thern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with weeknight dinners again, because thern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is about to become your new favorite go-to comfort food. This bold and cheesy classic brings together tender chicken, spaghetti, colorful bell peppers, and a creamy, slightly spicy sauce, all baked until perfectly bubbly and golden. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting friends, or in need of a dish that reheats like a dream, this casserole delivers big southern flavors with minimal hassle and maximum satisfaction.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this casserole is just how approachable and grocery-list-friendly the ingredients are! Each element plays a starring role in creating a creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy masterpiece with plenty of color and texture.

• Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts bring hearty protein and soak up all those wonderful flavors.
• Spaghetti: Classic spaghetti is the perfect base, holding all the sauce and cheese beautifully.
• Sharp cheddar cheese: This is the secret to that irresistible ooey-gooey cheesy pull in every single bite.
• Bell peppers: Chopped fresh bell peppers add sweetness, crunch, and a pop of color.
• Cream of chicken soup: A can of this soup creates a creamy, savory sauce that brings everything together seamlessly.
• Paprika: Smoky paprika enhances the color and adds depth without overpowering the dish.
• Cayenne pepper: Just a touch for a subtle, spicy kick that lingers (add more if you like it extra fiery!).
• Garlic powder: This pantry staple ties the flavors together with savory goodness.
• Green onions: Sliced green onions add a fresh, bright note right before serving.

How to Make thern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Casserole Dish

Start by setting yourself up for success! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), then grab your favorite large casserole dish and grease it thoroughly. This little step ensures nothing sticks and gives you those delightfully crisp, cheesy edges once baked.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a large pot over medium heat. Cook them for about 6 to 7 minutes per side until they’re golden on the outside and just cooked through. Don’t worry about a bit of color here—it boosts the flavor. Once done, remove the chicken from the pot, let it cool slightly, and then shred it with two forks or dice it if you prefer bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Boil the Spaghetti

While the chicken cooks, bring a big pot of salted water to a boil. Add your spaghetti and cook until al dente, usually 8 to 10 minutes. Drain well—dry spaghetti means your casserole won’t end up watery.

Step 4: Mix Everything Together

This is where the magic happens! In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked spaghetti, cream of chicken soup, chopped bell peppers, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and half of the sharp cheddar cheese. Stir it all up until every strand of spaghetti is coated with that creamy, cheesy goodness.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Spoon the mixture into your prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese generously over the top—this is where that golden, melty crust comes from. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until your thern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is bubbling and perfectly golden brown around the edges.

Step 6: Rest and Garnish

It’s tempting to dig right in, but let your casserole rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This helps everything set up beautifully. Finish with a shower of chopped green onions for a fresh, zesty pop that really brings all the flavors to life.

How to Serve thern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Garnishes

Give your casserole the finishing touch it deserves! Before serving, sprinkle extra green onions on top for a fresh crunch and a little color. If you’re feeling adventurous, a dash more paprika or a light flurry of fresh parsley can add flair.

Side Dishes

While thern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a star all on its own, it pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or classic southern sides like garlic bread or collard greens for a well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For family-style dining, serve the casserole warm and bubbling straight from the dish. Hosting a gathering? Scoop individual portions into ramekins for a personal touch, or cut squares for a potluck spread. Leftovers work beautifully for lunches; try tucking them into a wrap or sandwich roll for a cheesy, portable delight!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you manage to have leftovers, they store like a dream! Simply cover the cooled casserole tightly with foil or transfer servings to airtight containers, then refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors actually intensify overnight, making day-two portions especially tasty.

Freezing

Thern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a freezer-friendly wonder. For best results, let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly (first with plastic, then foil) or place in a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to three months. To freeze individual portions, divide them into freezer bags or containers for easy grab-and-go meals.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently by covering with foil and warming in a 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes, or until hot throughout. For speedier lunches, pop a serving in the microwave (cover with a damp paper towel to keep it moist) and heat in 30-second bursts, stirring if needed.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut, adding deep flavor and saving you time. Just shred about 3-4 cups and use it in place of the cooked chicken breasts—your thern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole will still turn out delicious!

Is there a way to make this casserole less spicy?

Of course! If you’re sensitive to heat, simply reduce or omit the cayenne pepper. The casserole will still be rich and flavorful, just without the spicy kick.

What’s the best way to keep the spaghetti from overcooking?

Only boil the spaghetti until al dente, since it will continue cooking in the oven. This guarantees perfectly cooked noodles every time, with just the right amount of bite.

Can I prepare thern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole ahead of time?

Definitely! Assemble the casserole up to a day ahead, cover, and keep it in the fridge. When you’re ready, just bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed to warm through.

What other cheese can I use in this recipe?

Sharp cheddar is classic, but feel free to experiment! Pepper jack, colby, or a blend of Italian cheeses bring new flavors and melty goodness to your thern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a dish that brings together creamy comfort, a hint of heat, and plenty of bold southern character, thern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole won’t let you down. It’s one of those recipes you’ll come back to over and over, so don’t be surprised when it becomes a new favorite in your kitchen. Gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and enjoy every cheesy, satisfying forkful!

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