Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Bliss

Name: Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked spaghetti; 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded; 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies; 1 cup cream of chicken soup; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper; Salt and pepper to taste

October 15, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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There’s just something magical about comfort food, don’t you think? Growing up, my family always gathered around the table for hearty dishes that warmed both our bellies and our hearts. One of my absolute favorites has to be this *spicy southern cheesy chicken spaghetti casserole*. It’s the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness with a kick of heat from the cayenne pepper. Trust me, every bite is a delightful explosion of flavors and textures! Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this casserole never fails to impress and satisfy. I can’t wait for you to try it!

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this mouthwatering *spicy southern cheesy chicken spaghetti casserole*. Each ingredient plays a key role in creating that comforting, flavor-packed dish we all crave.

2 cups cooked spaghetti: Use any spaghetti you like! I prefer al dente for that perfect bite.
1 pound cooked chicken, shredded: You can use rotisserie chicken for a super quick option, or simply boil and shred your own.
1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies: This adds a nice kick and a hint of sweetness. Don’t forget to drain them a bit!
1 cup cream of chicken soup: This gives the casserole its creamy texture and richness—it’s a must!
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar works beautifully here, bringing that classic cheesy goodness.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: For that gooey, melty topping that you’ll want to dive into.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: A little bit of garlic goes a long way in flavoring this dish.
1 teaspoon onion powder: This enhances the savory notes and rounds out the flavor profile.
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Adjust this to your spice preference! It’s what gives this dish its southern kick.
Salt and pepper to taste: Always taste as you go, and season to your liking!

Make sure you have everything on hand before you start cooking, so you can dive right into the deliciousness!

How to Prepare the Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this *spicy southern cheesy chicken spaghetti casserole*! Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a comforting dish that’s sure to impress.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is important to ensure even baking.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, shredded chicken, diced tomatoes, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. I love using a spatula for this—it makes it easy to fold everything in without breaking the spaghetti.
Once mixed, transfer the delicious mixture to a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly so every bite gets that cheesy goodness!
Now, it’s time to add the toppings! Generously sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top. Don’t be shy here; we want that ooey-gooey, melty cheese!
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown—just the way we like it!
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help the layers set a bit, making it easier to serve.

And there you go! You’ve just created a mouthwatering *spicy southern cheesy chicken spaghetti casserole*! Enjoy every cheesy, spicy bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s a comforting, one-dish meal that brings the whole family together.
Combines creamy cheese with a spicy kick, making it a flavor explosion!
Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights.
Can be made ahead of time and baked when you’re ready to eat.
Versatile enough to customize with your favorite veggies or proteins.
Leftovers (if there are any!) make for a delicious next-day lunch.
It’s gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy this hearty dish!

Tips for Success

To make sure your *spicy southern cheesy chicken spaghetti casserole* turns out perfectly every time, I’ve got some handy tips and tricks that I’ve learned along the way. Trust me, these little details can make a big difference!

Don’t overcook the spaghetti: Since the spaghetti will continue to cook in the oven, you want it just al dente. Overcooked spaghetti can turn mushy in the casserole, and nobody wants that!
Mix gently: When combining your ingredients, be gentle. You don’t want to break apart the spaghetti too much. A spatula works wonders here!
Adjust the spice: If you’re nervous about the heat, start with less cayenne pepper. You can always add more later if you want that extra kick. Remember, it’s easier to add spice than to take it away!
Grease the baking dish: Make sure to grease your baking dish well to prevent sticking. Nobody wants to lose that cheesy goodness when serving!
Cool before serving: Let the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking. This helps it set and makes serving easier. Plus, it won’t burn your mouth!
Experiment with toppings: Feel free to add your favorite toppings like crushed tortilla chips, green onions, or even jalapeños for an extra crunch and flavor boost!

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making a fantastic casserole that everyone will rave about. Happy cooking!

Variations

One of the best things about this *spicy southern cheesy chicken spaghetti casserole* is how adaptable it is! You can easily switch things up to make it your own, and I absolutely encourage you to get creative!

Veggie Lover’s Delight: Add in some sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for a nutritious boost. They not only add flavor but also a lovely pop of color!
Different Proteins: Feel free to swap out the chicken for cooked sausage, ground beef, or even shrimp! Just adjust your cooking time accordingly to ensure everything is cooked through.
Cheese Lovers: Mix it up with different cheese blends! Try pepper jack for an extra kick, or add cream cheese for a creamier texture. The possibilities are endless!
Spicy Kick: Want more heat? Toss in some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for an extra fiery punch. Just remember to taste as you go!
Italian Twist: For a different flavor profile, use marinara sauce instead of cream of chicken soup and add Italian herbs like basil and oregano. It’s a fun twist that’s just as comforting!

Remember, this casserole is super forgiving, so don’t hesitate to mix and match ingredients based on what you have on hand. The heart of this dish lies in its comforting flavors, and you can make it uniquely yours!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

So, you’ve made this delicious *spicy southern cheesy chicken spaghetti casserole* and now you’ve got some leftovers (if you’re lucky!). Here’s how to store and reheat it so you can enjoy those comforting flavors all over again.

First things first, let the casserole cool completely before storing it. This helps prevent condensation, which can make things soggy. Once it’s cooled, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. You can also cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil if you prefer to keep it all in one place. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

If you want to keep it for even longer, you can freeze the casserole! Just make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for extra protection. This way, it can last for up to 2-3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

To reheat, you have a couple of options. For the best results, pop it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until it’s heated through and bubbly. If you’re in a hurry, you can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. Just be careful, as it can get hot quickly!

And there you have it—easy storage and reheating instructions to savor every cheesy, spicy bite of your casserole! Enjoy!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk about what’s in this delicious *spicy southern cheesy chicken spaghetti casserole*! I always think it’s good to know what you’re eating, especially when it’s this comforting. Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional values for one serving:

Calories: 450
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 30g

These values are estimates based on typical ingredients, so they may vary depending on what you use. But overall, you’re getting a hearty, protein-packed meal that’s sure to fill you up and warm your soul. Enjoy every bite guilt-free!

FAQ Section

Can I use uncooked chicken in this recipe?
I wouldn’t recommend it! Using cooked chicken keeps things simple and ensures everything cooks evenly. You can use rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked chicken for the best results.

How can I make this casserole spicier?
If you’re looking to turn up the heat, you can add more cayenne pepper or toss in some diced jalapeños. Just remember to taste as you go so you can find that perfect level of spice!

Can I make the casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the *spicy southern cheesy chicken spaghetti casserole* ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat!

What can I serve with this casserole?
It pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad, some garlic bread, or even steamed veggies. It’s a complete meal on its own, but these sides make it even more satisfying!

Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes, you can definitely use gluten-free spaghetti! Just make sure to cook it according to the package instructions, as gluten-free pasta can have different cooking times.

How do I know when the casserole is done?
You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top. If you want to be extra sure, use a food thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the leftovers! Just wrap the casserole tightly and store it in the freezer. It’ll keep for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What’s the best way to reheat the casserole?
For the best results, reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until heated through. If you’re in a hurry, microwaving individual portions for 1-2 minutes works too—just be sure to stir halfway through!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.