Irresistible Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

There’s nothing quite like the first whiff of a bubbling Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole wafting through your kitchen. It’s like a warm hug from grandma that wraps you in cheesy goodness, with a spicy kick to make your taste buds dance. cheesy bread pudding Picture this: tender chicken swimming in creamy, dreamy cheese sauce, intertwined with spaghetti and topped with a golden crust that crackles under your fork. creamy pasta dish This dish is not just food; it’s comfort poured into a casserole dish.

Now, let’s be honest. There’s something deeply satisfying about gathering friends and family around the dinner table for this glorious meal. Whether it’s a chilly fall evening or a casual Sunday gathering, serving up Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole instantly elevates the occasion. crockpot casserole option You’ll hear the forks clinking, the laughter bubbling up, and you might even catch someone sneaking seconds when they think you’re not looking. Trust me; this recipe promises to make you the superstar chef of your household.

I’ll never forget the time I brought this casserole to a potluck and watched as my friends fought over the last bits of cheesy goodness. It was like watching hawks swoop down on their prey—delightfully chaotic!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Around 3-4 chicken breasts work well; adjust according to your crowd size.

• Spaghetti: Use regular or whole wheat spaghetti; both hold up beautifully in this casserole.

• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar for that extra punch of flavor that melts perfectly.

• Cream of Chicken Soup: Choose low-fat options if you’re trying to keep things light while still creamy.

• Bell Peppers: Dice colorful bell peppers for added crunch and sweetness; they brighten up the dish visually.

• Onion: A diced onion brings aromatic sweetness; sauté until translucent for best flavor.

• Garlic Powder: A sprinkle adds depth; fresh garlic can also be used for more intensity.

• Cayenne Pepper: Adjust according to your spice tolerance; it adds that beloved southern kick.

• Panko Breadcrumbs: For topping, panko gives an irresistible crunch that contrasts with creamy textures beneath.

• Olive Oil: Just a drizzle helps everything meld together beautifully during baking.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat Your Oven and Prep Your Dish: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray so nothing sticks later.

Sauté The Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add some olive oil and toss in diced chicken breasts. Cook until golden brown and no longer pink inside—about 6-8 minutes.

Add Vegetables: Stir in diced onions and bell peppers into the skillet. Sauté until soft and fragrant—this should take another 4-5 minutes.

Mingle The Sauces: In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and half of your shredded cheese. Mix well until creamy and smooth.

Toss Everything Together: Add cooked spaghetti and sautéed chicken mixture into the bowl with the sauce. chicken pasta delight Mix thoroughly until every strand of pasta is coated in cheesy goodness.

Bake Until Golden: Transfer everything into your greased casserole dish. Top with remaining cheese and sprinkle panko breadcrumbs over the top for crunch. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.

And there you have it! Your Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is ready to steal the show at any gathering or cozy night in! Serve hot straight from the oven—just be prepared for compliments (and maybe some jealous stares)! For more inspiration, check out this jalapeno buffalo chicken casserole recipe.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken for that juicy flavor, then boil the pasta while preparing your sauce to maximize efficiency.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for turkey or add veggies like bell peppers for extra crunch and flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the microwave or oven until bubbly to maintain creaminess.

I remember one family gathering when I served this casserole; everyone couldn’t get enough! It warmed my heart to see how much they enjoyed it.

FAQ

Can I make Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge.

What can I substitute for chicken in this casserole?

You can use shredded rotisserie chicken or even cooked sausage for variation.

How spicy is this Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole?

The spice level is adjustable; use less hot sauce for milder flavors if desired.

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Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

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• Author: Luna Martinez
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8

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Description

Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, blending tender chicken, creamy cheese sauce, and spaghetti into a delightful dish that will warm your heart. With a hint of spice and a satisfying crunch from the panko topping, this casserole is perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners. Ready in under an hour, it promises to be a crowd-pleaser that keeps everyone coming back for more!

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Ingredients

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• 3 cups boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 8 oz spaghetti
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup (low-fat)
• 1 cup bell peppers, diced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tsp olive oil

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large casserole dish.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and cook diced chicken until golden brown (6-8 minutes).
3. Add onions and bell peppers to the skillet; sauté until soft (4-5 minutes).
4. In a bowl, mix cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and half of the cheddar cheese until smooth.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti and chicken mixture with the sauce until well-coated.
6. Transfer to the casserole dish; top with remaining cheese and panko breadcrumbs.
7. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 85mg