Hey friends! If you’re craving comfort food with a bit of kick, this Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is made just for you. Imagine ooey-gooey cheese, tender chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and a creamy sauce—all baked till golden and bubbly. It feels like home in a baking dish. 🥘
When the weather turns cooler, or when you need something that hugs you from the inside out, I reach for this casserole. It’s one of those meals that fills the kitchen with fragrant spices and gets everyone asking for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Heart-warming comfort food: It hits all the cozy notes—cheese, cream, chicken, pasta—with a Southern twist.
- Just enough spice: Not tongue-burning, but enough cayenne and paprika to make your tastebuds dance. You can dial it back or up.
- Crowd-pleaser, yet simple: Great for family dinners, potlucks, or a lazy Sunday. Minimal fuss, big payoff.
- Make-it-your-own potential: Veggie versions, swapping pasta, adjusting cheese – possibilities galore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what brings this casserole to life. Read through first so you don’t get surprised halfway through!
- 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (≈ 1.5 lb / ~700g)
- 8 oz (≈ 225g) spaghetti (you can also use penne or rotini)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup fresh bell peppers, chopped (red or yellow are pretty & sweet)
- 1 can (10.5 oz / ~300ml) cream of chicken soup
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (or less if you prefer mild heat)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- ¼ cup green onions (scallions), thinly sliced (for garnish)
Equipment
- Large pot to cook chicken
- Large saucepan for boiling pasta
- Large mixing bowl
- 9×13-inch (or similar) casserole dish
- Oven preheated to 350°F (175°C)
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Sharp knife & chopping board
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish (or something similar) with a little butter or non-stick spray so nothing sticks. - Cook the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a little paprika. In a sauté pan over medium heat, cook chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes on each side (until the inside reaches 165°F / 74°C and juices run clear). Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes, then shred or cut into bite-sized pieces. - Boil the Pasta
While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti (or your choice of pasta) and cook until al dente (you still want a bit of resistance). That’s about 8-10 minutes. Drain, toss with a tiny splash of oil if you like, and set aside. - Mix Creamy Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cooked pasta, cream of chicken soup, chopped bell peppers, paprika, cayenne, garlic powder. Taste and add a little more salt or pepper if needed. Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese so it melts into the mix. - Assemble & Bake
Transfer the creamy mixture into your prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle the rest of the cheddar cheese on top, covering evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until edges are bubbling and the top is golden brown and slightly crisp in spots. - Rest & Sprinkle
Take the casserole out of the oven and let it rest for at least 5 minutes. This helps it set so it holds together nicely when you scoop. Just before serving, sprinkle green onions over the top for freshness, color, and a mild bite.
Tips & Variations
- If you’re “heat-shy,” start with ¼ tsp cayenne, taste after the mix is done, then add more before baking if you want.
- Swap sharp cheddar with colby jack, Monterey Jack, or a mix of cheeses for a milder, or creamier texture.
- Vegetarians: replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or roasted cauliflower; use a plant-based “cream of” soup.
- Gluten-free: use gluten-free pasta and ensure your cream of chicken soup or substitute is GF.
- Add veggies: diced zucchini, corn, spinach can boost color and nutrition.
Serving Ideas
- Pair with a crisp green salad (something with vinegar or citrus to cut through the richness).
- Serve with crusty bread or garlic bread so people can mop up the creamy sauce.
- Add a side of roasted vegetables (e.g. broccoli, carrots) for color, texture, and balance.
Storage & Reheating
- Make-ahead: You can assemble everything the day before (minus the cheese on top), keep covered in the fridge, then bake when ready.
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: If you want to freeze, assemble in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in fridge overnight before baking, possibly adding a few minutes.
- Reheating: Oven method is best (about 350°F / 175°C for 15-20 minutes) to regain crisp top. Microwave works too — just cover and heat gently, sprinkle a little extra cheese to freshen it.
Conclusion
This Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole isn’t just a recipe—it’s a warm invitation to gather around the table, laugh loudly, and share comfort in every cheesy bite. Whether it’s a busy weeknight, a weekend treat, or you just need a hug in food form, this casserole delivers. 💛
May your kitchen feel cozy, your plate be full, and your heart even fuller. Happy cooking!
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