Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting dish that perfectly blends a little heat, melty cheese, and classic Southern flavors, then the Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is your new best friend in the kitchen. This dish brings together tender chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and a spicy kick from cayenne and paprika, all wrapped up in creamy cheese and spaghetti. It’s the kind of meal that warms your soul and invites you to dig in again and again, whether for a family dinner or a crowd-pleasing potluck.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple yet essential ingredients is what makes this Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole so approachable. Each element plays a crucial role — from the sharp cheddar that adds richness to the colorful bell peppers for a fresh bite, and spices that bring the signature Southern heat.

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: About 1.5 pounds, the star protein, cooked until tender and juicy.
• Spaghetti: 8 ounces, cooked al dente to provide that perfect bite and texture.
• Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: 2 cups, for a creamy, melty, cheesy topping and mix-in.
• Fresh bell peppers: 1 cup, chopped to bring a sweet crunch and beautiful color contrast.
• Cream of chicken soup: 10.5-ounce can, adds that smooth, hearty creaminess that ties everything together.
• Paprika: 1 teaspoon, infuses a smoky flavor that echoes Southern roots.
• Cayenne pepper: Half a teaspoon, for just the right spicy kick without overwhelming.
• Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon, enhancing depth and savoriness.
• Green onions: Quarter cup, sliced to garnish with a fresh and mild onion flavor.

How to Make Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Casserole Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a large casserole dish so your cheesy chicken spaghetti doesn’t stick when it bakes. This small step ensures easy serving and cleanup, setting you up for success as your kitchen fills with inviting aromas.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken Until Golden

Place your boneless chicken breasts in a large pot over medium heat. Cook each side for about 6 to 7 minutes until golden brown and completely cooked through. This ensures juicy, flavorful chicken that will shred beautifully and absorb all those delicious spices.

Step 3: Boil the Spaghetti to Al Dente

While the chicken cooks, bring salted water to a boil and toss in your spaghetti. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente, so it still has a slight firmness that holds up well in the casserole. Drain and set aside, ready to mingle with the rest of the ingredients.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients in a Bowl

In a large mixing bowl, shred the cooked chicken finely. Add the drained spaghetti, cream of chicken soup, chopped bell peppers, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and half of your shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Mix everything thoroughly so every bite bursts with flavor and gooey goodness.

Step 5: Bake Until Bubbly and Golden

Transfer this heavenly mixture into your prepared casserole dish and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top. Bake in your preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is bubbling and the top is beautifully golden brown, inviting you to serve up comfort in every spoonful.

Step 6: Rest and Garnish Before Serving

Once out of the oven, let your Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole rest for about 5 minutes. This step helps it set just enough to serve neatly. Sprinkle sliced green onions over the top for a burst of freshness and a pop of vibrant green that brightens every bite.

How to Serve Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Garnishes

Beyond the fresh green onions, consider a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or a dash of extra cayenne if you love that spicy edge. These little additions bring brightness and a hint of color contrast, making your dish pop both visually and in flavor.

Side Dishes

Serve this casserole with light, complementary sides like a crisp garden salad or roasted seasonal vegetables. Creamy coleslaw or buttery cornbread are perfect Southern-style companions that balance the richness and spice beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a casual family dinner, dish it straight from the casserole pan, letting everyone scoop their own generous servings. Hosting guests? Garnish individual plates with sliced avocado or a dollop of sour cream to mellow the heat. You can even add chopped crispy bacon on top for an irresistible smoky crunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain flavor and prevent drying out, so you can enjoy a quick and tasty meal another day.

Freezing

If you want to save this comforting casserole for longer, freeze it in a sealed container before baking or after cooling completely. It stays good for up to 2 months, making it a lifesaver for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave or oven until warm all the way through. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F to preserve moisture and keep the cheese perfectly melted without overcooking the chicken or drying out the pasta.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds flavor. Just shred it and mix it in the same way as cooked chicken breasts. It works beautifully in this casserole.

How spicy is the Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole?

The heat level is moderate, thanks to the cayenne pepper and paprika. You can easily adjust the spice by reducing cayenne for a milder taste or adding extra if you like it hotter.

Can I substitute the cream of chicken soup?

Yes, if you prefer a homemade touch or need a gluten-free option, you can make a simple white sauce or use a cream of mushroom soup instead. Just keep the creamy texture to maintain that classic casserole feel.

Is this casserole freezer-friendly before baking or after baking?

You can freeze it both before baking and once fully cooked, though freezing before baking is great for meal prep. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking for best results.

What cheese works best in this recipe?

Sharp cheddar cheese is ideal for that tangy, melty consistency, but you can mix in Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for extra creaminess and spice.

Final Thoughts

This Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a wonderfully comforting dish that satisfies cravings for something rich, cheesy, and with just the right amount of Southern-inspired spice. It’s easy enough for a weeknight meal but special enough to share at gatherings. Once you try it, I’m sure it will become a beloved recipe in your kitchen too.

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