If you’ve ever dreamed of a dish that combines bold flavors with comforting, cheesy goodness, look no further than this Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole. It’s everything you want in one irresistible meal—tender chicken, perfectly cooked spaghetti, a spicy kick, and plenty of melty sharp cheddar cheese to bring it all together. This casserole is the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, bursting with Southern charm and a little bit of heat to keep things exciting.

Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients for this Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a breeze because each one plays a crucial role. From the succulent chicken to the vibrant bell peppers and the creamy soup, every component adds perfect balance, texture, and flavor.

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (3-4, about 1.5 lbs): The hearty protein base that stays juicy and tender when cooked right.
Spaghetti (8 oz): Provides that classic pasta foundation with a satisfying bite.
Shredded sharp cheddar cheese (2 cups): Sharp and melty, it lends rich cheesiness and a golden finish to the casserole.
Fresh bell peppers (1 cup, chopped): Adds a colorful crunch and subtle sweetness to balance the spices.
Cream of chicken soup (1 can, 10.5 oz): Creates a creamy, luscious sauce that ties all ingredients together effortlessly.
Paprika (1 tsp): Brings smoky warmth and a beautiful red hue that piques your appetite.
Cayenne pepper (1/2 tsp): Delivers the perfect level of spice without overpowering the dish.
Garlic powder (1 tsp): Infuses a savory depth that enhances all the other flavors.
Green onions (1/4 cup, sliced): A fresh, sharp garnish that adds a burst of color and mild bite.

How to Make Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Casserole Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large casserole dish so your comfort meal won’t stick and will come out perfectly baked with a gorgeous crust.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken to Tender Perfection

Cook your chicken breasts in a large pot over medium heat. Let them sizzle and brown for about 6 to 7 minutes on each side. You’re looking for a golden exterior and juicy inside. Once cooked through, shred or chop them to mix into your casserole.

Step 3: Boil Spaghetti Until Al Dente

Boil salted water and cook the spaghetti for 8 to 10 minutes. You want the noodles tender but with a slight bite to hold up well in the creamy casserole. Drain and set aside to cool just a bit.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients for Ultimate Flavor

In a large bowl, mix together the cooked chicken, spaghetti, cream of chicken soup, chopped bell peppers, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir it all carefully to distribute flavors evenly. This is where the magic truly blends.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Pour the flavorful mixture into your greased casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top to create that irresistible melty, golden crust. Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until it’s bubbly and perfectly browned.

Step 6: Rest and Garnish

Allow the casserole to rest for at least 5 minutes when it comes out of the oven. This helps everything set up nicely. Just before serving, sprinkle sliced green onions over the top for a fresh burst of flavor and vibrant color.

How to Serve Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Garnishes

While the sliced green onions add a sharp, fresh finish, feel free to add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro if you love a little extra brightness in your dish. A dash of hot sauce on the side is perfect for those who crave even more heat.

Side Dishes

This casserole is hearty on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables can add crunch and balance to your meal. Cornbread or warm dinner rolls also complement the Southern vibe effortlessly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve individual portions in ramekins topped with extra cheese melted under a broiler for a few minutes. Alternatively, use colorful bell pepper halves as edible bowls to hold the casserole for a stunning presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 3 days and tastes just as comforting when reheated.

Freezing

If you want to save this deliciousness for later, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then store in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes, to keep the cheese melty and the crust crisp. Microwaving works for a quick fix but may result in a softer texture.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken can save time and add extra flavor. Just shred the meat and proceed with the recipe as usual.

Is this casserole very spicy?

The dish has a pleasant kick from the cayenne pepper but is not overwhelmingly spicy. You can adjust the amount of cayenne to suit your heat preference.

Can I substitute another type of cheese?

Cheddar is classic here, but you can experiment with Monterey Jack or a blend of cheeses for different flavor profiles and meltability.

What type of bell peppers work best?

Any color bell pepper works wonderfully, but using a mix of red, yellow, and green peppers adds beautiful color and a lovely balance of sweetness.

Is this casserole gluten-free?

The classic recipe uses regular spaghetti, which contains gluten, but swapping in gluten-free pasta will make it suitable for a gluten-free diet without compromising taste.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dinner that’s bursting with Southern flavor, cheesy comfort, and just the right amount of spice, this Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a must-try. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a celebration every time it’s on the table. I hope you enjoy making and sharing it as much as I do!

Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 18 reviews

Author: Julian
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Low Lactose

Print Recipe

Description

This Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked spaghetti, sharp cheddar cheese, and a kick of paprika and cayenne pepper. Baked until bubbly and golden, it’s a hearty one-dish meal perfect for family dinners or potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Meat

3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)

Pasta

8 oz spaghetti

Dairy

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup

Vegetables

1 cup fresh bell peppers (chopped)
1/4 cup green onions (sliced)

Spices

1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
1 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large casserole dish to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Cook Chicken: In a large pot over medium heat, cook the chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove from heat and shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Cook Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked spaghetti, cream of chicken soup, chopped bell peppers, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Assemble Casserole: Transfer the mixture into the greased casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top to create a cheesy crust.
Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Rest and Garnish: Remove from oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with sliced green onions before serving to add a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color.

Notes

Use sharp cheddar cheese for a bold flavor and excellent melting properties.
You can substitute cream of chicken soup with a homemade white sauce for a fresher taste.
Adjust cayenne pepper quantity to control the spice level according to your preference.
Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat thoroughly before serving.
This dish pairs well with a side of steamed greens or a simple salad to balance the richness.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Casserole
Method: Baking and Boiling
Cuisine: Southern American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup (about 200g)
Calories: 380 kcal
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 620mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0.3g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: chicken casserole, spicy chicken spaghetti, cheesy chicken bake, southern casserole, baked spaghetti, comfort food