Name: Southern Comfort: Zesty Chicken Spaghetti Bake That Wows
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced; 12 oz spaghetti or pasta of your choice; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack); 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 1 green bell pepper, chopped; 1 small onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz); 1 cup black olives, sliced; 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp chili powder; 1/2 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

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Southern Comfort: Zesty Chicken Spaghetti Bake That Wows 🍗🍝✨

1. Introduction

Nothing beats a comforting, flavorful casserole that’s packed with zest and spice — especially when it’s a spicy chicken spaghetti casserole. This Southern chicken casserole is a crowd-pleaser, combining tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a zesty sauce baked to perfection. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or preparing a cozy weeknight meal, this irresistible spaghetti casserole will quickly become a favorite in your recipe arsenal. Ready to dive into the deliciousness? Let’s get started!

2. Ingredients for Zesty Chicken Spaghetti Bake

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (more chicken recipes)
12 oz spaghetti or pasta of your choice (pasta options)
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
1 cup black olives, sliced
1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (dip ideas)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Zesty Chicken Spaghetti Bake

Prepare the Pasta and Chicken

Cook the spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and set aside. If you haven’t pre-cooked your chicken, you can use leftovers or cook fresh chicken breasts and shred them.

Prepare the Veggie and Sauce Mixture

In a large skillet, heat olive oil. Sauté diced onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic until tender. Add diced tomatoes, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.

Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, shredded chicken, sautéed vegetables, diced olives, and sour cream. Mix well to coat everything evenly. For extra flavor, you can stir in a dash of hot sauce or additional spices.

Assemble and Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheese generously on top. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Zesty 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, simply microwave or bake until heated through. For longer storage, you can also freeze portions for up to 2 months.

5. Serving Suggestions to Enhance Your Meal

This Southern chicken casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. Want to add extra crunch? Top with crispy fried onions or chopped fresh herbs before serving. For an added smoky flavor, sprinkle some smoked paprika or serve with a side of garlic bread.

6. FAQs About Spicy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Can I make this casserole dairy-free?

Yes, substitute cheese with dairy-free options like vegan cheese or nutritional yeast. Use coconut cream or dairy-free sour cream to maintain creaminess.

Can I use cooked leftover chicken?

Absolutely! Leftover roasted or boiled chicken works perfectly, making this an easy Southern chicken casserole to whip up with leftovers.

How long does it take to prepare this spicy chicken spaghetti dish?

The total prep and cook time is approximately 45 minutes — 15 minutes to prepare ingredients and 30 minutes baking.

Are there gluten-free options available?

Yes, swap regular spaghetti for gluten-free pasta options to make a gluten-free irresistible spaghetti casserole.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

Enhance your cooking experience with these essential kitchen tools:

Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master — Perfect for chopping vegetables quickly and uniformly, saving you time and effort.
Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker — Keep your beverages cool during meal prep or enjoy a refreshing drink while cooking.
Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker — Ideal for preparing chicken in advance for a hands-free cooking experience.
CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set — Ensures your cookware high-quality nonstick surface, making cooking and cleaning easier.

8. Related Recipes to Explore

If you love this Southern chicken casserole, you might also enjoy:

9. Conclusion

Mastering this spicy chicken spaghetti casserole is a fantastic way to bring bold flavors and comfort to your dinner table. Its vibrant ingredients, cheesy topping, and zesty sauce make it an irresistible Southern chicken casserole that everyone will love. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and satisfying. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and create a casserole that will surely impress. Happy cooking!

Southern Comfort: Zesty Chicken Spaghetti Bake That Wows