Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
A cheesy twist on Southern comfort, featuring tender chicken, melty cheese, and perfectly cooked spaghetti in a spicy, creamy sauce.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into small cubes)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 1 green bell pepper (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (undrained)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup cream cheese (softened)
- 8 oz cooked spaghetti
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for extra spice)
- 2 tbsp butter
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
Cooking the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken cubes and season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Sautéing Vegetables
- In the same skillet, melt butter. Add diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until soft and fragrant.
Making the Sauce
- Stir in diced tomatoes with green chilies, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Add Cajun seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes. Simmer for 5 minutes until the mixture slightly thickens.
Adding Cheese
- Reduce heat to low and mix in cream cheese, cheddar, and Parmesan until melted and smooth. The sauce should be creamy and slightly spicy.
Combining Ingredients
- Add cooked spaghetti and chicken to the sauce. Toss well to coat every strand evenly.
Baking the Casserole
- Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle a little extra cheddar and Parmesan on top. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden.
Serving
- Let it rest for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave with a splash of milk for creaminess. Reduce or omit the red pepper flakes for a milder version or add more Cajun seasoning for extra spice. Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Pair with cornbread muffins or a crisp green salad to complete your Southern-style meal.