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Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

A hearty, spicy casserole combining tender chicken, spaghetti, and bold Southern flavors in a creamy, cheesy bake perfect for family dinners.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 8 portions
Course: Casserole, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 485

Ingredients
  

Casserole Base
  • 1 pound spaghetti pasta
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts cooked and diced
  • 1 large onion diced
  • 1 large bell pepper diced
  • 2 celery stalks diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 can (10.75 oz) cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 can (10.75 oz) cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese shredded
  • 0.5 cup cream cheese softened
Spice Blend
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 tbsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp hot sauce adjust to taste
Additional Ingredients
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 0.5 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp butter melted
  • 0.25 cup fresh parsley chopped
  • green onions for garnish

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Large skillet
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Large pot for pasta

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
  2. Cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente, drain well, and set aside. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water in case needed later.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, bell pepper, and celery, cooking for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are softened and onions are translucent.
  4. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine both cream soups, chicken broth, softened cream cheese, and all spice blend ingredients. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
  6. Add the cooked vegetables, diced chicken, and cooked spaghetti to the soup mixture. Toss everything together until well coated.
  7. Fold in 1½ cups of the cheddar cheese and ¾ cup of the Monterey Jack cheese, reserving the remaining cheese for topping.
  8. Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top with remaining cheeses.
  9. In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top of the casserole.
  10. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
  11. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and green onions.
  12. Serve hot and enjoy this Southern comfort food masterpiece with your favorite sides.

Notes

For milder heat, reduce cayenne pepper and hot sauce. Can be assembled ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. Add 10-15 minutes to baking time if cooking from cold.