There’s nothing quite like the smell of Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole wafting through your home, wrapping around you like a warm hug. Picture this: gooey cheese melting into perfectly cooked spaghetti, mingling with tender chicken and just the right amount of spice to keep you on your toes. spicy rattlesnake pasta spicy coconut chicken dish It’s a dish that’s not only comforting but also packs a flavorful punch, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
Growing up in a Southern household, casseroles were the holy grail of weeknight dinners. My Aunt Mabel would whip up her famous cheesy chicken spaghetti casserole at every family reunion, and let me tell you, it was always the first dish to disappear! It holds a special place in my heart and stomach; each bite is reminiscent of laughter, love, and one too many helpings. For more inspiration, check out this sticky honey chicken recipe recipe.
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] This easy-to-make dish combines rich flavors with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights. The vibrant colors create an enticing presentation that will impress any guest. You can easily adjust the spice level to cater to your family’s preferences. Ideal for potlucks or casual family dinners, it guarantees satisfied smiles all around. [/info_box]
I remember one particular Thanksgiving when I brought this casserole to the table; Uncle Joe nearly did a happy dance upon tasting it! It truly brings people together.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts but adjust according to your crowd size.
Spaghetti: Choose whole wheat or regular spaghetti based on your preference for added texture or health benefits.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar for that powerful flavor punch that makes your taste buds dance.
Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: These add a zesty kick and moisture; look for low-sodium varieties if watching salt intake.
Onion: Use a yellow onion for sweetness; sauté it until translucent to enhance the flavor profile.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are best here; they infuse the casserole with robust aromatic goodness.
Green Bell Pepper: Adds color and crunch; feel free to swap it out for any bell pepper variety you prefer.
Spices (Cumin & Paprika): Use smoked paprika for depth and cumin for warmth to give your casserole a Southern flair.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth so you can control the saltiness while adding flavor.
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess; Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier alternative without sacrificing taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat & Prep Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you gather your ingredients. Grease a 9×13 baking dish with cooking spray for easy cleanup later.
Sauté Those Aromatics!: In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté diced onions and green bell peppers until they soften and turn fragrant—about 5 minutes should do the trick.
Add Chicken & Spices: Toss in bite-sized pieces of chicken along with garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook until the chicken is browned and no longer pink—around 7-8 minutes will suffice.
Mix It All Up!: In a big bowl, combine cooked spaghetti, sautéed chicken mixture, diced tomatoes with green chilies, sour cream, chicken broth, and half of the shredded cheese. Mix until everything is coated beautifully.
Transfer & Top!: Pour the mixture into your greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the top; trust me—it’s worth it!
Bake Until Golden Brown!: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Now that we’ve made this delightful Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole together, you’re ready to dig in! Serve hot straight from the oven alongside a crisp salad or some buttery garlic bread. smothered chicken and rice.
So there you have it: an easy recipe filled with memories and mouthwatering flavors that will surely become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] This Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a delightful blend of flavors that warms your soul. The creamy texture with a spicy kick makes it a family favorite. The aroma while baking will have everyone asking when dinner is ready. [/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken first until golden, then cook the pasta while preparing the cheesy sauce. This sequence ensures optimal flavor and texture, making your casserole irresistibly delicious.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out pasta types or add veggies like bell peppers for extra color and nutrition. A dash of hot sauce or smoked paprika can also elevate the dish significantly.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain its creamy goodness.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] Ensure your chicken is fully cooked before mixing it into the casserole; no one likes undercooked poultry. Grate cheese fresh for better melting and flavor compared to pre-shredded options. Don’t skip seasoning; it makes all the difference in taste! [/info_box]
The first time I made this Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole, my friends devoured it within minutes. grilled lemongrass chicken Their compliments made me feel like a culinary rock star, and now it’s a staple at every gathering!
FAQ
Can I use leftover chicken in this casserole?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works great and saves time in preparation.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes! Substitute chicken with mushrooms or chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian option.
How do I make this dish spicier?
Add more hot sauce or include sliced jalapeños for an extra kick of heat!
Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, blending gooey cheese, tender chicken, and a kick of spice. This crowd-pleaser is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights at home. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, this casserole will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Serve it warm and watch as everyone goes back for seconds!
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked spaghetti
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup sour cream
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 baking dish.
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté onions and bell peppers until soft (about 5 minutes).
- Add chicken along with garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook until chicken is browned (7-8 minutes).
- In a large bowl, mix cooked spaghetti, chicken mixture, tomatoes, sour cream, broth, and half the cheese.
- Transfer to the baking dish. Top with remaining cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes; remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: For added nutrition, substitute whole wheat spaghetti or add more vegetables.
