Ben Kenwood November 24, 2025

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Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Name: Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 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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As the aroma of bubbling cheese and spices fills the kitchen, your heart warms at the idea of a cozy family gathering or a weeknight dinner. Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole brings together comforting textures and mouthwatering flavors, making it a wonderful addition to any meal. It’s that perfect dish to serve during chilly evenings or when you want something deliciously satisfying and easy to prepare.

What Makes This Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Special

This Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a delightful fusion of flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds. The creamy texture, complemented by the kick of spices and the richness of cheese, makes it a family favorite. Here are a few reasons to fall in love with this dish:

Comforting and hearty meal
Easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd
Packed with flavor thanks to savory spices
Excellent for meal prep or leftovers

Gather These Ingredients

To create this comforting casserole, you’ll need a selection of ingredients that harmonize in flavor and fulfill your cravings. Feel free to swap in turkey bacon for a lighter, leaner touch if desired. Here’s what you’ll need for the 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)

These ingredients come together to create a wonderfully indulgent comfort food that’s easy to prepare.

How to Cook Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Preparing this delicious Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is as easy as 1-2-3! Follow these simple steps for a dish that’s bound to impress:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large casserole dish to ensure your food releases easily once baked.
In a large pot, cook the chicken over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes per side until it turns golden brown and is cooked through. The tantalizing aroma will fill your kitchen.
While the chicken is cooking, boil salted water in another pot and cook the spaghetti until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the spaghetti and set it 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 well until completely mixed, with all those delicious flavors melding together.
Transfer the mixture into the greased casserole dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top to create a beautiful cheesy crust.
Bake the casserole in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until it is bubbly and golden brown. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges start to brown, and the kitchen fills with a warm, inviting scent.
After removing it from the oven, let it rest for about 5 minutes. Then, garnish with sliced green onions before serving to add a pop of color and flavor.

Prep ~ 15 minutes, Cook ~ 35 minutes, Total ~ 50 minutes, Servings ~ 6, Kcal ~ 500.

Plan Ahead

For those busy days when time is scarce, consider prepping your casserole in advance. You can cook the chicken and pasta ahead of time, and mix them with the remaining ingredients. Store the uncooked casserole in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to bake, simply follow the cooking instructions, increasing the baking time slightly if coming straight from the fridge.

How to Store Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers after enjoying this delightful meal, simply store the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3–4 days. If you wish to keep it longer, consider freezing portions. Just be sure to use a freezer-safe container, and it should remain delicious for up to 3 months. When reheating, gently warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through. A great way to check freshness is to ensure the casserole is heated to an even temperature throughout.

Serving Ideas

Pair your Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole with the following accompaniments for a complete meal:

A fresh garden salad with lemon vinaigrette
Garlic bread for a comforting touch
Steamed broccoli or green beans for an added crunch
Sweet cornbread on the side for delightful contrast
A creamy coleslaw to balance flavors
Sliced cucumbers with ranch dip for added freshness

Variations and Swaps

Make the Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole your own with these delightful variations:

Add Veggies: Incorporate other vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
Spice It Up: If you love heat, try adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mix.
Cheese Swap: Experiment with different cheese varieties like pepper jack for an extra spicy kick or mozzarella for a gooey texture.
Alternate Noodles: Use whole wheat or gluten-free spaghetti for health-conscious options without sacrificing taste.
Protein Options: Swap the chicken with ground turkey for a different texture and flavor profile.
Creamy Texture: For added creaminess, mix in a bit of sour cream or Greek yogurt into the casserole mix.
Herbs for Flavor: Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can elevate the dish with fresh, bright flavors.

Pro Tips for Best Results

Keep these expert tips in mind to achieve the best results with your casserole:

Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
Let the casserole rest after baking to allow the flavors to settle and make serving easier.
Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor and texture.
Rotate the casserole halfway through cooking for even browning.
If you prefer a crunchier top, broil for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole in advance?
Yes! You can prep, assemble, and refrigerate the casserole up to 24 hours before baking. Just allow for potential slight increases in cooking time.
What can I substitute for chicken?
Ground turkey or ground chicken works beautifully as alternatives while keeping the dish lean.
Is there a vegetarian version?
Yes, you can substitute the chicken with an assortment of chopped vegetables, or add legumes like black beans for a hearty option.
How should I store leftovers?
Store the cooled casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months for later enjoyment.
What cheese works best?
While sharp cheddar is a classic choice, you can use pepper jack for a spicier flair or mozzarella for a gooey, melty topping.

Final Thoughts

Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate. Its creamy, cheesy goodness, combined with a satisfying kick, makes it a dish you’re sure to turn to again and again. So gather your ingredients and enjoy the delightful experience of preparing this easy, flavorful casserole soon. It’s bound to become a family favorite at your dinner table!

Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Author: anastasia-rice
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

A delightful fusion of cheesy goodness and spices, perfect for cozy gatherings or weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

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). Grease a large casserole dish.
Cook the chicken over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
Boil salted water in another pot and cook the spaghetti until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cooked spaghetti, cream of chicken soup, chopped bell peppers, spices, and half of the cheddar cheese. Mix well.
Transfer the mixture into the greased casserole dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese on top.
Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
Let it rest for about 5 minutes, then garnish with sliced green onions before serving.