Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
A comforting dish that combines tender chicken, spaghetti, and a creamy cheese sauce, perfect for family gatherings and weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds Three to four boneless, skinless chicken breasts Approximately
- 8 ounces Spaghetti Cooked until al dente
- 2 cups Shredded sharp cheddar cheese Divided for mixing and topping
- 1 cup Fresh bell peppers, chopped Add vibrant color and flavor
- 1 can Cream of chicken soup 10.5 ounces
- 1 teaspoon Paprika For flavor enhancement
- 0.5 teaspoon Cayenne pepper Adjust to taste for heat
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder To add depth of flavor
- 0.25 cup Green onions, sliced For garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large casserole dish.
- In a large pot over medium heat, cook the boneless, skinless chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden and cooked through.
- While the chicken cooks, bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook the spaghetti until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Mixing
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken (shredded), spaghetti, cream of chicken soup, chopped bell peppers, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese.
Baking
- Transfer the mixture into the greased casserole dish and spread it evenly. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
- Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Allow to rest for 5 minutes after removing from the oven, then garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Notes
For quicker preparation, consider using rotisserie chicken. Feel free to substitute ingredients based on personal preferences or dietary needs.