Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Name: Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Delight!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked spaghetti; 1 lb cooked chicken, shredded; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup; 1 cup sour cream; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup diced tomatoes with green chilies; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste); Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup green onions, chopped

Posted on September 4, 2025

Dinner

Introduction to Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Welcome to a cozy corner of comfort food! If you’re like me, juggling a busy life while trying to whip up something delicious for your family can feel like a high-wire act. That’s where my Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole comes in. It’s a delightful dish that combines creamy cheese, tender chicken, and a kick of spice, making it perfect for those hectic weeknights. This casserole is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate, sure to impress your loved ones and satisfy even the pickiest eaters!

Why You’ll Love This Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

This Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a lifesaver for busy moms and professionals alike. It’s quick to prepare, taking just 15 minutes of your time, and it bakes to perfection in under 30 minutes. The combination of creamy cheese and zesty chicken creates a flavor explosion that will have your family asking for seconds. Plus, it’s a one-dish wonder, making cleanup a breeze!

Ingredients for Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this mouthwatering Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole. Here’s what you’ll need:

Cooked spaghetti: This serves as the hearty base of the casserole, soaking up all the delicious flavors.
Cooked chicken: Shredded chicken adds protein and makes this dish filling. You can use rotisserie chicken for a quick option!
Cream of chicken soup: This creamy ingredient binds everything together, adding richness and moisture.

Sour cream: It brings a tangy flavor and creaminess that balances the spices beautifully.
Shredded cheddar cheese: A must-have for that gooey, cheesy topping that everyone loves.
Diced tomatoes with green chilies: These add a zesty kick and a pop of color to the dish.

Garlic powder: A sprinkle of this enhances the overall flavor, giving it that comforting aroma.
Onion powder: It complements the garlic and adds depth to the dish without the hassle of chopping onions.
Cayenne pepper: This is where the spice comes in! Adjust it to your taste for a mild or fiery kick.

Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, these help to elevate all the flavors in the casserole.
Green onions: Chopped and sprinkled on top, they add a fresh crunch and a burst of color.

For those who like it extra spicy, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, just ensure your spaghetti is made from gluten-free ingredients. You can find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!

How to Make Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making this Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal that your family will love.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that your casserole cooks evenly. No one wants a soggy bottom or a cold center! While the oven warms up, you can get everything else ready.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and diced tomatoes. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. You want every noodle and piece of chicken coated in that creamy goodness!

Step 3: Transfer to Baking Dish

Next, grab a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Greasing it helps prevent sticking, making cleanup easier. Pour the mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly. This ensures that every bite is packed with flavor and that it bakes uniformly.

Step 4: Add Toppings

Now for the fun part—toppings! Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top. This will melt into a gooey layer of deliciousness. Then, add the chopped green onions for a fresh crunch and a pop of color. It’s all about that presentation!

Step 5: Bake

Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Once it’s out of the oven, let the casserole cool for a few minutes. This step is important because it allows the flavors to settle and makes serving easier. Trust me, you don’t want to burn your mouth on that cheesy goodness!

Tips for Success

Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy protein boost.

Don’t skip the preheating step; it’s key for even cooking.
Feel free to adjust the cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference.
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving to enhance flavors.

For a creamier texture, add an extra dollop of sour cream.

Equipment Needed

9×13 inch baking dish: A classic choice, but any oven-safe dish will work.
Large mixing bowl: Use a sturdy bowl for easy mixing; a pot can work too!

Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accuracy; you can eyeball it if you’re feeling adventurous.
Spatula: Perfect for mixing and spreading the casserole evenly.
Oven mitts: Don’t forget these to protect your hands when handling hot dishes!

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms or a mix of your favorite vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for a hearty vegetarian dish.
Spicy Kick: For an extra kick, add diced jalapeños or a splash of your favorite hot sauce to the mixture.
Cheese Lovers: Mix in different types of cheese, like pepper jack or mozzarella, for a unique flavor twist.

Low-Carb Version: Substitute spaghetti with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash to create a low-carb alternative.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a burst of freshness and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast to the rich casserole.

Serve with garlic bread or crusty rolls to soak up the cheesy goodness.
A chilled glass of sweet tea or lemonade complements the spicy flavors perfectly.
Garnish with extra green onions or fresh herbs for a pop of color.

FAQs about Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole a day in advance. Just assemble it, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, pop it in the oven straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What can I substitute for the cream of chicken soup?
If you prefer a homemade touch, you can make a simple white sauce with butter, flour, and chicken broth. Alternatively, a can of cream of mushroom soup works well for a different flavor profile.

How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. It’s just as delicious the next day!

Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole before baking. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

What sides pair well with this casserole?
This casserole is a meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or some garlic bread. A side of steamed vegetables can also add a nice touch of color and nutrition!

Final Thoughts

Cooking is more than just a task; it’s a way to show love and create memories. My Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole embodies that spirit. It’s a dish that brings everyone together, filling your home with warmth and laughter. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this casserole is sure to impress. The blend of creamy cheese and spicy chicken creates a delightful experience that will have your loved ones coming back for more. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the joy of cooking, and let this casserole become a cherished part of your family meals!