Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Bake: A Comfort Food Masterpiece

Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Bake: A Comfort Food Masterpiece 🌶️🍝🔥

1. Introduction

If you’re searching for a hearty, flavorful dish that combines the comforting allure of traditional southern cooking with a spicy kick, look no further than the Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Bake. This delicious pasta bake offers a perfect blend of tender chicken, rich sauce, and a hint of heat, making it an ideal family dinner or weekend comfort food. Whether you’re a fan of southern casseroles or love a spicy twist on classic American comfort foods, this dish will quickly become a favorite.

2. Ingredients for Spicy Chicken Spaghetti

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cooked and shredded
• 12 oz (340g) spaghetti pasta
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup or cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup diced green bell peppers
• 1/2 cup diced onions
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-2 fresh jalapeños, sliced (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh chopped parsley or cilantro for garnish

3. How to Make Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Bake

Preparation of ingredients

Start by cooking the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside. While the pasta cooks, prepare the chicken by cooking and shredding it, or use pre-cooked chicken for convenience. Sauté the onions, bell peppers, and garlic in a skillet until tender and fragrant.

Mixing the creamy sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, smoked paprika, chili powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir in the cooked chicken, sautéed vegetables, and sliced jalapeños. Add half of the shredded cheese and mix well.

Assembling the casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, layer the cooked spaghetti and top with the chicken mixture. Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over the top. For an extra spicy touch, increase the jalapeño slices or add hot sauce.

Baking the Spicy chicken spaghetti

Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or cilantro before serving.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Spicy Chicken Spaghetti

Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing. Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave or re-bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. For longer storage, freeze individual portions and thaw overnight in the fridge.

5. Serving Suggestions for Your Southern Spaghetti Casserole

This spicy chicken pasta bake is versatile, pairing beautifully with a side of garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or sautéed vegetables. Add a dollop of sour cream or a splash of hot sauce to enhance the heat. For a complete southern-inspired meal, consider serving with cornbread or steamed collard greens.

6. FAQs about Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken from scratch?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a convenient and flavorful option that cuts down preparation time. Simply shred and add it to the mixture.

How spicy is this dish?

The recipe includes sliced jalapeños and optional cayenne pepper. Adjust the amount of peppers and spices according to your heat preference.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the fridge.

What are some substitutions for cream of mushroom soup?

You can use cream of chicken, or make a homemade béchamel sauce for a richer flavor. Check out this recipe for easy sauce ideas.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

To make your cooking experience easier and more enjoyable, consider using some of these highly rated kitchen tools:

• CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set — this set ensures your pasta and sauces don’t stick, making cleanup a breeze.
• Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master — perfect for chopping vegetables quickly and safely.
• Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker — great for prepping the chicken or keeping leftovers warm.
• Ninja Air Fryer Pro Crisp & Roast 4-in-1 — quick way to cook or reheat leftovers with crispy perfection.

8. Related Recipes You Might Like

• Effortless Zesty Honey Pepper Chicken Pasta
• Quick Honey Mustard Chicken & Rice
• Ultimate Slow Cooker Teriyaki

9. Conclusion

The Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Bake is a perfect dish for those craving comfort food with a spicy twist. It’s easy to prepare, full of flavor, and adaptable to your taste preferences. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or preparing leftovers for lunch, this Southern spaghetti casserole is sure to impress. Give it a try today and enjoy a taste of southern hospitality with a fiery flair!

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