Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken has a way of making any weeknight feel like a special occasion. I remember my Grandma Mae making a version of this dish every Sunday after church – the aroma of melted cheddar and savory chicken wafting from her kitchen was pure magic. She’d always say it was her special way of giving us a little bit of that cheesy chicken with a southern kick we all craved. Now, when I’m craving that same comforting taste, I know exactly how to make spicy southern cheesy chicken that brings back all those wonderful memories. Get ready to create your own delicious tradition! Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken
- Incredible flavor explosion: a perfect balance of cheesy, spicy, and savory
- Super quick prep time: ready for the oven in just 15 minutes
- Family favorite: picky eaters and adults alike will devour this
- Budget-friendly comfort food: uses common, affordable ingredients
- This cheesy chicken recipe southern style is incredibly satisfying
- A versatile dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks
- You’ll adore this easy cheesy chicken recipe southern style
- A taste of home that feels both familiar and exciting
Ingredients for Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken
Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to creating a truly delicious meal. We’re talking about a wonderfully satisfying dish that’s packed with flavor. To make this spicy chicken with cheese and southern spices, you’ll need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 ounces spaghetti – cooked al dente and drained
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded – adds that essential gooeyness
- 1 cup bell peppers (any color), finely diced – for a touch of sweetness and color
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup – the creamy base of our sauce
- 1 teaspoon paprika – for color and mild flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper – this brings the Southern heat!
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – essential for savory depth
- 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped – for a fresh garnish
How to Make Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken
Creating this delightful casserole is straightforward and incredibly rewarding. It’s the perfect way to bring a comforting, cheesy meal to your table. This recipe for an easy spicy southern cheesy chicken dish comes together with simple steps.
- Step 1: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish. This prevents sticking and ensures a beautiful presentation.
- Step 2: In a large skillet, cook the chicken pieces over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes per side. You’re looking for them to be golden brown and cooked through – the sizzle is a great cue!
- Step 3: While the chicken cooks, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add your spaghetti and cook until it’s al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain it well so your casserole isn’t watery.
- Step 4: Shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, drained spaghetti, the can of cream of chicken soup, diced bell peppers, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and about half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything gently until it’s well combined. This mixture will smell amazing!
- Step 5: Pour the chicken and spaghetti mixture into your prepared casserole dish. Spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese generously over the top. This cheesy layer is key to that perfect, bubbly finish.
- Step 6: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and has a lovely golden-brown color. The aroma filling your kitchen will be incredible. This step really makes it an easy spicy southern cheesy chicken!
- Step 7: Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to serve. Garnish with fresh chopped green onions just before serving for a pop of color and fresh flavor, completing your easy spicy southern cheesy chicken.
Pro Tips for the Best Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken
Want to elevate your casserole game? These simple tips will ensure your dish is a showstopper every time. They’re the little things that make a big difference in achieving that perfect flavor and texture.
- For extra flavor depth, use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika.
- Shred your own cheddar cheese from a block; pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that can affect meltiness.
- Don’t overcook the spaghetti; it will continue to cook in the oven, and mushy pasta is a common pitfall.
- Taste your mixture before baking and adjust seasonings – especially the cayenne pepper – to your personal heat preference.
What’s the secret to perfect Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken?
The real secret to that perfect flavor is a combination of quality ingredients and balancing the heat. Using sharp cheddar and just the right amount of cayenne pepper creates that authentic Southern kick. This is truly an authentic southern spicy cheesy chicken experience.
Can I make Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the entire casserole, minus the topping cheese, up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add the cheese, and add about 10 minutes to the baking time.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken?
Avoid mushy pasta by cooking your spaghetti just until al dente. Also, don’t overbake the casserole, as this can dry it out. Ensure your chicken is cooked through and shredded properly for the best texture.
