Downhome Spicy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Down Home Irresistible Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole: A Southern Comfort Classic with a Kick
Ever find yourself craving some serious Southern comfort food? Well, have I got a treat for you! This Irresistible Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti is the answer.
It's a creamy, cheesy, spicy hug in a dish. Trust me, you’ll be saying "Oh my gosh!" after the first bite.
A Taste of the South: What Makes This Casserole So Good?
This spicy chicken spaghetti casserole takes inspiration from classic Southern comfort food recipes . It's more than just a meal. This baked chicken spaghetti recipe is a total family favourite.
Its origin is Southern US. It requires minimal culinary skills and prep time is around 20 minutes. Bake time is just 30- 35 minutes.
It yields about 6-8 servings.
This recipe is special for so many reasons. It combines familiar creamy richness with a kick of heat. The chicken spaghetti bake is perfect for using leftover chicken.
It’s a crowd pleaser. And honestly, it's just plain good family food ideas if you ask me!
Creamy, Dreamy, and Delicious: Benefits of This Dish
This dish gives you more than just good vibes. It’s packed with protein from the chicken, and it's oh-so-satisfying. It provides sustained energy and fullness.
Perfect for weeknight dinner ideas when you need something hearty. I think it's also great for potlucks or any time you need a dish to share.
Get Your Ingredients Ready
Ready to create this comfort meal? Here’s what you'll need. You will love this easy cheap dinner ideas with all the ingredients.
Ingredients & Equipment
Let's dive into what you'll need to create this Irresistible Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti . Trust me, it's easier than finding decent parking at the mall during the holidays.
This is one of the most requested Family Food Ideas in my home and I know it will be in yours too
Main Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: 1.5 lbs (680g) . Look for plump, juicy chicken. Fresh is best, of course.
- Olive oil: 1 tbsp (15ml) . Extra virgin olive oil is always a good option.
- Salt: 1 tsp (5g) . Don't skimp on the salt.
- Black pepper: 1/2 tsp (2.5g) . Freshly ground pepper is my fave.
- Garlic powder: 1/2 tsp (2.5g) . Adds a little something extra.
- Spaghetti: 1 lb (450g) . Aint nothin like some thick spaghetti.
- Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup (115g) . This is the foundation for a rich sauce.
- Yellow onion: 1 medium . Choose one that is firm and not too soft.
- Green and red bell peppers: 1 each . Colorful and adds a lovely flavor.
- Garlic: 2 cloves . Freshly minced is the way to go.
- All-purpose flour: 2 tbsp (30ml) . This thickens the sauce.
- Chicken broth: 3 cups (710ml) . Low sodium is always a good choice.
- Cream cheese: 4 oz (115g) . Make sure it's softened so it melts nicely.
- Diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel): 1 can (10 oz/283g) . This is where the spice comes from.
- Heavy cream: 1/2 cup (120ml) . This makes the sauce extra creamy.
- Cajun seasoning: 1 tsp (5g) . Tony Chachere's is my go-to.
- Red pepper flakes: 1/2 tsp (2.5g) . Optional, for extra heat.
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: 1 cup (115g) . For that classic cheddar flavour.
- Shredded Monterey Jack cheese: 1 cup (115g) . Melts like a dream.
Seasoning Notes
Cajun seasoning is key to getting that Southern flavour. Tony Chachere's is a staple. Red pepper flakes? Adjust to your spice preference.
Honestly, sometimes I throw in a little more for a bigger kick.
Don't be scared to experiment with other Southern Comfort Food Recipes !
Equipment Needed
- Large pot.
- Large skillet.
- 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Colander.
- Measuring cups and spoons.
You don't need fancy equipment for this Baked Chicken Spaghetti Recipe . A regular baking dish will do the trick. The goal is a tasty Spicy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole , not a photoshoot for a cooking magazine.
The recipe is also one of my Easy Cheap Dinner Ideas . Enjoy! Finding Sides That Go With Chicken is easy, like a green salad, and enjoy this Weeknight Dinner Ideas !
Down Home Irresistible Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole!
Oh my gosh, y'all, let's talk comfort food! This Irresistible Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti ain't your average Baked Chicken Spaghetti Recipe .
It's a flavour explosion. Forget boring Family Food Ideas , this is where it's at. It's seriously the perfect Weeknight Dinner Ideas kinda dish.
We're talking creamy, cheesy, and with a spicy kick. Honestly, it's Southern comfort food at its finest. The original recipe is on allrecipes, but I've tweaked it to perfection, ya know? Now let's get cooking!
Prep Steps: Essential "Mise en Place"
First things first. Dice your onion, bell peppers, and mince the garlic. Measure out your spices. It's like getting all your ducks in a row.
Trust me, this mise en place step saves SO much time. It’s 20 minutes well spent! Safety first! Don’t burn yourself.
step-by-step Process: From Southern Kitchen to Table
Here’s how we turn simple ingredients into that Spicy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole :
- Cook your chicken. Season those 1.5 lbs of chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Sear in olive oil until they hit 165° F ( 74° C) . Shred 'em.
