Name: Comforting and Spicy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole for Easy Southern Dinners
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 12 oz (340g) spaghetti noodles; 2 cups cooked shredded chicken; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup; 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chiles (like Rotel); 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat); Salt and black pepper to taste; Optional garnish: chopped parsley or sliced green onions

Comforting and Spicy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole for Easy Southern Dinners

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and spicy. It combines tender spaghetti, juicy shredded chicken, and a rich sauce made with cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and cheese, creating a satisfying, flavorful dish. The addition of diced tomatoes with green chiles and optional cayenne pepper gives it just the right amount of heat, while the gooey melted cheese on top adds the finishing touch. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, potluck, or meal prep, this dish is sure to become a new favorite!

Ingredients

12 oz (340g) spaghetti noodles
2 cups cooked shredded chicken
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chiles (like Rotel)
1/2 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional garnish: chopped parsley or sliced green onions

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook Spaghetti: Cook the spaghetti noodles according to package directions, then drain.
Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, diced tomatoes with green chiles, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), and half of both the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
Add Pasta: Add the cooked spaghetti to the mixture and stir until evenly coated.
Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top of the casserole.
Bake: Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown on top.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley or sliced green onions and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6–8 servings

Variations

Extra Spice: Add jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or more cayenne pepper for an extra spicy kick.
Cheese Choices: Swap the cheddar and mozzarella for other cheeses like pepper jack, gouda, or a blend of Mexican cheeses for a different flavor.
Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and add extra vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for a vegetarian take on the casserole.
Creamy Version: Add a bit more sour cream or even some cream cheese for an even creamier texture.

Storage/Reheating

This casserole stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. After baking, let the casserole cool slightly, then cover and refrigerate. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating.

This casserole also freezes well! If you want to make it ahead of time, assemble the casserole (without baking), cover it tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. To bake from frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake according to the original instructions.

FAQs

Can I use leftover chicken?

Yes, this casserole is a great way to use up leftover chicken. Just shred it and add it to the mixture as instructed.

What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?

If you don’t have cream of chicken soup, you can use cream of mushroom soup or make a homemade creamy base using milk, flour, and chicken broth.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. It also freezes well, so you can prep it in advance and bake it later.

Can I make this dish spicier?

Absolutely! Add more cayenne pepper, diced jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce to make the dish as spicy as you like.

How can I make this dish less spicy?

If you prefer less heat, simply skip the cayenne pepper and use a mild version of the diced tomatoes with green chiles.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! While spaghetti works great, you can also use other types of pasta like penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni for a fun twist on the classic.

Can I make this casserole dairy-free?

To make this casserole dairy-free, use dairy-free cheese and sour cream substitutes, such as coconut cream or cashew cream for the creamy texture.

Conclusion

This Spicy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is the perfect Southern-inspired dinner that’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with bold flavors. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a great option for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even feeding a crowd. The added kick from the diced tomatoes with green chiles and cayenne pepper gives it just the right amount of heat, while the gooey cheese on top makes every bite irresistible. Serve it with a side salad or some cornbread for the ultimate comforting meal.