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Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
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★★★★★

4.7 from 28 reviews

This Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, melted sharp cheddar cheese, and a spicy kick from paprika and cayenne pepper. Perfect for a hearty family dinner, this casserole blends creamy sauce with the satisfying texture of spaghetti and fresh bell peppers for a deliciously spicy Southern twist.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Pasta

  • 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
  • 8 oz spaghetti

Cheese and Sauce

  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup

Vegetables and Seasonings

  • 1 cup fresh bell peppers (chopped)
  • 1/4 cup green onions (sliced)
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Cook the Chicken: Poach or boil the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in simmering water until fully cooked, about 15-20 minutes. Once cooked, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks or chop finely.
  2. Prepare the Spaghetti: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. Mix the Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir well to blend the spices evenly into the sauce.
  4. Add Vegetables and Chicken: Fold in the shredded chicken, chopped fresh bell peppers, and sliced green onions into the sauce mixture, stirring gently to coat everything evenly.
  5. Combine with Spaghetti: Add the cooked spaghetti to the bowl with the sauce and chicken mixture. Toss thoroughly to ensure the pasta is well coated with the cheesy, spicy sauce.
  6. Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
  7. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
  8. Serve: Remove from oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy the cheesy, spicy Southern goodness hot.

Notes

  • You can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts for a juicier texture.
  • Adjust cayenne pepper amount to your desired spice level.
  • Adding a splash of hot sauce before baking can enhance the heat.
  • For a creamier casserole, mix in 1/2 cup sour cream or cream cheese.
  • Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken spaghetti casserole, spicy chicken casserole, Southern chicken casserole, cheesy chicken pasta, baked spaghetti dish

Find it online: https://spatulaqueen.com/spicy-southern-cheesy-chicken-spaghetti-casserole-recipe/