SPICY SOUTHERN CHEESY CHICKEN SPAGHETTI CASSEROLE

Picture this: it’s a busy weekday evening, and you’ve just returned home from a long day at work or chasing after your little ones. The clock is ticking, your stomach is growling, and the last thing you want to do is spend hours slaving away in the kitchen. Well, I have the perfect solution for your time-starved life the Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole! This mouthwatering dish comes together quickly, combines hearty ingredients, and best of all, it’ll please even the pickiest of eaters. With its unique blend of spices and creamy goodness, it’s bound to become your go-to comfort food. Trust me; once you try it, you’ll understand why so many people are raving about this recipe!

What Makes This Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole a Must-Try

This casserole is not just any meal; it’s a delightful fusion of flavors that perfectly captures the essence of Southern cooking while being incredibly straightforward to make. First of all, the preparation is a breeze, allowing you to whip up a satisfying dinner in under an hour. The combination of juicy chicken, rich cheese, and zesty spices brings a taste explosion that will have your taste buds dancing.

Secondly, what sets this dish apart is its versatility. You can easily customize it according to your preferences, whether that means adding extra veggies, adjusting the spice level for little mouths, or making it a vegetarian delight! Lastly, it’s a complete meal all in one dish, meaning less time washing up and more time enjoying that well-deserved family dinner. What’s not to love about that?

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Practical Tips / Cooking Tips

• Meal Prep: Cook chicken in advance and store it in the fridge, allowing the flavors to develop even further. You can also use rotisserie chicken for a shortcut!
• Substitutions: If you don’t have cheddar cheese, feel free to use Monterey Jack or a blend of your favorites. For a gluten-free option, swap out regular pasta for gluten-free spaghetti.
• Veggie Boost: This casserole can also be the perfect opportunity to sneak in some extra nutrition. Consider adding bell peppers, spinach, or even broccoli!
• Adjust Spice: If you’re cooking for young children or those averse to heat, reduce the cayenne pepper or use a milder cheese.
• Freezing Tips: This casserole freezes beautifully! Just make sure to cover it tightly before stashing it in the freezer, so it stays fresh.

Nutritional Value / Health Benefits

This dish provides a hearty dose of protein from the chicken and a satisfying carbohydrate source from the pasta, making it a balanced choice for a busy family’s dinner. Plus, you can enjoy the creamy deliciousness without feeling guilty, as it’s loaded with nutrients that support heart health and fuel your busy lifestyle!

Recipe Overview

The Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a crowd-pleaser that will whisk you away to the South with every bite. Whether you’re feeding a family of five or hosting a gathering, this dish is your culinary ally. With just a handful of ingredients and some simple steps, you’ll create magic in your kitchen that’s both comforting and full of flavor. The creamy cheese mix harmonizes perfectly with the spice blend, making it an irresistible treat for everyone at the table. And don’t worry; it takes just around 30 minutes of prep time and about 30 minutes to bake—double win!

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large pot, cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion until it’s transparent and aromatic, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the shredded chicken and stir in the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and cayenne pepper, mixing well to combine.
5. Toss in the cooked spaghetti and half of the cheddar cheese to the skillet. Stir until everything is mixed and heated through.
6. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Top evenly with the remaining cheddar cheese.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
8. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving—this dish is best enjoyed warm!

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FAQ

Can I make this casserole in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day ahead, cover it tightly, and keep it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve for a hassle-free meal.

How do I adjust this recipe for different dietary needs?

For gluten-free, simply swap out the pasta for a gluten-free version. You can also opt for plant-based cheese and vegetable broth for a vegetarian or vegan approach.

What can I use to store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze portions for longer-lasting meals!

Can I add more vegetables to the casserole?

Yes! Feel free to add cooked veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, or zucchini to the mix for an extra nutrition boost and added flavor.

Is there a way to make this casserole spicier?

If you love heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or using pepper jack cheese for an extra kick!

Can I use different protein sources?

Sure! Ground beef, turkey, or even shrimp can make a delightful substitution, depending on your family’s preferences.

Conclusion

To wrap things up, the Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is not only an easy, delicious option for busy families but also incredibly versatile and brimming with flavor. With its creamy texture, zesty kick, and delectable ingredients, it can easily elevate any dinner table, all while saving you precious time. I encourage you to try this recipe for your next meal, and I’d love for you to share your own creations or variations with us! Explore more delicious recipes on the site; you won’t be disappointed!

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Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Delight

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• Author: admin
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

Savor the Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Delight a creamy zesty dish perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings Enjoy

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

2 cups, shredded cooked chicken

8 oz spaghetti

2 cups, shredded cheddar cheese

1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup

1 cup chicken broth

1 tsp cayenne pepper

1 diced onion

2 tbsp olive oil

Salt & pepper to taste

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a large pot, cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion until it’s transparent and aromatic, about 3-4 minutes.

Add the shredded chicken and stir in the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and cayenne pepper, mixing well to combine.

Toss in the cooked spaghetti and half of the cheddar cheese to the skillet. Stir until everything is mixed and heated through.

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Top evenly with the remaining cheddar cheese.

Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving—this dish is best enjoyed warm!

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 2g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g

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