Name: Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
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)

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Why Make This Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting, cheesy dish with a kick of spice, Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is the perfect choice. This dish combines tender chicken, gooey cheese, and the warmth of spices to create a meal that everyone will love. It’s not only easy to make but also packs well for leftovers, making it a great option for busy weeknights.

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 on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
Boil salted water and cook the spaghetti until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
In a bowl, mix the 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 hot and straight from the oven. It pairs well with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce. This dish is perfect for feeding a crowd, so feel free to dish it out family-style or serve it in individual portions.

How to Store Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe dish.

Tips to Make Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Spice it up: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper based on how spicy you like your dishes.
Cheese choice: Try mixing different types of cheese for added flavor, like Monterey Jack or pepper jack.
Packed with veggies: Add more chopped vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.

Variations

You can switch things up by using ground turkey or beef instead of chicken. For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with black beans or chickpeas and use a vegetable-based cream soup.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish a day in advance, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it on the day you want to serve it.

What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole goes well with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables.