Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and comforting textures. This hearty casserole is perfect for family dinners or potlucks. It’s a one-dish meal that brings everyone together, making it a favorite in many homes.
Table of Contents
Why make this recipe
There are many reasons to make Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole. First, it’s easy to prepare, allowing you to spend more time with family rather than in the kitchen. Second, the mix of cheesy, spicy, and savory flavors keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Finally, it’s a great way to use chicken breast and turn simple ingredients into a satisfying meal.
How to make 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 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.
Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
A delightful dish that combines rich flavors and comforting textures, making it perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
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.
- 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), then 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.
Notes
Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste. Consider using rotisserie chicken for ease, or add extra veggies.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Poultry
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
How to serve Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Serve the casserole warm, directly from the oven. It pairs well with a side salad or some crusty bread. For a special touch, consider adding extra sliced green onions or a sprinkle of extra cheese on top when serving.
How to store Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely, then cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing the casserole. Just wrap it tightly and it will last up to three months in the freezer.
Tips to make Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
- Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste. Add more cayenne pepper if you like it spicier.
- You can use rotisserie chicken to save time. Just shred it and mix it with the other ingredients.
- If you want more veggies, add in some spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition.
Variations
You can switch up the type of cheese used. Try pepper jack for added spice or mozzarella for a milder flavor. Additionally, you can make this a vegetarian dish by using mushrooms or beans instead of chicken.
FAQs
1. Can I use whole wheat spaghetti instead?
Yes, whole wheat spaghetti is a great alternative and will add more fiber!
2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it the night before and simply bake it when you’re ready to eat.
3. What can I serve with this casserole?
Serve it with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a delicious and satisfying meal that is easy to prepare and full of flavor. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that everyone will love. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this casserole is sure to please!
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