Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
This Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a bold and comforting baked pasta dish packed with tender chicken, melty cheddar cheese, and just the right amount of heat. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, this easy Southern-style casserole delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- 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
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ¼ cup green onions, sliced
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large casserole dish.
- Cook chicken in a skillet over medium heat for 6–7 minutes per side until cooked through. Let rest, then shred.
- Boil spaghetti in salted water until al dente (8–10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix shredded chicken, cooked spaghetti, cream of chicken soup, bell peppers, paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and half the cheddar cheese.
- Transfer mixture to prepared dish and top with remaining cheddar.
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
- Let rest 5 minutes, then sprinkle with green onions and serve.
Notes
- Add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce for extra heat.
- Substitute Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a creamy, spicy twist.
- Add veggies like mushrooms, spinach, or corn to bulk it up.
- Stir in a splash of milk or cream for a silkier texture.
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Store leftovers for up to 3 days in the fridge and reheat with a splash of broth or water if dry.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
