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Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Bake, a comforting and flavorful casserole, is shown as the featured image.

Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Bake Ultimate

This Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Bake takes classic comfort food to the next level with a fiery kick and complex flavors. A combination of smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and chili powder creates a well-balanced spice blend, while cream cheese adds richness and binds the dish together for a truly unforgettable meal.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 650
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound spaghetti
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced adjust to taste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust to taste
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • Chopped green onions for garnish optional

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • large pot
  • colander
  • large skillet
  • Large bowl
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • knife
  • cutting board
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  2. Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.
  3. While the spaghetti is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, red bell pepper, and jalapeño pepper. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. In a large bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, tomato sauce mixture, shredded chicken, cream cheese, and sour cream. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.
  6. Pour the spaghetti mixture into the prepared baking dish.
  7. Top with cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese.
  8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is lightly browned.
  9. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.

Notes

Adjust the amount of jalapeño and cayenne pepper to your preferred level of spiciness. Rotisserie chicken works great for a quick and easy protein source. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For a milder flavor, consider omitting the jalapeño pepper altogether.