Name: Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs); 8 oz spaghetti; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup fresh bell peppers (chopped); 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup; 1 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1/4 cup green onions (sliced)

Comfort food just got a major upgrade with this Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole. It’s exactly what your weeknight table needs: cheesy, creamy, and loaded with a touch of feisty Southern heat, all in a single bubbling dish. Juicy chicken, vibrant peppers, and that irresistible golden cheddar topping come together to make a meal that’s flavorful and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re prepping for a family gathering or looking for the ultimate cozy dinner, this casserole promises to bring joy (and just a little bit of spice!) to everyone you serve.

Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk ingredients! Each item in this Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole plays a starring role, adding depth, texture, and color. Most are kitchen staples, but together, they become something magical with a Southern spin and a little kick.

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The hearty centerpiece; cook until golden for the juiciest, most flavorful chicken bite.
Spaghetti: Classic pasta soaks up all the spicy, cheesy flavors and offers satisfying twirl-ability in every forkful.
Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Go for sharp—its bold taste melts beautifully and creates that crave-worthy bubbly cheese crust.
Fresh bell peppers (chopped): Color, crunch, and gentle sweetness help balance the creamy, spicy sauce.
Cream of chicken soup: The secret to a luscious, cohesive casserole; it keeps the dish velvety and rich.
Paprika: Adds subtle smokiness and boosts the casserole’s appetizing color.
Cayenne pepper: A little goes a long way; just enough heat to keep things interesting but not overwhelming.
Garlic powder: Elevates every savory note and ties all the flavors together.
Green onions (sliced): Fresh, peppery garnish to finish the casserole with color and zing.

How to Make Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large casserole dish well—there’s nothing worse than losing that crispy edge to sticking! Gather and prep all your ingredients: chop the chicken, dice the bell peppers, slice the green onions, and shred your cheese if you’re not using pre-shredded.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a large pot and cook over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes per side. You want them golden and just cooked through—overcooking can make the meat dry. Once done, shred or dice the chicken and set aside.

Step 3: Boil the Spaghetti

Meanwhile, bring a big pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti until just al dente—about 8-10 minutes. Drain well; you don’t want watery pasta making your casserole runny.

Step 4: Mix the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked spaghetti, chopped bell peppers, cream of chicken soup, half the cheddar cheese, paprika, cayenne, and garlic powder. Stir until everything is evenly coated and the colors are well distributed.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Spread the mixture into your prepared casserole dish and smooth the top. Sprinkle the rest of the cheddar cheese all over, covering every inch so you get maximum cheesy coverage. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown on top.

Step 6: Rest and Garnish

Let the Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole rest for about 5 minutes after baking—this helps it set and makes serving a breeze. Just before serving, sprinkle generously with chopped green onions for a burst of fresh flavor and brilliant color.

How to Serve Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Garnishes

A well-placed garnish can make all the difference! For this casserole, a shower of freshly sliced green onions brings a crisp, oniony bite that cuts through the richness. If you’re feeling extra, add a few extra pinches of paprika or even a scattering of chopped fresh cilantro for color and zing.

Side Dishes

The best sides for Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole are simple but mighty. Try a bright, tangy side salad or some Southern-style green beans to balance out the creaminess. Warm dinner rolls or buttery cornbread never go amiss, either, especially for sopping up every last bit of that melted cheese.

Creative Ways to Present

Think outside the casserole dish for fun presentation! Serve individual portions in mini cast iron skillets or oven-safe ramekins for guests. You can also pile up servings in a big, rustic family-style bowl and let everyone dig in at the table. A sprinkle of extra cheese and green onions just before serving will always make it feel deliciously special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you somehow end up with leftovers, you’re in luck—this casserole keeps beautifully. Store any extra in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors develop even more overnight, making those leftovers seriously craveable.

Freezing

Want to make a batch ahead? Assemble the Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole but hold off on baking. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed.

Reheating

To reheat, place leftovers in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to retain moisture. Warm in a preheated 350°F oven until heated through—about 15-20 minutes for a big portion. For a quick option, individual servings can be microwaved with a damp paper towel (to keep things steamy) until piping hot.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking my own?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut and brings even more flavor to your casserole. Just shred the meat and proceed as directed, skipping the chicken-cooking step.

Is there a way to make this Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole less spicy?

Of course! Simply reduce or omit the cayenne pepper for a mild version the whole family can enjoy. You’ll still get all those comforting Southern flavors without the heat.

Can I substitute a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can mix it up! While sharp cheddar is classic, feel free to try Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or even Pepper Jack for a slightly different twist—or combine your favorites for extra cheesy goodness.

How do I make this casserole gluten-free?

Swap the regular spaghetti for your favorite gluten-free brand, and use a gluten-free cream of chicken soup (many brands offer this option!). Everything else is naturally gluten-free, so it’s an easy adaptation.

Is this recipe easy to double for a crowd?

This Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is perfect for feeding a crowd! Simply double the ingredients and bake in two large casserole dishes. It’s just as easy and always a hit at potlucks or gatherings.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about a bubbling, cheesy casserole shared with friends or family. Give this Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole a whirl the next time you crave comfort with a kick—you won’t regret it. I can’t wait for you to dig in and make this dish a new favorite in your own kitchen!