There’s something truly heartwarming about a hearty casserole that brings everyone together, especially on a busy weeknight. This Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is not just another dinner option; it’s a comforting hug on a plate! With its creamy texture, bold flavors, and cheesy goodness, it has become a staple in many homes, often served at potlucks or family gatherings. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply need a cozy dinner for your family, this dish promises to be a hit every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll find yourself heading back for seconds with this mouthwatering casserole! It’s rich, comforting, and easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy nights when you just want something delicious without a lot of fuss. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, allowing you to serve up a crowd-pleaser without breaking the bank. Just reading about it gets people’s mouths watering!
"This casserole is the perfect mix of creamy, cheesy, and a little kick! My family devoured it in minutes!"
How to Make Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Creating this delicious casserole is straightforward and fun. The characteristic layers of shredded chicken, tender spaghetti, and vibrant peppers meld together beautifully in a creamy sauce that will have everyone coming back for more. Let’s dig into what you need to whip this up and get those taste buds tingling!
Ingredients
Gather these items to create your Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole:
- 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)
Quick Substitutions: If you’re out of cream of chicken soup, try using cream of mushroom or even a homemade version. For a lighter option, swap out half of the cheese for a reduced-fat version, or add some extra veggies like zucchini or spinach to up the nutrition.
Directions
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a large casserole dish.
- In a large pot, cook the chicken over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes per side until it’s golden brown and cooked through.
- Boil salted water in another pot and cook the spaghetti until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked spaghetti, cream of chicken soup, chopped bell peppers, spices, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is well mixed.
- Transfer this mixture to the greased casserole dish and evenly top it with the remaining cheddar cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until it’s bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Once out of the oven, let it rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is hearty enough to stand on its own, but there are plenty of delicious sides to accompany it! A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs beautifully, adding a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole. For something a little heartier, consider garlic bread or cornbread to soak up all that creamy goodness.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it; it can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Just be sure to let it cool completely before sealing it tightly. When it’s time to reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Pro Tips
To make your casserole even more flavorful, consider marinating the chicken in your favorite spices or hot sauce beforehand. If you enjoy a bit more texture, throw in some crushed crackers or breadcrumbs on top before baking for a delightful crunch. And don’t hesitate to customize the spice levels based on your family’s preferences!
Variations
Feeling adventurous? Add some diced jalapeños for an extra spicy kick, or swap the cheddar for pepper jack cheese for a zesty twist. You can even turn this casserole into a creamy white sauce version by incorporating some Alfredo sauce. The possibilities are endless, and each variant adds its own unique flair!
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of pasta for this casserole?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is the traditional choice, feel free to use penne, fusilli, or any pasta shape you prefer.
2. Is this casserole suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s perfect for meal prepping! Make ahead of time, freeze, and have a delicious homemade meal ready when you need it.
3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Of course! Simply omit the chicken and substitute with your favorite plant-based protein, like chickpeas or tofu, and add more vegetables for a hearty vegetarian option.
Explore more comforting recipes with a flavorful twist in my collection! Take a look at the easy weeknight dinners or creamy pasta dishes.
Print
Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A rich and comforting casserole featuring tender chicken, creamy sauce, and cheesy goodness, perfect for busy weeknights and family gatherings.
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)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large casserole dish.
- In a large pot, cook the chicken over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Boil salted water in another pot and cook the spaghetti until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked spaghetti, cream of chicken soup, chopped bell peppers, spices, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until well mixed.
- Transfer this mixture to the greased casserole dish and evenly top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Notes
For variations, consider adding diced jalapeños or using pepper jack cheese for a spicier twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg