Cheesy, creamy, and with just the right amount of heat — this Southern classic brings comfort food to a whole new level!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy, cheesy, and perfectly spicy — a true Southern comfort dish.

• Easy to make with simple ingredients for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

• Full of protein and veggies, making it a balanced, hearty meal.

• Leftovers reheat beautifully, perfect for meal prep.

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

• ½ tsp cayenne pepper

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• ¼ cup green onions, sliced

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6–8
Calories: ~480 kcal per serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Dish

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large casserole dish.

Step 2: Cook Chicken

Cook chicken in a skillet 6–7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Shred and set aside.

Step 3: Cook Spaghetti

Boil spaghetti in salted water until al dente (8–10 minutes). Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, cooked spaghetti, cream of chicken soup, bell peppers, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and half of the shredded cheddar.

Step 5: Assemble Casserole

Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared casserole dish. Top with remaining cheddar cheese.

Step 6: Bake

Bake 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Step 7: Serve

Rest 5 minutes, garnish with sliced green onions, and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• Add diced jalapeños for extra heat.

• Swap cheddar for pepper jack for a spicier flavor.

• Make ahead: assemble casserole and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

• Add cooked bacon or sausage for an extra protein boost.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes! It’s perfect for saving time.

Can this be frozen?

Yes, assemble and freeze before baking. Thaw overnight and bake at 350°F for 30–35 minutes.

Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Absolutely! Gluten-free spaghetti works just as well.

Final Thoughts

This Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is comfort food at its finest — cheesy, creamy, and perfectly spiced. It’s easy to make, crowd-pleasing, and guaranteed to become a family favorite!