- Boil 1 lb of spaghetti until al dente. Don’t overcook. Nobody wants mushy spaghetti!
- Sauté your veggies in 1/2 cup butter. Cook until softened. Then add your minced garlic.
- Stir in 2 tbsp flour to make a roux. Then slowly whisk in 3 cups chicken broth. Let that simmer. Stir in 4 oz softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Now for the good stuff! Add a can of Rotel, 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1 tsp Cajun seasoning , and red pepper flakes (if you're brave!). Salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss that cooked spaghetti and chicken into the sauce. Make sure everything's coated in the sauce.
- Pour it all into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with 1 cup cheddar and 1 cup Monterey Jack.
- Bake at 350° F ( 175° C) for 30- 35 minutes . The cheese should be melted and bubbly. Let it sit for 5- 10 minutes before serving.
Pro Tips for Irresistible Goodness
Want to really nail this? Don’t overcook the pasta. It’s the worst mistake! Use a good quality Cajun seasoning Tony Chachere’s is my fave.
For Easy Cheap Dinner Ideas , use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time. It´s one of the best Southern Comfort Food Recipes .
And if you want extra golden brown cheese, broil for the last minute or two. This is a great Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Recipe !
Now go forth and make some Spicy Chicken Spaghetti Bake !
Recipe Notes for Your Down Home Spicy Chicken Spaghetti
Let's chat about some extra bits for this Irresistible Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti ! This chicken spaghetti bake is already pretty straightforward, but these tips will really make it shine.
Serving Up Some Southern Charm
Plating can really take this baked chicken spaghetti recipe to the next level. Think rustic! Serve straight from the baking dish.
Maybe add a sprinkle of fresh parsley. A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette is chef's kiss . And a glass of sweet tea? That's the Southern way, y'all.
For the adults? Maybe a chilled white wine. It is amazing with the flavors and the heat.
Storage Secrets for Leftovers
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This spicy chicken spaghetti casserole is even better the next day! Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to three days.
For longer storage, freezing is totally an option. Thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat it in the oven at 350° F ( 175° C) until heated through.
Or microwave it for a quick lunch. Just keep an eye on it!
Remixing the Classics: Chicken Spaghetti Style
Want to change things up? No problem! For a lighter version, use low-fat cream cheese and milk. And you've got a lighter, healthier creamy chicken spaghetti recipe .
For a fun seasonal twist, add some roasted butternut squash in the fall. So good !
Nutrition Basics: A Southern Comfort Hug
Okay, let's talk numbers. Each serving is about 550-650 calories. You are getting a good dose of protein and some carbs for energy. It's comforting and delicious. What can I say?
Enjoy this Easy Cheap Dinner Ideas with the Family, I know mine always will!
This Irresistible Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti recipe is your new best friend. It's perfect for weeknight dinner ideas or a family food ideas , and will be part of your Southern Comfort Food Recipes .
It is sure to impress. Don't be shy get in that kitchen and get cooking. You got this. Your family will thank you for this recipe, specially if you add these Sides That Go With Chicken!
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I adjust the spice level of this Irresistible Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti? I'm a bit of a delicate flower when it comes to heat!
No worries, sugar, we can dial down the fire! Start by reducing the Cajun seasoning and completely omit the red pepper flakes. You can also use a mild version of Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, or even substitute it with regular diced tomatoes for a completely spice free experience.
Remember, you can always add a little kick later, but you can't take it away!
Can I make this Irresistible Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti ahead of time? I'm hosting a potluck, and I want to get a head start like a true Southern hostess!
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole completely, but don't bake it. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven.
You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through. Think of it as your secret weapon for a stress free gathering!
What's the best way to store leftovers of this Down Home Spicy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can microwave individual portions or reheat the entire casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Just like a good pair of jeans, this dish is even better the second day, as the flavors have had time to meld!
I'm trying to eat a little healthier. Are there any lighter substitutions I can make in this Irresistible Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti recipe without sacrificing the flavour?
You betcha! Use low-fat cream cheese and skim milk instead of heavy cream to significantly reduce the fat content. You could also increase the amount of veggies, like adding mushrooms or zucchini.
Consider using whole wheat spaghetti for added fiber, and perhaps grilling or baking the chicken instead of searing it in oil. Small changes can make a big difference!
Can I use rotisserie chicken to make this Irresistible Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti, and how would that change the recipe?
Yes, ma'am! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut and a great way to use up leftovers. Simply shred the chicken and add it to the sauce according to the recipe instructions. Since the rotisserie chicken is already cooked and seasoned, you can skip the initial chicken cooking step, saving you time and effort.
Just be sure to remove the skin first, unless you're feeling particularly devilish!
Downhome Spicy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 550-650 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 30-40g |
| Fiber | 3-4g |
