Description
A hearty and flavorful Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole featuring tender shredded chicken, sautéed bell peppers and onions, creamy soups, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and a blend of spices baked to bubbly perfection with melted cheddar cheese on top.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 12 oz spaghetti, cooked and drained
Vegetables
- 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers (red or green)
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
Soup and Canned Goods
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
Cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Spices & Seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
Other
- 2 tbsp butter
- Non-stick cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and set it aside for later use.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onions and bell peppers, and sauté until they become tender and fragrant, which takes about 5 minutes. This brings out their sweetness and softens them for the casserole.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, sautéed onions and bell peppers, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, diced tomatoes with green chilies, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything well until the mixture is evenly combined and creamy.
- Add Spaghetti: Gently fold the cooked and drained spaghetti into the mixture, making sure the pasta is well coated with the saucy chicken and vegetable mixture but not breaking the noodles.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly across the top to create a cheesy crust during baking.
- Bake: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Bake until the cheese topping is bubbly, melted, and lightly golden brown, signaling the casserole is heated through and ready to serve.
- Rest and Serve: Carefully remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes. This helps the casserole set slightly for easier serving and enhances the flavor melding before enjoying.
Notes
- You can substitute cooked rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Adjust cayenne pepper to your spice tolerance for milder or spicier tastes.
- For a creamier texture, add a splash of milk or cream to the mixture before baking.
- Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated well.
- Feel free to add a topping of crushed crackers or breadcrumbs mixed with butter for extra crunch before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
