Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
why make this recipe
Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a delicious and hearty dish that brings comfort and flavor to any table. It’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. The spicy kick from the cayenne pepper pairs wonderfully with the creamy cheddar and tender chicken, making it a favorite for many. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be adjusted to your taste.
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 (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 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 warm on its own or pair it with a fresh green salad for a complete meal. You can also enjoy it with some crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
how to store Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the fridge. It will keep well for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving.
tips to make Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
- For even more flavor, consider adding some diced tomatoes or hot sauce to the mixture.
- Use different types of cheese to change up the flavor, like pepper jack for extra spice.
- You can make this dish ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
variation
For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with cooked beans or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of the cream of chicken soup. You can also skip the cayenne for a milder dish.
FAQs
Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Yes, leftover cooked chicken works great in this casserole. Just shred it and mix it in.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish and refrigerate it overnight before baking it the next day.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs nicely with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.
Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- 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 (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 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.
