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until hot throughout.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve a creamy texture, always mix cheese into the sauce off heat
Avoid overcooking pasta; al dente is ideal for casserole consistency
Spice levels can be adjusted based on personal preference without sacrificing flavor

Sharing this recipe reminds me of family gatherings where laughter filled the air as we devoured this cheesy goodness together. It never fails to create lasting memories.

FAQ

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, prepare it a day in advance and refrigerate before baking.

What type of cheese works best?

A blend of cheddar and cream cheese creates the perfect creamy texture.

Is there a vegetarian version?

Absolutely! Replace chicken with mushrooms and use vegetable broth for extra flavor.

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