Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that perfectly blends heat, comfort, and ooey-gooey cheese, look no further than this Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole. Combining tender chicken, al dente spaghetti, vibrant bell peppers, and a kick of southern spice, this casserole is pure magic in a dish. Each bite offers a warm, hearty, and slightly spicy flavor that’s impossible not to love — it’s like a hug from the South with a cheesy, spicy twist that will quickly become your go-to recipe for family dinners or casual get-togethers.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together effortlessly to create a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. Every item on this list is straightforward but essential — the tender chicken provides protein, the spaghetti offers a comforting base, and the cheese? Well, it’s the indulgent glue that holds everything deliciously together.

• 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs): Chicken adds lean protein with a mild flavor that soaks up the spices beautifully.
• 8 oz spaghetti: The perfect pasta shape to carry the creamy, cheesy sauce throughout the casserole.
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Sharpness in cheese boosts flavor depth and gives that irresistible melty texture.
• 1 cup fresh bell peppers (chopped): Adds a subtle sweetness and vibrant color to brighten the dish.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: Acts as a creamy base to bind ingredients and ensure a luscious consistency.
• 1 tsp paprika: Brings a smoky warmth essential to that southern flair.
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper: Delivers a gentle but noticeable spicy kick that wakes up the dish.
• 1 tsp garlic powder: Layers in aromatic depth without overpowering.
• 1/4 cup green onions (sliced): Used as a fresh, crisp garnish that adds a zesty finish.

How to Make Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Step 1: Prep and Preheat

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a large casserole dish. This ensures your casserole won’t stick and will come out with a golden crust that’s just begging to be devoured.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large pot over medium heat, cook the chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes on each side until they develop a golden exterior and are cooked through. This step is key for juicy, flavorful chicken that forms the heart of the dish.

Step 3: Cook the Spaghetti

Boil salted water and cook your spaghetti until al dente — around 8 to 10 minutes. The slightly firm texture will hold up beautifully once baked in the casserole.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, shred the cooked chicken and toss it together with the cooked spaghetti, cream of chicken soup, chopped bell peppers, paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. This mix is where all the vibrant flavors and textures merge to create that signature Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole taste.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Transfer your flavorful mixture into the greased casserole dish, then sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly on top. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the casserole bubbles with simmering warmth and sports a golden, cheesy crust you can’t wait to dig into.

Step 6: Let it Rest and Garnish

Once out of the oven, allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the flavors settle and the cheese set just right. Sprinkle sliced green onions over the top for a fresh burst of color and crunch before serving.

How to Serve Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Garnishes

Fresh green onions are a classic garnish here, adding brightness and a little crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy casserole. If you want to mix it up, try a sprinkling of chopped fresh parsley or a few thin slices of jalapeño for extra heat and color.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs wonderfully with simple, fresh sides. Consider a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some steamed green beans to balance out the richness. Cornbread or soft dinner rolls also complement the southern vibes and soak up any leftover cheesy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist at dinner parties, serve this casserole in individual ramekins to offer personalized portions. Or, scoop it into hollowed-out bell peppers and bake a little extra for a festive, colorful presentation that highlights the peppers inside the casserole.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just cover it tightly to keep moisture locked in without drying out that cheesy topping.

Freezing

This casserole freezes well, too! Prepare it fully, then let it cool before wrapping it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and placing it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 3 months, ready to thaw and reheat for an easy meal on busy days.

Reheating

Reheat your leftovers gently in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through, which helps maintain that crispy top and creamy interior. Microwaving works, too, but the texture won’t be quite the same, so oven reheating is your best bet.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that saves time without sacrificing flavor. Just shred the chicken and mix it in at step 4 as instructed.

Is this casserole very spicy?

The spice level is moderate thanks to the cayenne pepper and paprika. You can always adjust the cayenne to your heat preference — reduce it for milder flavors or add a bit more if you love it fiery.

Can I substitute another type of cheese for cheddar?

You can! Pepper jack or Monterey Jack cheeses add a nice melt and complementary flavor, while mozzarella will keep things milder and gooier.

What can I serve if someone is gluten-free?

Swap out regular spaghetti for gluten-free pasta to keep the dish gluten-free. Just make sure to check if your cream of chicken soup is also gluten-free or substitute it with a homemade roux-based sauce.

How long does it take to prepare this casserole from start to finish?

Including prep, cooking, and baking, expect about 1 hour. Most of the time is hands-off, especially while baking, so it’s perfect for a leisurely afternoon cooking session.

Final Thoughts

This Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a true crowd-pleaser, full of warmth, spice, and cheesy goodness that invites smiles with every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish delivers classic southern comfort with a lively twist. Don’t be surprised if it quickly becomes a staple in your recipe box — it’s just that good!

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