Go Back
Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole - Easy Dinner Recipe

Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

A creamy, cheesy casserole with tender chicken, spaghetti, and Southern spices that creates the perfect comfort food for family dinners.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 380

Ingredients
  

  • 3-4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts about 1.5 lbs
  • 8 oz spaghetti
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1 cup fresh bell peppers chopped
  • 1 can cream of chicken soup 10.5 oz
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 cup green onions sliced
  • 1 tsp salt to taste
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch casserole dish
  • Large pot
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease a 9x13 inch casserole dish. Position oven rack in the center. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and half of the garlic powder.
  2. Cook the chicken in a large pot over medium heat for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove from heat, let cool slightly, then shred into bite-sized pieces using two forks.
  3. In the same pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti until al dente, about 1-2 minutes less than package directions. Drain well.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked spaghetti, cream of chicken soup, chopped bell peppers, paprika, cayenne pepper, remaining garlic powder, and 1 1/2 cups of the cheddar cheese. Mix thoroughly until everything is evenly coated.
  5. Transfer the mixture to your prepared casserole dish and top with the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
  6. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh green onions for a pop of color and fresh flavor.

Notes

This casserole can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerated before baking. Adjust spice levels to taste - start with less cayenne if sensitive to heat. Cook pasta 1-2 minutes less than package directions since it continues cooking in the oven.