Best Ways to Serve Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken
This dish is so versatile, it’s a true crowd-pleaser! For a complete Southern comfort meal, I love pairing it with a crisp, fresh green salad. The cool, crunchy greens offer a lovely contrast to the warm, cheesy chicken. Another fantastic option is serving it alongside some creamy mashed potatoes or a simple side of steamed green beans. If you’re looking for something a bit more hearty, you could even serve it with a side that complements the idea of a Southern fried cheesy chicken, perhaps some collard greens or even a light cornbread. For a similar comforting vibe, check out this twice-baked potato casserole.
Nutrition Facts for Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken
Here’s a look at the nutritional breakdown for a serving of this delicious dish. This information helps you understand what you’re enjoying with each bite of this comforting casserole.
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sugar: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
- Sodium: 800 mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more information on healthy eating, consult with a registered dietitian.
How to Store and Reheat Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken
This delightful dish is perfect for making ahead, which is a lifesaver on busy weeknights! Once your Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken has cooled down completely – this is important to prevent condensation and spoilage – transfer it into airtight containers. For refrigeration, it will keep well in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to store it for longer, this Southern style cheesy chicken casserole freezes beautifully. Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and pop them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, the best way to reheat is in the oven. Place a serving in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave it, but the oven method gives you that lovely, fresh-baked texture back!
Frequently Asked Questions About Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken
What makes this chicken spicy?
The heat in this dish comes from the cayenne pepper. I’ve found that 1/2 teaspoon gives it a pleasant warmth that complements the cheese without being overwhelming. If you enjoy a real kick, feel free to add a little more!
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are often more flavorful and forgiving, meaning they are less likely to dry out. You can use boneless, skinless thighs, cut into similar bite-sized pieces, and follow the same cooking instructions. It’s a great way to make an already delicious dish even richer.
How can I make this a “Spicy baked southern chicken recipe” without pasta?
You can easily adapt this into a more traditional baked chicken dish. Simply mix the cooked chicken, bell peppers, spices, and half the cheese with a little less cream of chicken soup (you might only need about half a can). Place this mixture in a baking dish, top with the remaining cheese, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors in a different format.
What if I don’t have cream of chicken soup?
No worries! You can substitute with cream of mushroom soup or even a can of condensed milk mixed with a tablespoon of chicken bouillon for a similar creamy base. Some people also use a mixture of sour cream and cream cheese for an extra decadent sauce, though this will change the flavor profile a bit.
Variations of Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken You Can Try
This casserole is so wonderfully adaptable, you can tweak it to fit your needs and cravings. It’s a fantastic base for creating your own signature version of this beloved Southern dish, ensuring it remains a go-to spicy cheesy chicken comfort food.
- Low-Carb/Keto Version: Skip the spaghetti and use spiralized zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead. You’ll get all the cheesy, spicy goodness with fewer carbs.
- Spicy Cheesy Chicken Skillet: Instead of baking, make this a one-pan meal. Sauté the chicken and veggies, then add cooked pasta, soup, spices, and cheese directly to the skillet. Cook over low heat until bubbly and melted.
- Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Bake: Swap the bell peppers for steamed broccoli florets for a fresh twist. The broccoli adds a nice earthiness that pairs beautifully with the spicy cheese sauce.
- Vegetarian Delight: Omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, corn, or black beans for a hearty vegetarian meal that still delivers that satisfying spicy cheesy flavor.
Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken: Unbeatable Comfort
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A warm and comforting casserole featuring tender chicken, spaghetti, and a creamy, cheesy sauce with a spicy Southern kick. Perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
- 2 pieces Chicken Breasts
- 8 ounces Spaghetti
- 2 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese
- 1 cup Bell Peppers
- 1 can Cream of Chicken Soup
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 2 tablespoons Green Onions
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a casserole dish.
- Cook chicken in a large pot over medium heat for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Boil spaghetti in salted water until al dente, around 8-10 minutes.
- Mix shredded chicken, cooked spaghetti, cream of chicken soup, chopped bell peppers, spices, and half of the cheddar cheese in a large bowl.
- Transfer mixture to the greased casserole dish and top with remaining cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Rest for 5 minutes and garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Notes
- Serve with a fresh side salad for a balanced meal.
- Can be customized with shrimp or vegetables.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
