Description
Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a delightful comfort dish that fuses tender chicken, zesty marinara sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, topped with gooey cheddar cheese. This easy-to-make casserole bursts with flavor and color, making it an ideal centerpiece for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. With its spicy kick and creamy texture, it’s sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters at your table.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 8 oz spaghetti or preferred pasta
- 24 oz spicy marinara sauce
- 1 cup chopped bell peppers (mixed red and green)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, drizzle olive oil and sauté diced chicken until golden brown and cooked through (7-10 minutes). Season with salt and pepper.
- Add chopped onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic to the skillet; sauté until softened (about 5 minutes). Stir in spicy marinara sauce and simmer for a few minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta with the chicken mixture and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir well.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, top with remaining cheese, sprinkle Italian seasoning on top, and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (approximately 230g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: For added spice, mix in jalapeños or adjust cayenne pepper levels. You can also substitute chicken with turkey or add veggies like spinach for extra nutrition.