Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Why Make This Recipe

Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a perfect dish for family meals or gatherings. This recipe brings together tender chicken, creamy sauce, and cheesy goodness all in one dish. It’s not only delicious but also easy to make, making it a great choice for busy weeknights. Plus, the hint of spice adds a fun kick that everyone will love!

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How to Make Spicy Southern Cheesy 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:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large casserole dish.
2. Cook the chicken in a large pot over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
3. Boil salted water and cook spaghetti until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
4. In a bowl, mix shredded chicken, cooked spaghetti, cream of chicken soup, bell peppers, spices, and half of the cheddar cheese until well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to the greased casserole dish and top with remaining cheese. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
6. Let it rest for 5 minutes before garnishing with chopped green onions and serving.

How to Serve Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

This casserole is best served warm. You can enjoy it on its own or pair it with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. The cheesy topping and flavorful mix make it a standout dish at any dining table!

How to Store Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

If you have leftovers, let the casserole cool completely before storing it. Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it in the oven until heated through.

Tips to Make Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

• For extra flavor, add some cooked bacon or sausage to the casserole.
• Use different types of cheese, like Monterey Jack or pepper jack, for a new twist.
• Adjust the spice level by adding more or less cayenne pepper depending on your preference.

Variation

You can easily make this recipe vegetarian by replacing the chicken with cooked beans or extra vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms. Just make sure to adjust cooking time accordingly!

FAQs

1. Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Yes! Leftover rotisserie chicken works perfectly for this dish. Just shred it and mix it in.

2. How spicy is this casserole?
The spice level mainly comes from the cayenne pepper. You can reduce or omit it if you prefer a milder dish.

3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the fridge before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s chilled.

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