If you are craving a comforting, hearty dinner with just the right amount of kick, this Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe is here to warm your soul and excite your taste buds. It combines tender shredded chicken, al dente spaghetti, creamy soups, and a medley of spices and vegetables, all baked into a bubbly, cheesy delight. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe delivers a burst of Southern charm while bringing spicy, cheesy goodness to the table in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting your ingredients ready for the Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe is simple, yet each element is essential to building layers of flavor and texture. From the creamy soups that give richness, to the fresh bell peppers that add color and crunch, each ingredient works harmoniously to create a casserole that’s as vibrant as it is satisfying.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: Use leftover or rotisserie chicken for tender, flavorful protein.
- 12 oz spaghetti, cooked and drained: Be sure to cook to al dente so it holds up well in the bake.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup: Adds a velvety, earthy undertone that enriches the sauce.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: Boosts the creamy base with savory depth.
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies: Injects a spicy, tangy punch that sets this casserole apart.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully, creating that irresistible golden crust.
- 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers (red or green): Brings sweetness and a pop of color to the dish.
- 1/2 cup chopped onion: Provides a natural sweetness and enhances savory flavors.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Delivers a hint of aromatic warmth.
- 1 tsp onion powder: Complements the fresh onions with a gentle punch.
- 1/2 tsp paprika: Adds smokiness and vibrant color.
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper: Brings a subtle heat that lingers on the palate.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing all the flavors.
- 2 tbsp butter: Used to sauté veggies, adding richness and helping develop flavor.
- Non-stick cooking spray: Keeps your casserole from sticking and makes cleanup easy.
How to Make Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Get Your Oven and Dish Ready
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray so your casserole won’t stick during baking. Setting this up early lets you focus on preparing the flavorful filling without a hitch.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and toss in your chopped onions and bell peppers. Sauté them gently until they become tender and translucent, about 5 minutes. This step releases their natural sweetness and softens the veggies perfectly to throw into the casserole.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Chicken Base
Grab a large mixing bowl and combine the shredded chicken, sautéed onions and peppers, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well until it looks like a creamy, spicy medley full of flavor.
Step 4: Fold in the Spaghetti
Add the cooked spaghetti into your chicken and sauce mixture. Gently fold it in with a spatula or spoon, making sure every strand gets coated in that rich and spicy sauce. This helps marry the textures so each bite holds both sauciness and bite.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, smoothing it out evenly. Then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously on top — this cheese layer is going to melt into a bubbly, golden crust that ties the whole casserole together beautifully.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll want to watch for the cheese on top to bubble up and turn a lovely light golden brown, signaling that everything inside is hot, set, and ready to enjoy.
Step 7: Let It Rest
Once out of the oven, allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes. This resting time helps it firm up slightly, making it easier to serve while letting all the flavors settle and mingle perfectly before it hits your plate.
How to Serve Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To add a fresh and vibrant finish, sprinkle chopped green onions, fresh parsley, or even a few slices of jalapeño on top. These garnishes brighten the dish with a pop of color and can enhance the spicy southern vibes with a fresh kick.
Side Dishes
This Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe pairs beautifully with simple sides like a crisp garden salad, buttery cornbread, or roasted vegetables. These sides balance the richness of the casserole and add textural contrast to make your meal complete.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in mini ramekins for parties or potlucks. You can also top each serving with a fried egg or a dollop of sour cream to add creaminess and a Southern-style flair that’s sure to impress guests!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your casserole, transfer any leftovers into airtight containers and refrigerate. They will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making for easy next-day lunches or dinners.
Freezing
If you want to save the Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe for later, it freezes wonderfully. Wrap tightly with foil or store in freezer-safe containers, and it will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, usually about 15–20 minutes. For a quicker option, microwave individual servings on medium power, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming without drying out the delicious casserole.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this casserole?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional here, you can swap in other pastas like penne, rotini, or even elbow macaroni. Just be mindful of cooking times and draining the pasta well to keep the right texture.
How spicy is this Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe?
The heat level is moderate thanks to the cayenne pepper and diced tomatoes with green chilies. You can adjust the spiciness by reducing or increasing the cayenne or substituting milder tomatoes if preferred.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based protein, and use vegetable cream soups instead of chicken-based ones. The bold spices and veggies still make it flavorful and satisfying.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Definitely. This casserole freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep. Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing and reheat it thoroughly before serving.
What cheese works best for this dish?
Sharp cheddar cheese is ideal as it melts nicely and adds a tangy flavor. However, you can experiment with Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend of cheeses for varied flavor profiles.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly comforting about baking up a hearty casserole like this Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe that brings warmth, spice, and satisfaction all in one dish. Whether you’re feeding family or friends or treating yourself after a busy day, this recipe is one that will quickly become a beloved staple. So grab your ingredients, turn on the oven, and get ready for a flavorful Southern-inspired meal that tastes like home.
Print
Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
This Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish combining tender shredded chicken, sautéed vegetables, creamy soups, and a spicy kick from diced tomatoes with green chilies and cayenne pepper. Baked to perfection with a melted cheddar cheese topping, it’s an easy-to-make casserole that’s perfect for dinner or potlucks.
Ingredients
Chicken and Pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 12 oz spaghetti, cooked and drained
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers (red or green)
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
Soups and Canned Goods
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
Cheese and Dairy
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
Other
- Non-stick cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onions and bell peppers, sautéing until they become tender, about 5 minutes.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, sautéed onions and bell peppers, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, diced tomatoes with green chilies, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Stir well to blend all the flavors.
- Add Spaghetti: Gently fold the cooked spaghetti into the mixture, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce and chicken mixture.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the combined mixture to the prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it stand for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and to cool slightly.
Notes
- You can substitute cooked rotisserie chicken if short on time.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper to your preferred level of spiciness.
- For a creamier casserole, add a splash of milk or half-and-half to the soup mixture.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
- To make it lighter, use reduced-fat cheddar cheese and low-fat soup options.
