Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

If you love bold flavors combined with comforting textures, the Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe is going to become your new favorite dinner. This dish takes tender shredded chicken and perfectly cooked spaghetti, then wraps them in a creamy, spicy sauce that’s loaded with sautéed peppers and onions, and finished off with a golden cheddar cheese crust. It’s every bit as warm and satisfying as a hug from the South, with just the right kick to keep things exciting. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or to impress guests with Southern flair, this casserole brings vibrant color, irresistible flavors, and simple ingredients together in one memorable meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is delightfully straightforward, featuring pantry staples and fresh ingredients that blend effortlessly to create an unforgettable casserole. Each component builds on the next— from the soft cooked spaghetti that soaks up flavor, to the spicy diced tomatoes adding punch, and the cheese that melts to perfection on top. Here’s exactly what you’ll need:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: Using cooked chicken saves time and adds hearty protein to the casserole.
• 12 oz spaghetti, cooked and drained: Make sure to cook until just tender to maintain the perfect texture after baking.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup: Adds creamy richness and a subtle earthiness.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: Provides a smooth, savory base to tie all flavors together.
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies: Brings just enough spice and a burst of color to brighten the dish.
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: The gooey, melty topping everyone craves on a casserole.
• 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers (red or green): Adds freshness, sweetness, and vibrant color.
• 1/2 cup chopped onion: Builds a savory depth when sautéed until soft.
• 1 tsp garlic powder: Enhances flavor with warm, aromatic undertones.
• 1 tsp onion powder: Boosts the onion flavor in a subtle way.
• 1/2 tsp paprika: Adds smoky warmth and splendid color.
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper: Delivers that signature Southern spice kick.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
• 2 tbsp butter: For sautéing vegetables and enriching the casserole.
• Non-stick cooking spray: Keeps your baking dish perfectly greased for easy serving.

How to Make Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, generously coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. This simple preparation sets the stage for your casserole to bake evenly and come out of the dish without a fuss.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Bell Peppers

Next, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and bell peppers, cooking until they become tender and slightly sweet, about 5 minutes. This step is crucial because it softens the vegetables and unlocks their natural flavors, adding a beautiful foundation for the casserole.

Step 3: Combine the Main Ingredients

In a big mixing bowl, blend together the shredded chicken, sautéed onions and peppers, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and the diced tomatoes with green chilies. Then, add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Stir everything thoroughly so that all the spices and creamy soups come together in perfect harmony—it’s the backbone of this Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe.

Step 4: Add the Cooked Spaghetti

Carefully fold the cooked spaghetti into your mixture, ensuring every strand gets coated in that spicy, creamy blend. The trick here is gentle folding—too rough and you’ll mash the noodles, but gentle enough keeps their texture intact while fully infusing flavor.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the full mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Then, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese all over the top—don’t be shy here, as this cheese layer is what gives the dish its irresistible golden crust and gooey finish.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Pop the casserole into your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese turns bubbly and has a light golden-brown hue. This baking time allows the flavors to meld, the sauce to thicken, and the cheese to brown beautifully.

Step 7: Let It Rest

After pulling the casserole from the oven, give it a few minutes to rest. This wait allows the dish to set slightly, making it easier to serve and letting all those delicious flavors settle perfectly.

How to Serve Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

To add an extra pop of color and fresh flavor, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or green onions over the top right before serving. A dollop of sour cream or a few sliced jalapeños also make fantastic garnishes, amplifying the creamy and spicy notes that make this dish so special.

Side Dishes

This casserole stands beautifully on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or some steamed green beans brings a refreshing balance to the richness. Cornbread or fluffy dinner rolls are classic Southern companions that ensure a hearty and well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the casserole in individual ramekins to give everyone their own personal spicy southern feast. You can also add a sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips or panko breadcrumbs on top before baking for an added crispy texture that contrasts deliciously with the creamy base.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Simply cover leftovers with foil or transfer to an airtight container, then refrigerate for up to 3 days. This Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, this casserole freezes wonderfully. Freeze it before baking in a tightly sealed container or wrapped in foil and plastic wrap. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20 minutes. For a quicker option, microwave individual portions but keep an eye out to prevent overcooking, which can dry out the spaghetti.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that adds wonderful flavor and saves time without compromising the taste or texture of the casserole.

How spicy is this Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe?

The recipe has a balanced heat level thanks to the cayenne pepper and diced tomatoes with green chilies. You can adjust the spice by adding more or less cayenne or choosing mild diced tomatoes if you prefer less heat.

Can I substitute the cream of mushroom and cream of chicken soups?

Yes, if you prefer a homemade sauce or different flavors, you can substitute these soups with a homemade creamy sauce or good quality alternatives, but the soups add a traditional Southern creaminess that is hard to beat.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not as written, since it uses regular spaghetti and canned soups which usually contain gluten. You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and checking labels on the canned soups or making your own gluten-free sauce.

What’s the best way to make this dish vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, swap chicken for sautéed mushrooms or plant-based chicken alternatives and use vegetable cream soups. This will keep the hearty feel while respecting vegetarian preferences.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly comforting and exciting about the Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe that invites you to gather around the table and savor every bite. With its creamy texture, vibrant colors, and spicy Southern charm, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that will quickly become a staple in your home kitchen. Give it a try and watch how it brings warmth and joy to any meal occasion.

Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4 from 55 reviews

• Author: admin
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

A hearty and flavorful Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole featuring tender shredded chicken, sautéed bell peppers and onions, creamy soups, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and a blend of spices baked to bubbly perfection with melted cheddar cheese on top.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken and Pasta

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 12 oz spaghetti, cooked and drained

Vegetables

• 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers (red or green)
• 1/2 cup chopped onion

Soup 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

• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Spices & Seasoning

• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper to taste

Other

• 2 tbsp butter
• Non-stick cooking spray

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and set it aside for later use.
2. Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onions and bell peppers, and sauté until they become tender and fragrant, which takes about 5 minutes. This brings out their sweetness and softens them for the casserole.
3. Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shredded 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, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything well until the mixture is evenly combined and creamy.
4. Add Spaghetti: Gently fold the cooked and drained spaghetti into the mixture, making sure the pasta is well coated with the saucy chicken and vegetable mixture but not breaking the noodles.
5. Assemble Casserole: Transfer the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly across the top to create a cheesy crust during baking.
6. Bake: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Bake until the cheese topping is bubbly, melted, and lightly golden brown, signaling the casserole is heated through and ready to serve.
7. Rest and Serve: Carefully remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes. This helps the casserole set slightly for easier serving and enhances the flavor melding before enjoying.

Notes

• You can substitute cooked rotisserie chicken for convenience.
• Adjust cayenne pepper to your spice tolerance for milder or spicier tastes.
• For a creamier texture, add a splash of milk or cream to the mixture before baking.
• Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated well.
• Feel free to add a topping of crushed crackers or breadcrumbs mixed with butter for extra crunch before baking.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Southern American