Irresistible Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Introduction

Did you know that a comforting casserole can serve as both a hearty meal and a delightful family bonding experience? The “Irresistible Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole” combines rich, savory flavors with a hint of spice that will leave your taste buds dancing. This dish is a fantastic way to enjoy a Southern twist on traditional spaghetti while packing a nutritious punch. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that will kick your dinner plans into high gear!

Ingredients List

To create this Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb of spaghetti
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 cup cream of chicken soup (you can substitute with a healthier low-fat option)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust based on your spice preference)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Feel free to swap in whole grain or gluten-free spaghetti for a healthier alternative!

Timing

This recipe is not only delicious but also convenient. Here’s a breakdown of the time required:

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes (that’s about 20% less time than the average casserole recipe!)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and stir for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

To the sautéed vegetables, add the shredded chicken, diced tomatoes with green chilies, cream of chicken soup, paprika, cayenne pepper, and cooked spaghetti. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.

Step 5: Bake

Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until bubbling and golden brown on top. For an extra crispy topping, you could broil it for an additional 2-3 minutes (just be careful to prevent burning).

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional facts per serving (based on a 6-serving recipe):

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fat: 15g
• Sodium: 650mg

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Looking to make this casserole even healthier? Consider the following alternatives:

• Use whole grain or spiralized zucchini pasta for lower carbs.
• Replace cream of chicken soup with a homemade version using low-fat yogurt for creaminess without the extra calories.
• Incorporate sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and spinach for additional nutrients.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables. Serve with a side of garlic bread or cornbread for a true Southern experience. Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for that extra pop of color!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Noodles: Ensure your spaghetti is cooked al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Always preheat to get the best results when baking casseroles.
• Skipping the Cheese: While tempting to leave it out for a healthier dish, cheese adds essential flavor and creaminess to the casserole.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

This casserole is perfect for leftovers! Here are some tips to keep it fresh:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If freezing, allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or in the microwave for a quick meal.

Conclusion

The Irresistible Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a delicious and easy way to spice up your dinner routine. Packed with flavor and comfort, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Try it today and share your thoughts in the comments! If you love this recipe, subscribe for more delightful updates!

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it right before serving.

What can I use instead of chicken?

If you’re looking for alternatives to chicken, you can use shredded turkey or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian option.

How spicy is this casserole?

The casserole offers a moderate level of spice due to the cayenne pepper; however, you can adjust the spice by adding less or substituting with a milder seasoning.

Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?

Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them with the onions.

Irresistible Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

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• Author: sophiebennet
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

Savor the bold flavors in this Irresistible Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe Perfect for family dinners or gatherings 155 chars

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

1 lb of spaghetti

2 cups cooked shredded chicken

1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies

1 cup cream of chicken soup

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 onion, chopped

3 garlic cloves, minced

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions, drain and set aside.

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and sauté the onion until translucent. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.

Combine the chicken, diced tomatoes, cream of chicken soup, paprika, cayenne pepper, and spaghetti in the skillet, and mix well.

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and sprinkle cheese over the top.

Bake for 25 minutes until bubbling and golden brown, optionally broil for 2-3 minutes for a crispy topping.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Bake
• Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

• Calories: 450 calories
• Sodium: 650 mg
• Fat: 15 grams
• Saturated Fat: 15 grams
• Carbohydrates: 50 grams
• Protein: 30 grams

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