Are you ready for a dish that combines the hearty flavors of the South with a spicy kick? My Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Delight is the answer! This one-pan wonder brings together tender chicken, creamy cheese, and zesty veggies for a meal that warms your heart and fills your belly. Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or a fun potluck, this recipe is a must-try. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Comfort Food Classic: This casserole combines the warmth of spaghetti with the heartiness of chicken, making it a perfect comfort food for any occasion.
- Spicy Kick: The Cajun seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes add a delightful heat that elevates the flavor profile of the dish.
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, this recipe is straightforward and can be put together quickly, making it ideal for busy nights.
- Feed a Crowd: This casserole serves six, making it a great choice for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked spaghetti
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
Vegetables and Seasonings
- 1 cup bell peppers (red and green), diced
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Dairy and Garnish
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced (for garnish)
The ingredients for Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole blend well to create a warm dish. Start with two cups of cooked spaghetti. I recommend using al dente pasta for the best texture. Next, you’ll need a pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed for even cooking.
For a touch of freshness, add one cup of diced tomatoes. You can use canned or fresh tomatoes based on your preference. The vegetables bring color and crunch. Dice one cup of bell peppers—both red and green work well.
Don’t forget your onion! A half cup, finely chopped, adds flavor. One teaspoon of garlic powder gives depth to your dish.
For the creamy goodness, mix in one cup of shredded cheddar cheese and one cup of softened cream cheese. These cheeses create a rich and cheesy base. Finally, add a quarter cup of sliced green onions for garnish. They add a pop of color and flavor when serving.
With these ingredients, you create a satisfying meal that warms the soul.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Sauté 1/2 cup of finely chopped onion until it turns clear, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add 1 pound of cubed chicken breasts to the skillet.
- Season the chicken with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning, and 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes.
- Cook the chicken until it’s browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
Cooking the Casserole
- Stir in 1 cup of diced tomatoes and 1 cup of diced bell peppers.
- Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the veggies soften.
- In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of cooked spaghetti, 1 cup of softened cream cheese, and 1/2 of the 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Mix well until all the spaghetti is coated.
- Add the chicken and vegetable mix to the spaghetti.
- Stir gently so everything combines evenly.
Baking Instructions
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes.
- Bake until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with sliced green onions for extra flavor.
Tips & Tricks
Enhancing Flavor
To make your Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole pop, you can adjust the spice levels. If you love heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes. Start with a little and test as you go. This way, you find your perfect spice level.
Using fresh herbs is another great way to boost flavor. Try adding fresh parsley or cilantro just before serving. These herbs add brightness and freshness to each bite.
Cooking Techniques
For the best chicken, cook the cubed chicken in a hot skillet. This helps develop a nice brown crust. Use medium heat and don’t crowd the pan. This keeps the chicken juicy.
To ensure cheesy goodness throughout your casserole, mix the cream cheese well with the spaghetti. Make sure every strand is coated. When you layer in the cheddar cheese, sprinkle it evenly. This way, every bite is cheesy and delicious.
Pro Tips
- Use Leftover Chicken: For a quicker prep time, use leftover rotisserie chicken instead of cooking fresh chicken. Shred or cube it and toss it in with the vegetables.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to mix different types of cheese such as pepper jack or mozzarella for a unique flavor profile. Just ensure it melts well!
- Make it Ahead: This casserole can be assembled a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it right before serving!
- Adjusting Spice Levels: If you’re serving kids or those who prefer milder dishes, reduce the crushed red pepper flakes or omit them altogether. You can always add hot sauce at the table!
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can easily customize your Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole. For cheese, try using mozzarella or pepper jack. These cheeses melt well and add different flavors. If you prefer a vegetarian dish, swap the chicken for chickpeas or tofu. These options still give you protein without meat. You can also use any veggies you like. Spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms work great. Just remember to adjust the cooking time based on the vegetables you choose.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs well with many side dishes. A fresh green salad adds crunch and color. You can also serve it with garlic bread for a hearty meal. Both sides balance the spicy casserole nicely. This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings. It feeds a crowd and is easy to transport. You can prepare it ahead of time and bake it when you need it. Everyone will love digging into this comforting and flavorful meal!
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
To store your leftover Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole, place it in an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh for up to three days. Make sure to cool the casserole to room temperature before sealing. This prevents moisture buildup, which can make the dish soggy.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze the casserole, let it cool completely. Then, cut it into portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag or container. This protects against freezer burn and keeps the flavors intact. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until it’s hot throughout. This method helps maintain its flavor and texture.
FAQs
Common Questions
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this casserole ahead of time. Cook and mix all the ingredients, then place them in the casserole dish. Cover it and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just preheat the oven and bake as directed. This makes it easy for busy weeknights.
How can I make it spicier or milder?
To make it spicier, add more crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce. You can also use spicy sausage instead of chicken for a kick. If you prefer it milder, reduce the red pepper flakes and Cajun seasoning. You can also add more cream cheese to balance the heat.
Recipe-Specific Inquiries
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you need a substitute for cream cheese, use Greek yogurt or sour cream. Both options add creaminess. They also enhance the flavor. You can also try ricotta cheese for a different texture.
Is it possible to use whole grain spaghetti?
Absolutely! Whole grain spaghetti is a great choice. It adds fiber and nutrients. Just cook it according to the package instructions. Then, mix it in as you would with regular spaghetti. This swap keeps your dish healthy without losing flavor.
This blog post shared a delicious spaghetti casserole recipe. We covered key ingredients like chicken, cheese, and veggies. I provided simple steps for preparation and baking. You can also enhance flavor and try different ingredient swaps. Remember to store leftovers properly to keep them fresh.
With this recipe, you can make a tasty meal that everyone will enjoy. I hope you feel inspired to create this dish and share it with family and friend
Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked spaghetti
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 cup bell peppers (red and green), diced
- 0.5 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 0.5 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 0.25 cup green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- to taste salt and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the cubed chicken to the skillet, seasoning with garlic powder, Cajun seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes and bell peppers. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Remove from heat.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, cream cheese, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined.
- Add the chicken and vegetable mixture to the spaghetti and mix gently until everything is evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
- Cover the casserole with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Once done, let it cool slightly before serving. Sprinkle with sliced green onions for garnish.
