Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
A heartwarming, one-pan casserole featuring tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and melted cheddar cheese, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups chicken breasts Feel free to swap with shrimp or mushrooms.
- 8 ounces spaghetti Can be swapped with gluten-free pasta.
- 1 can cream of chicken soup Use cream of mushroom for a vegetarian option.
- 1 cup fresh bell peppers Zucchini can be used as a substitute.
- 2 stalks green onions For garnish.
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese Mixing in mozzarella creates a milder taste.
Spices
- 1 teaspoon paprika Adds warmth and depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper Adjust to taste for spice level.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder For flavor enhancement.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Chop chicken, bell peppers, and green onions.
Cooking Pasta
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook spaghetti until al dente, reserving a cup of pasta water.
Sautéing
- In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Sauté chicken until no longer pink, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Add bell peppers, paprika, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder, and cook until softened.
Combining
- In a large mixing bowl, combine spaghetti, cream of chicken soup, and sautéed chicken mixture. Add reserved pasta water to combine.
- Stir in half of the cheddar cheese until incorporated.
Baking
- Transfer mixture to a greased casserole dish. Top with remaining cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Serving
- Let cool for a few minutes, garnish with green onions, and serve hot.
Notes
Taste as you go and adjust seasonings. Don't skimp on cheese! Left overs can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
Serving: 1gCalories: 560kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 34gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 16gSodium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4g
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