Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
If you’re craving comfort with a kick, Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole will be your new go-to dish. Creamy, boldly flavored, and pleasantly spicy, this casserole pulls together tender chicken, sharp cheddar, spaghetti, and colorful peppers into one bubbling, family-friendly meal that’s as perfect for weeknights as it is for gathering around the Sunday table. Every bite is a celebration of Southern charm with a luscious cheesy twist that keeps you coming back for seconds (and thirds!).
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is how straightforward the ingredients are—each one plays its part in delivering big, unforgettable flavor and irresistible texture. Here’s what you’ll need, along with a few tips to make every bite better:
- Chicken breasts: Use 3-4 boneless, skinless pieces for succulent chunks that turn juicy when baked into the casserole.
- Spaghetti: 8 ounces is just the right amount to soak up all the creamy, cheesy goodness without getting mushy.
- Sharp cheddar cheese: 2 cups—half for the mix and half for the bubbly topping, giving you maximum cheesiness and a beautiful golden crown.
- Bell peppers: 1 cup fresh, chopped—add vibrant color and a sweet crunch that balances the heat.
- Cream of chicken soup: One (10.5 oz) can acts as the velvety base holding everything together in creamy harmony.
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon infuses a gorgeous red hue and subtle smokiness, deepening the Southern flavor.
- Cayenne pepper: 1/2 teaspoon for that signature spicy kick—perfectly balanced, but feel free to adjust for your heat tolerance!
- Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon provides a savory backbone that rounds out every bite.
- Green onions: 1/4 cup sliced as a fresh, zesty garnish to brighten up the finished casserole.
How to Make Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease up a large casserole dish with a dab of butter or a quick spray—this simple step ensures easy serving and makes clean-up a breeze when the cheese gets melty and gooey around the edges.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Place your chicken breasts in a large pot and cook over medium heat, about 6-7 minutes per side. You want them golden and thoroughly cooked. Let them rest briefly, then shred or chop them into hearty pieces. The chicken soaks up all the flavors, transforming into tender, savory bites throughout the casserole.
Step 3: Boil the Spaghetti
Bring a big pot of salted water to a rolling boil and add the spaghetti. Cook it just until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes. Drain well—no one wants watery casserole! This ensures the pasta can absorb just the right amount of sauce while staying firm.
Step 4: Mix Everything Together
In a generous mixing bowl, combine your shredded chicken, cooked spaghetti, cream of chicken soup, chopped bell peppers, paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and half of the shredded cheddar. Stir until the bright peppers and cheese ribbons are evenly distributed, and everything is gloriously coated in the creamy sauce.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Spoon the mixture into your prepared casserole dish, spreading it out gently. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese in an even layer across the top—this is what will form that drool-worthy golden crust. Pop it into your oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese bubbles fiercely and turns a toasty shade of brown around the edges.
Step 6: Rest, Garnish, and Serve
Take the casserole out and let it rest for at least 5 minutes. This short pause makes slicing and serving so much easier. Shower the top with those fresh, sliced green onions for a pop of color and a final, bright flavor boost.
How to Serve Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh green onions is classic, but don’t be shy about adding some freshly chopped cilantro, diced jalapeños, or even a dusting of extra paprika on top. Each garnish brings its own layer of Southern flair and spicy freshness, elevating the casserole visually and on the palate.
Side Dishes
Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole practically begs for some simple, Southern-inspired sides. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette, fluffy cornbread, or sautéed greens all balance the creamy, rich main dish beautifully. Bonus points for a side of pickled jalapeños to turn up the heat just a notch!
Creative Ways to Present
You can serve straight from the casserole dish for casual family dinners, or scoop generous portions into individual ramekins for an upscale twist. For potlucks or holidays, consider topping the finished casserole with festive slices of tri-colored bell peppers or arranging extra cheese in fun patterns before baking—the little details make every gathering more memorable.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is practically a gift to your future self. Cover the baking dish tightly with foil or transfer to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. A little time in the fridge gives the flavors extra chance to mingle, so don’t be surprised if the second serving tastes even better!
Freezing
To freeze, let the casserole cool completely. Wrap individual portions or the whole dish in a double layer of plastic wrap and foil. Label with the name and date, then stash it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready for a spicy, cheesy pick-me-up, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheating
For best results, reheat larger portions in the oven at 350°F until hot and bubbly (about 20-25 minutes). For smaller portions, a few minutes in the microwave will do—just cover loosely and stir halfway for even heating. Add a bit of extra cheese on top before reheating to maintain that signature gooey, melty bite.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie or leftover chicken instead?
Absolutely! Rotisserie or pre-cooked chicken works wonders in this casserole and can even speed up prep. Just shred or chop and use in place of the cooked chicken breasts—perfect for busy evenings.
How spicy is the Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole?
The spice level is moderate, thanks to the cayenne and paprika, but very balanced by the creamy sauce and cheese. If you want it milder, just reduce the cayenne. If you love heat, don’t be shy about adding a pinch more or even some diced jalapeños!
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes! While sharp cheddar is classic for that Southern tang and melt, feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even mozzarella for a different flavor twist. Mixing cheeses can make the topping extra gooey and delicious.
What’s the best way to make this casserole ahead of time?
Assemble everything right up to the point of baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it heats through completely.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Definitely! Simply use your favorite gluten-free spaghetti and make sure your cream of chicken soup is labeled gluten-free. The flavor and texture remain fantastic, and everyone can enjoy a heaping plate of comfort food.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that’s crowd-pleasing, wonderfully cheesy, and unmistakably Southern, Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is impossible to beat. Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a meal that’s as fun to make as it is to eat—you may just discover your next family tradition!
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Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, al dente spaghetti, creamy cheese, and a spicy kick of peppers and seasonings. A perfect family-friendly meal for any day of the week!
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
Spaghetti:
- 8 oz spaghetti
Cheese Mixture:
- 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 Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large casserole dish.
- Cook Chicken: Cook the chicken in a pot over medium heat until golden and cooked through.
- Cook Spaghetti: Boil salted water, cook spaghetti until al dente, drain, and set aside.
- Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix shredded chicken, cooked spaghetti, cream of chicken soup, bell peppers, spices, and half of the cheddar cheese.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the mixture to the casserole dish, top with remaining cheese, and bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Serve: Let it rest for 5 minutes, garnish with green onions, and serve.
Notes
- You can customize the level of spiciness by adjusting the amount of cayenne pepper used.
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the casserole for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: Spicy, Cheesy, Chicken, Spaghetti, Casserole, Southern, Comfort Food
