Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Penne and rotini hold onto the sauce beautifully and give the dish a fun texture.

How spicy is it, really?

It’s got a warm Southern kick—think cozy, not flaming. Want it milder? Skip the cayenne. Want it bolder? Add a dash of hot sauce.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble it the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to eat—just add 5 extra minutes if it’s coming from the fridge.

How do I store leftovers?

Place leftovers in an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to 4 days . Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Description

This Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and kicked up with bold Southern spices. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or feeding a hungry crowd!

Ingredients

Scale

3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
12 oz spaghetti
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
1 cup chopped red or yellow bell peppers
1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp paprika
¼ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
½ cup chopped green onions (for garnish)
½ cup cooked, crumbled bacon (optional but highly recommended)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Nonstick cooking spray

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a large casserole dish with nonstick spray.
Cook the chicken: In a large skillet, cook chicken breasts over medium heat for 6–7 minutes per side, until fully cooked. Let cool slightly, then shred.
Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente (8–10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
Mix the casserole: In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cooked spaghetti, cream of chicken soup, bell peppers, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne, salt, pepper, and half of the shredded cheese. Mix well.
Assemble and bake: Pour the mixture into the greased casserole dish. Top with remaining cheese and bacon (if using).
Bake for 25–30 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish with chopped green onions before serving. Enjoy hot!

Notes

Swap spaghetti for rotini or penne for a fun texture change.
Rotisserie chicken works great if you’re short on time.
For a less spicy version, reduce or skip the cayenne pepper.
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheated easily.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dinner, Casserole
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 520 kcal
Sugar: 3 g
Sodium: 780 mg
Fat: 28 g
Saturated Fat: 13 g
Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 35 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 31 g
Cholesterol: 98 mg