Name: Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
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

Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a delightful blend of creamy, cheesy, and spicy flavors. It combines tender chicken, fresh veggies, and pasta all baked together until bubbly and golden brown. This dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or whenever you crave comfort food with a kick. It’s simple to make, filling, and sure to please everyone at your table.

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 per side until golden and cooked through.
Boil salted water and cook spaghetti until al dente (around 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
In a bowl, mix 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 from the oven. It pairs well with a simple green salad or some crusty bread. You can add extra chopped green onions on top for added flavor and color.

How to Store Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

If you have leftovers, let the casserole cool completely before storing. Place it in an airtight container in the fridge where it will last for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it after baking. Just make sure to wrap it tightly or use a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 2-3 months in the freezer.

Tips to Make Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

If you like a stronger kick, feel free to add more cayenne pepper or even crushed red pepper flakes.
For a healthier version, you can substitute whole wheat spaghetti and low-fat cheese.
Try adding other veggies like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrients.

Variation

You can customize this casserole to your liking. If you prefer a milder version, you can omit the cayenne pepper. You can also use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, for a different flavor profile.

FAQs

1. Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Yes, using leftover or rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred it and mix it into the casserole as directed.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole the day before, refrigerate it, and bake it when you’re ready to serve.

3. Is there a vegetarian option for this casserole?
Yes! You can replace the chicken with cooked lentils or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken soup for a vegetarian version.