Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

This spicy Southern cheesy chicken spaghetti casserole brings together the perfect blend of comfort and heat that has made it a staple at my family gatherings for years. The creamy texture combined with the kick of spices creates a dish that satisfies both adventurous eaters and those seeking familiar comfort food flavors.

I first created this recipe when hosting an impromptu dinner party during a thunderstorm when guests couldn't leave. The combination of ingredients I had on hand turned into this crowd pleaser that everyone now requests whenever we gather.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts provide lean protein and juicy texture when cooked properly
• Spaghetti serves as the hearty base look for quality pasta that holds its shape
• Sharp cheddar cheese adds rich flavor and creates that irresistible golden top
• Fresh bell peppers bring sweetness and texture choose colorful varieties for visual appeal
• Cream of chicken soup creates the creamy binding sauce without extra work
• Paprika adds smoky depth and beautiful color
• Cayenne pepper delivers the signature heat adjust according to your spice tolerance
• Garlic powder infuses savory notes throughout the casserole
• Green onions provide fresh brightness and visual contrast

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat Oven

Set your oven to 350°F and prepare your casserole dish with a light coating of cooking spray or butter. This temperature allows for even cooking without drying out the pasta or burning the cheese.

Cook the Chicken

Place chicken breasts in a large pot with about a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Cook for approximately 6 to 7 minutes per side until the exterior develops a golden color and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The slight browning adds flavor compounds that enhance the overall dish.

Prepare the Pasta

Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and add about a tablespoon of salt. Cook the spaghetti according to package directions but aim for al dente texture about 8 minutes since it will continue cooking in the oven. Properly drained pasta prevents excess moisture in your casserole.

Create the Casserole Mixture

Shred the cooked chicken using two forks for texture that distributes evenly throughout the dish. In a large mixing bowl combine the shredded chicken pasta cream of chicken soup diced bell peppers all seasonings and half of your shredded cheese. Mix thoroughly ensuring every strand of spaghetti gets coated with the creamy mixture.

Bake to Perfection

Transfer your mixture to the prepared casserole dish spreading it evenly to the edges. Top with the remaining cheese making sure to cover the entire surface for that picture perfect golden crust. Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until you see bubbling around the edges and the cheese has developed an irresistible golden brown color.

Final Touch

Allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes after removing from the oven. This resting period lets the sauce thicken slightly and makes serving easier. Sprinkle with freshly chopped green onions just before serving for a pop of color and fresh flavor.

The cayenne pepper is actually my secret weapon in this recipe. My grandmother always said a good Southern casserole should have just enough heat to make you notice but not enough to make you reach for water. The first time I made this for my inlaws they were skeptical about the spice level but ended up asking for the recipe before dessert was even served.

Make Ahead and Storage

This casserole actually improves in flavor when made a day ahead. Prepare everything up to the baking step then cover tightly with foil and refrigerate. When ready to serve remove from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking and add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time. Leftovers maintain their quality for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat cover with foil and warm in a 325°F oven until heated through about 20 minutes.

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of this casserole lies in its adaptability. Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully as a time saving alternative to cooking chicken breasts. For a lighter version substitute Greek yogurt for half of the cream soup. Gluten free pasta can be used successfully but may require a slight adjustment in cooking time. Vegetable additions like mushrooms frozen peas or roasted corn kernels blend seamlessly into the creamy mixture adding nutrition and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this hearty casserole with a simple side salad dressed with vinaigrette to balance the richness. Garlic bread or buttermilk biscuits make excellent accompaniments for soaking up every bit of the creamy sauce. For a complete Southern inspired meal offer pickled vegetables or coleslaw on the side. A chilled glass of sweet tea or a crisp white wine pairs beautifully with the complex flavors.

Southern Cooking Heritage

This recipe represents the evolution of Southern casserole cooking which historically served as practical ways to feed large families with minimal ingredients. The addition of canned soup became popular in the 1950s when convenience foods revolutionized home cooking. My grandmother would make a version using leftover Sunday chicken and whatever vegetables were in season. The cayenne pepper reflects the influence of Cajun cooking traditions that spread throughout the South bringing welcome heat to traditional comfort foods.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.

→ What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?

For a homemade alternative, whisk together 2 tablespoons of butter with 2 tablespoons of flour, then slowly add 1 cup of chicken broth and 1/2 cup of milk. Season with salt and pepper and simmer until thickened.

→ How spicy is this dish?

With 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, this dish has a moderate kick. For a milder version, reduce the cayenne to 1/4 teaspoon or omit it completely. For extra heat, add diced jalapeños or increase the cayenne.

→ Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?

Absolutely! Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Simply shred about 3 cups of meat from the rotisserie chicken and proceed with the recipe as directed.

→ What sides pair well with this casserole?

This hearty dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans, or buttery garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. Cool completely, portion into airtight containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a 350°F oven until hot throughout.