If you’re craving a dish that perfectly blends bold flavors with comforting, cheesy goodness, then this Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is exactly what you need. Rich with tender chicken, spicy notes from cayenne and paprika, and layers of melted sharp cheddar cheese, it’s that fabulous Southern-inspired meal that brings warmth and excitement to your dinner table. Every bite bursts with a delightful balance of creamy texture, a little kick of heat, and colorful bell peppers adding freshness. This casserole is an absolute crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family meals or casual get-togethers.

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 easier than you might think. Each component plays a vital role, whether it’s building the creamy sauce, adding texture, or bringing that vibrant color that makes this dish as inviting to the eye as it is to the palate.

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (3-4): The star protein that keeps the casserole hearty and satisfying.
Spaghetti (8 oz): Provides the perfect base, soaking up all the flavors with a tender bite.
Shredded sharp cheddar cheese (2 cups): Adds a rich, tangy melt that ties all the ingredients together beautifully.
Fresh bell peppers (1 cup, chopped): Bring a sweet crunch and bright color that balances the dish.
Cream of chicken soup (1 can, 10.5 oz): Creates a creamy base that holds everything together with comfort and flavor.
Paprika (1 tsp): Delivers a smoky warmth essential for that Southern flair.
Cayenne pepper (1/2 tsp): Adds just the right amount of heat without overwhelming the palate.
Garlic powder (1 tsp): Boosts savory depth and aroma.
Green onions (1/4 cup, sliced): Fresh garnish that lifts the dish with a mild onion bite and color contrast.

How to Make Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large casserole dish. This ensures the casserole won’t stick and gives it an even bake. Getting this out of the way sets you up for a smooth cooking process.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Place your seasoned chicken breasts into a large pot over medium heat. Cook each side for about 6-7 minutes until they turn golden and are thoroughly cooked. This step is crucial because perfectly cooked chicken provides the tender, juicy bite we all crave in this casserole.

Step 3: Prepare the Spaghetti

While the chicken cooks, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook your spaghetti until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Properly cooked pasta soaks up all the flavors without turning mushy, making it key to the casserole’s texture.

Step 4: Mix It All Together

In a large bowl, shred the cooked chicken and combine it with the drained spaghetti, cream of chicken soup, chopped bell peppers, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and half of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Stir this vibrant mixture to evenly blend all ingredients and spices, creating that signature Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole flavor.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Transfer your mixture to the greased casserole dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top to create a golden, bubbly crust during baking. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese on top turns beautifully browned and inviting.

Step 6: Let It Rest and Garnish

Once out of the oven, allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes. This lets everything set up nicely and makes serving easier. Before digging in, sprinkle the sliced green onions on top for that fresh pop of flavor and color that finishes the dish flawlessly.

How to Serve Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Garnishes

Adding a simple garnish like sliced green onions brightens the dish visually and adds a subtle bite that complements the creamy, cheesy layers. For an extra touch, a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or a drizzle of hot sauce can amp up the presentation and flavor for guests.

Side Dishes

This casserole is wonderfully filling on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans rounds out your meal with fresh, crunchy textures. A side of cornbread or warm dinner rolls also makes a classic Southern pairing that no one will resist.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun family meal, serve this casserole directly from the baking dish paired with individual plates heaped with sides. Alternatively, spoon portions into small ramekins for a charming, personal touch at dinner parties or potlucks, showcasing the beautiful layers and gooey cheese.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole keeps well for up to 3-4 days, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy weeknights.

Freezing

This casserole freezes wonderfully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and keep it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results and retain that fresh-baked charm.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until warmed through and bubbly. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too, but the oven method best preserves the texture and meltiness of the cheese topping.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta instead of spaghetti?

Absolutely! While spaghetti works beautifully here, you can substitute with penne, rotini, or even elbow macaroni—just choose something that holds sauce well and cooks to al dente.

How spicy is this casserole?

The heat level is moderate thanks to the cayenne pepper and paprika. You can easily adjust the spice by reducing or increasing the cayenne to suit your taste.

Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, swap the chicken for a mix of your favorite sautéed vegetables or plant-based protein alternatives, and use a vegetarian cream soup or homemade béchamel.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, it freezes well! Just bake, cool, then freeze in airtight containers. Thaw overnight before reheating for delicious leftovers anytime.

What cheese works best in this recipe?

Sharp cheddar cheese is recommended for its bold flavor and great melting quality, but feel free to mix in Monterey Jack or mozzarella for an extra cheesy experience.

Final Thoughts

This Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a true crowd-pleaser, perfectly balancing comforting cheesy richness with a lively southern spice kick. Whether you’re making a cozy family dinner or feeding a group of friends, it’s a dish that brings everyone to the table with smiles. Give it a try—your taste buds will thank you!

Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 11 reviews

Author: Harry
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Low Salt

Print Recipe

Description

This Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken breasts combined with al dente spaghetti, creamy chicken soup, sharp cheddar cheese, and a blend of southern spices including paprika and cayenne pepper. Baked to bubbly perfection and topped with fresh green onions, this casserole is a hearty and spicy twist on a classic cheesy pasta bake.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Spaghetti

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

Cheese and Vegetables

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup fresh bell peppers, chopped
1/4 cup green onions, sliced

Other Ingredients and Spices

1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
1 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large casserole dish to prevent sticking.
Cook the Chicken: Heat a large pot over medium heat and cook the chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove from heat and shred or chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Boil Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, approximately 8-10 minutes. Drain the spaghetti and set aside.
Mix Ingredients: In a large 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 well until all ingredients are evenly mixed.
Assemble Casserole: Transfer the mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Evenly sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown.
Rest and Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with the sliced green onions before serving to add a fresh, crisp flavor.

Notes

You can use any color bell peppers or a mix for added flavor and color.
Adjust the cayenne pepper amount to control the spiciness level according to your preference.
Use low-sodium cream of chicken soup if you want to reduce the sodium content.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
For a creamier casserole, add 1/4 cup of milk or sour cream to the mixture before baking.

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