Name: Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 8 oz spaghetti (Cook until al dente); 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (Divided); 1 cup fresh bell peppers (chopped); 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz) (Can be substituted with homemade béchamel); 1 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (Adjust for heat preference); 1 tsp garlic powder; 1/4 cup green onions (sliced) (For garnish)

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Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole brings together the comforting embrace of pasta and cheese, elevated with the bold flavors of southern spices. This dish is a delightful blend of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and a cheesy topping that makes it a true favorite around family dinner tables. I’ve made this recipe countless times, especially on busy weeknights or when entertaining friends, and every time, it wins over everyone’s hearts (and stomachs). The combination of flavors and textures creates a satisfying meal that’s sure to become a staple in your home as well.

Why you’ll love this dish

This Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a perfect example of comfort food that also delivers convenience. It’s quick to prepare, budget-friendly, and kid-approved — making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. Plus, the dish is easily customizable to accommodate different tastes. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or craving something hearty at the end of a long day, this casserole will deliver flavor and satisfaction without the fuss.

“This casserole was a hit! Everyone went back for seconds, and I loved how simple it was to make." – A happy home cook

How this recipe comes together

Making this casserole is a straightforward process that yields delicious results. You’ll start by cooking the chicken and spaghetti, then combine them with vibrant bell peppers and a creamy sauce before topping it all off with gooey cheddar cheese. With just a handful of steps, you’ll have a mouth-watering dish ready to bake in the oven.

What you’ll need

Gather up these ingredients to get started on 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)

Note: Feel free to substitute the cream of chicken soup with a homemade béchamel if you prefer a from-scratch route.

Step-by-step 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 or until it’s golden brown and completely cooked through.
While the chicken cooks, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain 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 cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is well mixed.
Transfer the mixture to your greased casserole dish and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and the top is golden brown.
Allow it to rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with sliced green onions before serving.

Best ways to enjoy it

Serving this casserole is just as fun as making it! You can dish it out into individual bowls or serve family-style directly from the casserole dish. Pair it with a refreshing green salad or steamed broccoli for a balanced meal. A side of garlic bread could make it even better, adding that extra crunch and a comforting touch.

Storage and reheating tips

To keep your leftover Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole fresh, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay good in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole for up to 2-3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions on medium heat until hot.

Helpful cooking tips

Here are some pro tips to elevate your Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole:

To save time, you can use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own.
For an extra kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or extra cayenne pepper.
Make it a one-pot meal by cooking the chicken and spaghetti together; just ensure they finish cooking at the same time.

Creative twists

While this recipe is fantastic on its own, don’t hesitate to mix things up! You could try adding cooked and crumbled bacon for a smoky flavor or swap out the chicken for shredded turkey if you have leftovers from Thanksgiving. Different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack can also add new dimensions to the dish.

Your questions answered

What’s the total prep time for this casserole?
The prep time is around 25 minutes, with a cooking time of about 30 minutes, making it a great option for busy evenings.

Can I substitute the cream of chicken soup?
Yes, you can use a homemade béchamel or even a different cream soup like mushroom if you want to switch things up.

How long can I keep leftovers in the fridge?
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just make sure they are kept in an airtight container.

Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! It freezes well for about 2-3 months. Just be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.

This Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is not just a recipe; it’s an experience that holds the power to turn any ordinary day into something special. So go ahead, whip it up, and enjoy the delightful fusion of flavors!