If you are craving a dish that bursts with bold flavors and comforting textures, look no further than this incredible Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole. It’s a delightful blend of tender chicken, sharp cheddar cheese, and just the right amount of heat from cayenne and paprika, all baked together with tender spaghetti and vibrant bell peppers. This casserole isn’t just dinner—it’s a warm, hearty hug on a plate that brings a little Southern soul to your table with every bite.

Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully simple but each plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and texture. From the juicy chicken breasts providing the hearty protein, to the sharp cheddar cheese melting into gooey perfection—every item contributes something special.

3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish, delivering tender, flavorful protein that holds everything together.
8 oz spaghetti: Cooks up nice and al dente to give the casserole a satisfying bite and soak up the creamy sauce.
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Adds a rich, tangy cheesiness that makes every forkful irresistible.
1 cup fresh bell peppers (chopped): Brightens the dish with color and a subtle sweetness that balances the spice.
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: The secret to a creamy, luscious sauce that ties the casserole together effortlessly.
1 tsp paprika: Delivers smoky warmth that deepens the Southern flavor profile.
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper: Brings a lively, spicy kick that makes this casserole uniquely memorable.
1 tsp garlic powder: Infuses the mixture with an aromatic punch that enhances every other ingredient.
1/4 cup green onions (sliced): Used as a fresh, crisp garnish giving a final burst of flavor and color.

How to Make Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Chicken

Start by heating a large pot over medium heat and cooking the chicken breasts until they’re beautifully golden on the outside and cooked through inside—about 6 to 7 minutes per side. This step seals in the juices so your casserole stays moist and flavorful.

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti Al Dente

While the chicken cooks, boil generously salted water and cook the spaghetti until it reaches that perfect al dente texture—tender but still with a little bite. This ensures your casserole won’t become mushy but will hold its shape beautifully.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

In a large bowl, shred the cooked chicken and mix it with the drained spaghetti, cream of chicken soup, chopped bell peppers, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and half of the sharp cheddar cheese. Stir everything gently until the ingredients are evenly combined and coated with that creamy, flavorful mixture.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Transfer the mixture into your greased casserole dish, making sure it’s spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top to create that irresistible golden crust. Slide it into your preheated 350°F (175°C) oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and a gorgeous golden brown.

Step 5: Rest and Garnish

Once baked, let your Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole rest for about 5 minutes. This brief pause lets everything set slightly for easier serving and allows the flavors to meld. Finally, top with fresh sliced green onions for a crisp and colorful finish that contrasts beautifully with the creamy, spicy casserole.

How to Serve Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Garnishes

Green onions are a simple but brilliant choice to brighten up the casserole visually and add a fresh, mild onion flavor on top. For an added touch, consider a small drizzle of hot sauce for those who love extra heat or a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of green.

Side Dishes

This casserole is quite hearty on its own, but pairing it with crisp side dishes makes for a perfectly balanced meal. A crunchy garden salad with a light vinaigrette or some roasted green beans adds freshness. Southern-style collard greens or cornbread are also excellent sides that complement the cheesy, spicy goodness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this casserole family-style straight from the baking dish to keep it warm and cozy during the meal. Alternatively, consider spooning portions into individual ramekins for a charming, personalized presentation. A sprinkle of extra shredded cheese and a dash of cayenne for guests who want a little more spice can make the experience even more exciting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually have extra time to mingle, making your second serving even tastier!

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, this casserole freezes wonderfully. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, or store in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing that perfect cheesy, spicy character.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, then warm it up in the oven at 350°F until heated through and bubbly again. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, but heating slowly at a medium power helps maintain the creamy texture without drying out.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking the chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that saves time and adds an extra depth of flavor. Just shred it and mix it right in the casserole.

How spicy is this dish? Can I adjust the heat?

The heat comes mostly from the cayenne pepper and paprika, which add a pleasant kick but aren’t overwhelming. Feel free to reduce or increase the cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Sharp cheddar works best for its bold flavor and melting quality, but you could also experiment with Monterey Jack or a blend of cheeses for a slightly different flavor profile.

Is this casserole gluten-free?

Not with traditional spaghetti and cream of chicken soup, but you can substitute gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free cream of chicken soup to make it safe for gluten-sensitive eaters.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying them out?

Reheating in the oven covered with foil helps keep moisture locked in. If using a microwave, adding a small splash of water and covering loosely with a microwave-safe lid can prevent dryness.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you try this Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole, it’s going to become a beloved go-to recipe in your kitchen. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm embrace on a plate and brings a little Southern-style comfort with a kick of spice. Give it a whirl soon—you’ll be so glad you did!

Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 29 reviews

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

Print Recipe

Description

A flavorful and comforting Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole featuring tender chicken breasts combined with al dente spaghetti, sharp cheddar cheese, and a blend of spices for a spicy kick. This hearty casserole is baked to bubbly perfection and topped with fresh green onions, making it a delicious Southern-inspired weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

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

Pasta

8 oz spaghetti

Dairy

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Vegetables

1 cup fresh bell peppers, chopped
1/4 cup green onions, sliced

Canned Goods

1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup

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 easy cleanup.
Cook Chicken: In a large pot over medium heat, cook the boneless, skinless chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes per side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove from heat and shred or chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Boil Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain thoroughly and set aside to cool slightly.
Prepare Mixture: 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. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Assemble Casserole: Transfer the mixture into the greased casserole dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
Bake: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.
Rest and Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to set. Garnish with sliced green onions before serving for a fresh, mild onion flavor and added color.

Notes

For extra heat, increase the cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
You can substitute cream of chicken soup with homemade white sauce if preferred.
If desired, use gluten-free spaghetti to make the dish gluten-free.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat leftovers in the oven for best texture, or microwave until warmed through.

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

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1/6 of casserole)
Calories: 420 kcal
Sugar: 3 g
Sodium: 600 mg
Fat: 15 g
Saturated Fat: 8 g
Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
Trans Fat: 0.2 g
Carbohydrates: 40 g
Fiber: 3 g
Protein: 35 g
Cholesterol: 85 mg

Keywords: spicy chicken casserole, cheesy chicken spaghetti, Southern casserole recipe, baked chicken pasta, spicy chicken spaghetti bake