Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is the kind of dish that wraps you in a cozy blanket of flavor, blending tender strands of pasta with juicy chicken, creamy sauces, and a kick of Southern heat. It’s the sort of recipe you turn to when you crave something hearty and comforting, but still want a little excitement on your plate. With every bite, you’ll encounter melty cheddar cheese weaving through juicy bites of chicken and roasted bell pepper, while diced tomatoes with green chilies lend a zesty brightness that cuts through the richness. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a laid-back Sunday gathering, this casserole brings the perfect balance of spice and comfort.
This dish is designed for cooks of all levels—total beginners will find the steps straightforward, and seasoned home chefs will appreciate the room to customize spices or swap in turkey for chicken. In just about 20 minutes of prep and roughly 35 minutes of baking (plus a short 10-minute rest), you’ll serve up a golden, bubbling masterpiece that clocks in around 450 calories per serving. It’s a complete dinner in a single 9×13 casserole dish, which means fewer pots to wash and more time to savor the moment with family and friends. So grab your apron, preheat that oven, and let’s dive into the layers of flavor that make this casserole a true Southern-inspired delight!
KEY INGREDIENTS IN SPICY SOUTHERN CHICKEN SPAGHETTI CASSEROLE
Every great recipe starts with the right ingredients, and this casserole is no exception. Each element plays its part in creating a symphony of taste—from creamy textures to spicy undertones and cheesy goodness. Here’s a closer look at the stars of this show:
- Spaghetti
Provides the comforting noodle base, soaking up sauces and spices while remaining tender but firm.
- Cooked, shredded chicken
Brings protein and meaty texture, making the casserole hearty enough for a full meal.
- Cream of chicken soup
Adds rich creaminess and a subtle chicken flavor that binds the ingredients together.
- Cream of mushroom soup
Contributes earthy depth and extra thickness to the sauce.
- Shredded cheddar cheese
Melts into gooey pockets of savory goodness; one portion in the mix, another as a golden topping.
- Onion
Offers sweet and pungent aromatics that become mellow and savory when sautéed.
- Bell pepper
Delivers a crisp, slightly sweet counterpoint and vibrant color.
- Diced tomatoes with green chilies
Infuse the casserole with a tangy kick and moderate heat.
- Chicken broth
Thins out the soups to create a saucy consistency without watering down flavor.
- Garlic powder
Intensifies garlic flavor without the risk of burning fresh garlic.
- Onion powder
Boosts onion notes and layers additional savory complexity.
- Cajun seasoning
Introduces Southern spice blend for that signature kick.
- Paprika
Adds a smoky warmth and enhances color.
- Salt and pepper
Balances and brightens every element, enhancing both heat and sweetness.
- Olive oil
Provides a smooth, fruity base for sautéing aromatics.
HOW TO MAKE SPICY SOUTHERN CHICKEN SPAGHETTI CASSEROLE
Ready to roll up your sleeves and bake something incredible? Follow these steps to transform simple ingredients into a bubbling, golden casserole that’s bursting with Southern-inspired flavor and just the right amount of spicy heat.
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Make sure the rack is positioned in the center for even baking and allow the heat to stabilize before you pop in the casserole.
2. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, so it holds its shape under rich sauce. Drain thoroughly and set aside to cool slightly.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in the olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion and bell pepper, stirring frequently until they’re soft and translucent—about 5–7 minutes. This builds a fragrant flavor base.
4. In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, one cup of cheddar cheese, sautéed vegetables, diced tomatoes with green chilies, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with a sturdy spoon or spatula until every strand of pasta is coated in that creamy, spiced sauce.
5. Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, using a spatula to spread it out evenly so the casserole bakes uniformly.
6. Sprinkle the remaining cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top, ensuring a generous, even layer.
7. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. This traps steam and warms everything through.
8. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown around the edges.
9. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This short rest helps the sauce set and makes portions neater when you scoop.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR SPICY SOUTHERN CHICKEN SPAGHETTI CASSEROLE
Bringing this casserole to the table is only half the fun; how you serve it can elevate the experience even more. Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner or sharing a potluck with friends, thoughtful accompaniments will complement the creamy, spicy flavors and round out the meal. Here are four delicious ways to plate and enjoy your Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole:
- Serve with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette. The fresh, acidic bite of mixed greens, sliced cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes helps cut through the richness of the casserole, balancing flavors in each forkful.
- Offer slices of garlic bread brushed with herb-infused butter. Toasted until golden and fragrant, these buttery loaf slices are perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce on the plate.
- Provide a side of creamy ranch dip or a drizzle of hot sauce. Ranch’s cool creaminess tames the heat, while extra hot sauce kicks up the spice for those who crave more fire.
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley and a few lime wedges. The herbs add a bright, herbal note, and a squeeze of lime juice livens every bite with zesty freshness.
HOW TO STORE SPICY SOUTHERN CHICKEN SPAGHETTI CASSEROLE
This casserole is actually even better the next day, making it a perfect candidate for meal prep or leftovers that won’t disappoint. Proper storage ensures you maintain that creamy texture and bold flavor, so your midweek dinners feel just as special as the day you baked it. Follow these tips to lock in freshness and keep your casserole tasting its best:
- Refrigerate in an airtight container within two hours of baking. Cutting down on air exposure prevents the sauce from thickening too much and keeps veggies crisp.
- Freeze individual portions by scooping servings into freezer-safe zip-top bags or containers. Flatten the bags for quick thawing later and label them with the date. They’ll keep well for up to three months.
- When reheating, thaw overnight in the fridge (if frozen), then warm in the oven at 325°F (160°C) or microwave on medium power until heated through, stirring halfway. This helps preserve creamy consistency without overcooking the pasta.
- If packing lunches, include a small container of extra sauce or a sprinkle of fresh cheese to revive some of the melty, gooey texture when reheating at work or school.
CONCLUSION
Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a true testament to how simple pantry staples and everyday ingredients can transform into a dish that’s comforting, flavorful, and just a little bit spicy. From the tender chicken and al dente spaghetti to the creamy blend of soups and the kick of Cajun seasoning, every component plays a role in creating a meal that’s both homey and bold. Whether you’re a beginner cook trying your hand at a hassle-free dinner or a seasoned home chef looking for a crowd-pleasing casserole, this recipe delivers taste, texture, and warmth in every bite. Don’t forget that with only 20 minutes of prep and about 35 minutes in the oven, plus a short rest, you’ll have a gorgeous, bubbling casserole ready to go for under 70 minutes total.
Feel free to print this article and save it for later, whether you’re jotting down notes in your recipe binder or bookmarking it on your device. You’ll also find an FAQ section below to help troubleshoot any questions or give you tips on customization. If you try this Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment, share your favorite tweaks, or ask any questions if you need a hand with the spices, storage tips, or anything in between. Happy cooking!
Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Description
Savor the warmth of tender chicken, zesty tomatoes, and creamy cheese in this hearty casserole. Perfectly seasoned and easy to prepare, it's a family favorite!
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the chopped onion and bell pepper until they are soft and translucent.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, one cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, sautéed onion and bell pepper, diced tomatoes with green chilies, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
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Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
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Sprinkle the remaining cup of cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
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Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
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After 20 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
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Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
Note
- This casserole is great for meal prepping and can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge.
- Try using different types of cheese for a more complex flavor profile.
- For added spice, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the mixture.
- This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- You can substitute the chicken with turkey for a different twist.
