Introduction
If you are looking for a warm, comforting, and flavorful dish that will please the whole family, then Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is the perfect recipe for you. This casserole is a Southern classic that combines tender chicken, spicy flavors, creamy cheese, and spaghetti noodles baked into one delicious dish.
It’s cheesy, it’s filling, and it has just the right kick of spice to keep things exciting. The best part? It’s super easy to make! Even if you’re new to cooking, you’ll find this recipe simple to follow. It’s great for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or when you just want some good old comfort food on your table.
Ingredients – Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Before we start cooking, let’s get all the ingredients ready.
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
- 12 ounces (about 1 box) spaghetti noodles
- 1 can (10 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies (for spice)
- 1 cup chicken broth (can use from boiled chicken)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- 1 medium green bell pepper (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for more spice)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Step by Step Process – Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Let’s walk through the cooking process step by step.
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
- Fill a large pot with water, add some salt, and bring it to a boil.
- Add the spaghetti noodles and cook according to package directions until al dente (slightly firm).
- Drain the noodles and set them aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
- If you haven’t cooked your chicken yet, you can boil or bake it.
- Shred or cube the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter.
- Add chopped onion, green bell pepper, and garlic.
- Cook until soft and fragrant (about 4–5 minutes).
Step 4: Mix the Sauces
- In the same skillet, add the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, Rotel tomatoes, and chicken broth.
- Stir well to combine into a creamy, slightly spicy sauce.
Step 5: Add the Seasonings
- Mix in the salt, black pepper, paprika, chili powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings as needed.
Step 6: Combine Everything
- In a large mixing bowl (or directly in the skillet if it’s big enough), add the cooked spaghetti, shredded chicken, sautéed veggies, and sauce.
- Stir until everything is well coated.
Step 7: Add the Cheese
- Stir in 1 cup of cheddar cheese and ½ cup of mozzarella cheese into the mixture.
- This makes the casserole extra cheesy inside.
Step 8: Bake the Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a large baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Pour the spaghetti mixture into the dish and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top (the rest of the cheddar and mozzarella).
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden on top.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
- Slice into portions and serve warm.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Protein | 26 g |
| Carbohydrates | 32 g |
| Fat | 19 g |
| Saturated Fat | 9 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Sodium | 870 mg |
| Calcium | 180 mg |
| Iron | 2.2 mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it with foil, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as usual.
Q2: Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely. Wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake until heated through.
Q3: Can I make it less spicy?
Of course! If you don’t like too much spice, use plain diced tomatoes instead of Rotel, and skip the cayenne pepper.
Q4: What other cheeses can I use?
Cheddar and mozzarella are classic, but you can try Monterey Jack, Colby, or Pepper Jack for extra flavor.
Q5: What can I serve with this casserole?
This dish is filling on its own, but it pairs well with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.
Final Thoughts
The Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is more than just a recipe—it’s comfort food at its best. With tender chicken, cheesy goodness, and just the right amount of spice, it’s a dish that brings people together around the table.
It’s simple enough for busy weeknights but tasty enough for family gatherings or special occasions. Plus, it’s flexible—you can adjust the spice, switch up the cheeses, or even add extra veggies to make it your own.
So the next time you’re craving a warm, hearty, and flavorful meal, give this casserole a try. Chances are, it will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen!
