Description

A spicy and cheesy Southern-style chicken spaghetti casserole combining tender cooked chicken, al dente spaghetti, cream of chicken soup, and sharp cheddar cheese, all baked to bubbly perfection and topped with fresh green onions for a comforting and flavorful meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein and Pasta

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

Dairy and Cheese

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup

Vegetables and Aromatics

1 cup fresh bell peppers (chopped)
1/4 cup green onions (sliced)

Spices

1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
1 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

Preheat and prepare the dish. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large casserole dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving later.
Cook the chicken. In a large pot over medium heat, cook the boneless, skinless chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes per side until they develop a golden crust and are cooked through. Remove and shred or chop once slightly cooled.
Cook the spaghetti. Boil salted water in a separate large pot and cook the spaghetti until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set aside.
Mix the casserole filling. In a large mixing 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 until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Assemble and bake. Transfer the mixture into the greased casserole dish evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Rest and garnish. Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes after baking to set. Garnish with sliced green onions before serving to add freshness and color.

Notes

For extra spice, increase cayenne pepper or add hot sauce to the mixture.
Cream of mushroom soup can be substituted for cream of chicken soup if preferred.
Use sharp cheddar for a more pronounced cheesy flavor, or blend with Monterey Jack for creaminess.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Ensure chicken is fully cooked by checking internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Casserole
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Southern American

Keywords: spicy chicken casserole, cheesy chicken spaghetti, Southern comfort food, baked chicken pasta, casserole dinner