Save to Pinterest Indulge in the heartwarming flavors of Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole. This creamy, cheesy dish is layered with tender chicken and zesty spices, making it a perfect comfort food for family gatherings or cozy dinners. With minimal prep time and customizable ingredients, you can create an irresistible meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!
I remember the first time I served this casserole at a Sunday dinner with my family. The rich aroma filled the house as everyone gathered around, and it instantly became a requested favorite at our gatherings!
Ingredients
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: 3 or 4, about 1.5 lbs
- Spaghetti: 8 oz
- Sharp cheddar cheese: 2 cups, shredded
- Fresh bell peppers: 1 cup, chopped
- Cream of chicken soup: 1 can (10.5 oz)
- Paprika: 1 tsp
- Cayenne pepper: 1/2 tsp
- Garlic powder: 1 tsp
- Green onions: 1/4 cup, sliced
Instructions
- Prep & Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large casserole dish.
- Cook Chicken:
- Cook the chicken in a large pot over medium heat for about 6,7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
- Make Pasta:
- Boil salted water and cook spaghetti until al dente (8,10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- Mix Ingredients:
- In a bowl, mix shredded chicken, cooked spaghetti, cream of chicken soup, bell peppers, spices, and half of the cheddar cheese until well combined.
- Bake:
- Transfer the mixture to the greased casserole dish and top with remaining cheese. Bake for 25,30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve:
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before garnishing with chopped green onions and serving.
Save to Pinterest My kids always get so excited when they see this bubbling casserole come out of the oven. Last thanksgiving, it was the first dish everyone reached for!
Nutrition Info
Each serving provides around 380 calories, 24g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. Nutritional values are approximate.
Make Ahead Suggestions
You can prep the casserole in advance and store it in the fridge. Simply bake just before serving for best results.
Serving Ideas
This casserole pairs perfectly with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables on the side.
Save to Pinterest Serve this comforting casserole straight from the oven and watch it disappear. It is sure to bring plenty of smiles around your table!
Answers to Recipe Questions
- → Can I use rotisserie chicken for this casserole?
Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken works well and saves time while maintaining great flavor and texture.
- → Is it possible to make this dish spicier?
Increase cayenne pepper or add diced jalapeños to intensify the heat to your personal taste.
- → Can the casserole be prepared ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble everything, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking for easy meal prep.
- → What type of cheese is best for this dish?
Sharp cheddar cheese is recommended for its robust flavor and melting quality, but any melting cheese works well.
- → Can I swap spaghetti for a different pasta?
Yes, substitute spaghetti with other similar pastas like linguine or penne for a different texture.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Cool and store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat before serving.