Name: Healthy Irresistible Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole You’ll Love
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded; 12 oz whole wheat spaghetti or gluten-free pasta; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 large onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference); 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

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Healthy Irresistible Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole 🐔🌶️🍝

1. Introduction

Welcome to a flavorful adventure with our Healthy Irresistible Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole. This savory splash of a dish combines the comforting richness of Southern-style chicken and spaghetti with a bold, spicy twist. Perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings, this recipe is designed to be both nutritious and irresistibly delicious. If you’re a fan of savory dishes with a spicy kick, you’ll love how this casserole elevates traditional comfort food with healthy ingredients and explosive flavor.

Discover how to make a spicy chicken casserole that balances heat, flavor, and wholesome goodness. For more savory splash recipes, check out our collection of [dinner recipes](https://dinnerrecipesidea.com/category/dinner/) and explore other delightful ideas like the recipe collection.

2. Ingredient List

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
12 oz whole wheat spaghetti or gluten-free pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

Optional: For an extra spicy touch, incorporate chopped jalapeños or hot sauce.

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3. Step-by-Step Instructions

3.1. Prepare the Chicken

Start by cooking your chicken breasts until fully cooked. You can poach, bake, or use pre-cooked shredded chicken for extra convenience. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.

3.2. Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook the whole wheat spaghetti or preferred pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

3.3. Sauté Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, garlic, and diced red bell pepper. Cook until vegetables are tender and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

3.4. Combine and Season

Add cherry tomatoes, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to coat the vegetables evenly with spices. Pour in chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.

3.5. Mix Chicken and Pasta

Add shredded chicken and cooked pasta to the skillet. Mix thoroughly, allowing the flavors to meld over low heat for about 3-5 minutes. Adjust seasoning if needed.

3.6. Add Cheese and Bake

Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with shredded cheddar cheese. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden.

4. Storage Tips and Serving Suggestions

This spicy southern chicken spaghetti casserole is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through for a quick meal.

Serve with a side of fresh salad or steamed vegetables. For an extra savory splash, drizzle with hot sauce or serve with a slice of [caramel toffee crunch cake](https://amzn.to/4jS4412) for a delightful dessert pairing.

5. Variations and Customizations

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or switching up the cheese for a different flavor profile. For added heat, incorporate chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to enhance the spicy elements. This dish pairs excellently with [creamy protein pasta bowls](https://dinnerrecipesidea.com/creamy-protein-pasta-bowl-in-15-minutes-bitetide/) for a varied savory splash.

6. Tips for Success

Use cooked and shredded chicken for faster assembly.
Adjust the cayenne pepper based on your heat preference.
Top with cheese during the last few minutes of baking to ensure a golden crust.
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7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I make this spicy chicken spaghetti casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the casserole, assemble it, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve. It keeps well for up to 24 hours in the fridge, making it ideal for meal prep.

Q2: How spicy is this recipe?

The dish has a moderate spice level, thanks to cayenne pepper and optional jalapeños. Adjust the heat by reducing or increasing the cayenne and hot sauce.

Q3: What are some good sides to serve with this spicy casserole?

Complement it with fresh salads, steamed greens, or cornbread. For more ideas, visit our [lunch](https://dinnerrecipesidea.com/category/lunch/) and [dinner](https://dinnerrecipesidea.com/category/dinner/) sections.

8. Final Thoughts

This Healthy Irresistible Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole showcases a perfect savory splash of bold flavors and wholesome ingredients. Rich in protein and packed with spices, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Elevate your dinner game with this easy-to-make, flavorful, and spicy comfort food that everyone will love. For more mouthwatering recipes, explore our [recipe collection](https://dinnerrecipesidea.com/). Print

Healthy Irresistible Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole You’ll Love