Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that brings together the warmth of Southern cooking with a bold, flavorful kick. This casserole is layered with tender chicken, creamy cheese, and spaghetti, all baked until bubbling and golden. The addition of spice makes it stand out from traditional casseroles, giving it just the right amount of heat without overwhelming the dish. It is filling enough to serve as a complete meal, making it perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or gatherings where you need a crowd-pleaser. The flavors blend beautifully—savory chicken, creamy sauce, melted cheese, and pasta that soaks up all the goodness. The best part is how easy it is to prepare, using simple pantry staples with just a few extra ingredients to elevate it. If you are looking for a comforting recipe with Southern flair and a touch of spice, this casserole will not disappoint.
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Irresistible Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole: Comfort Food with a Kick
- Total Time: 50 mins
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A creamy, cheesy, and spicy Southern-style baked spaghetti casserole loaded with tender chicken, peppers, and bold Cajun flavors.
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic, cooking until softened.
- Stir in diced tomatoes with green chilies, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, Cajun seasoning, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Add shredded chicken and cooked spaghetti to the skillet mixture and stir until evenly coated.
- Transfer mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese evenly on top.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, until hot and bubbly.
- Remove from oven, sprinkle with remaining cheese, and bake for 5 more minutes until melted.
- Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for quicker prep.
- Adjust spice by adding more or less cayenne pepper.
- Pairs well with garlic bread and a fresh green salad.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 35 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Chicken
Shredded cooked chicken is the star of this dish, providing protein and a hearty texture that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
Spaghetti
Cooked spaghetti forms the base of the casserole, absorbing flavors while giving structure and substance to the dish.
Cheddar Cheese
Sharp cheddar adds richness and a tangy bite, melting beautifully to form a creamy, gooey layer throughout.
Cream of Mushroom Soup
This creamy base brings moisture and depth, ensuring the casserole stays rich and comforting.
Cream of Chicken Soup
Enhances the chicken flavor and adds creaminess, making the sauce indulgent and satisfying.
Rotel Tomatoes with Green Chilies
This ingredient delivers both zest and spice, infusing the casserole with a Southern kick.
Bell Peppers
Chopped bell peppers provide sweetness and crunch, balancing the richness of the creamy sauce.
Onion
Adds a savory depth that complements the chicken and spices beautifully.
Jalapeños
For an extra spicy kick, diced jalapeños add heat and bold flavor.
Garlic Powder
A simple seasoning that enhances the overall flavor without overpowering the dish.
Paprika
Adds smokiness and a touch of warmth, balancing the spice from the chilies.
Salt and Black Pepper
These essentials heighten all the other flavors and bring the dish together.
Olive Oil or Butter
Used to sauté vegetables, adding richness and depth to the base layer of flavor.
Directions
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a large baking dish. Cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside. In a skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat and sauté the onions, bell peppers, and jalapeños until softened and fragrant.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, Rotel tomatoes, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir in the sautéed vegetables, mixing until the ingredients are evenly distributed. Fold in half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
Next, add the cooked spaghetti to the mixture and toss until the noodles are well coated. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese. Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden around the edges. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 8 servings, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Preparation takes around 20 minutes, while baking requires 30–35 minutes. With resting time, the total preparation and cooking process takes about 1 hour.
Storage/reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake covered at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual servings for 2–3 minutes. For frozen portions, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variations and Customizations
Extra Cheesy Version
Add Monterey Jack or mozzarella along with cheddar for a creamier, meltier topping.
Tex-Mex Style
Include black beans and corn for a hearty, Southwestern-inspired twist.
Creamy White Sauce
Replace cream soups with a homemade white sauce for a fresher, less processed option.
Seafood Swap
Substitute chicken with shrimp or crawfish for a coastal Southern variation.
Vegetarian Version
Skip the chicken and add mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for a veggie-friendly casserole.
Spice Control
Use mild Rotel and omit jalapeños if you prefer less heat, or add hot sauce for more intensity.
Crunchy Topping
Sprinkle crushed tortilla chips or fried onions on top before baking for extra texture.
Bacon Boost
Mix in crumbled bacon for smoky, salty richness.
Healthy Twist
Use whole-wheat spaghetti, reduced-fat cheese, and light cream soups for a lighter option.
Make-Ahead Option
Assemble the casserole a day in advance, refrigerate, then bake just before serving.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken in this recipe?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time.
Can I substitute spaghetti with another pasta?
Yes, penne, fettuccine, or linguine all work well.
How spicy is this casserole?
It has moderate heat, but you can adjust the spice level by adding or reducing jalapeños and Rotel.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
What cheese works best besides cheddar?
Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack are excellent alternatives.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, it freezes well for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight before reheating.
How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?
Cover with foil if reheating and avoid overbaking.
Conclusion
Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate comfort food with a flavorful twist. Packed with tender chicken, creamy sauce, melted cheese, and just the right amount of spice, it is satisfying, versatile, and perfect for any occasion. Whether served at a family dinner, a church gathering, or a holiday potluck, this casserole is guaranteed to impress. With endless customization options, you can tailor it to suit your taste and make it a regular favorite in your recipe collection.
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