Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a dish that brings warmth and comfort to your dinner table. This recipe is hearty, filled with flavorful ingredients, and perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers. The combination of chicken and pasta creates a satisfying meal, while the spices add a nice kick. The creamy sauce and melted cheese make every bite irresistible. It’s an easy one-dish meal that’s great for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Prepare this casserole, and you’ll have a delicious and fulfilling meal ready in no time.
Why You’ll Love This Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
This casserole stands out for many reasons. First, it combines familiar flavors that everyone loves, like cheese and chicken. Second, it is packed with spices that give it a unique Southern flair. This dish also offers great comfort food vibes and is perfectly creamy and cheesy. Plus, it’s simple to prepare. You can toss everything together in one bowl, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you are cooking for your family or entertaining friends, this casserole will surely impress.
How to Make Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups cooked spaghetti
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine cooked spaghetti, shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, cheddar cheese, diced tomatoes, bell pepper, onion, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for added crunch.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and golden on top.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole!
How to Serve Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Serve this casserole hot out of the oven. It goes well with a fresh salad or some crusty bread. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top if you like.
How to Store Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze it for longer storage, up to three months. Just reheat it in the oven before serving.
Tips for the Best Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Make sure to not overcook your spaghetti, as it will cook more in the oven. You can customize the spice level by adjusting the cayenne pepper. Adding a bit of cream or extra cheese can make it even creamier.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables, such as spinach or mushrooms. You can also swap the chicken for turkey or keep it vegetarian by omitting the meat and using extra veggies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Yes! Using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds extra flavor to the casserole.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Certainly! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just bake it the next day!
What can I serve with this casserole?
This dish pairs nicely with a simple green salad or some garlic bread. Enjoy!
Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
A hearty and comforting casserole filled with chicken, spaghetti, and spices, topped with creamy sauce and melted cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked spaghetti
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine cooked spaghetti, shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, cheddar cheese, diced tomatoes, bell pepper, onion, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for added crunch.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and golden on top.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole!
Notes
You can make this casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Make sure to not overcook your spaghetti, as it will cook more in the oven.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
