Name: Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Delight Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked spaghetti; 2 cups shredded cooked chicken; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup cream of chicken soup; 1 cup diced tomatoes with green chilies; 1 tablespoon hot sauce; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 cup chopped green onions; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

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The Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Delight is a hearty, flavorful dish that perfectly balances creamy, cheesy goodness with a kick of Southern-inspired spice. This casserole brings together tender shredded chicken, tender spaghetti, and a gooey blend of cheddar cheese and cream of chicken soup, all lifted by zesty diced tomatoes with green chilies and just the right amount of hot sauce. It’s comfort food elevated to a savory celebration of textures and tastes, making it an absolute crowd-pleaser for weeknights, potlucks, or any time you want a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Delight Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, well-chosen ingredients is the key to creating the Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Delight. Each element adds something special, whether it’s creaminess, spice, or a crispy topping that brings everything together.

2 cups cooked spaghetti: Make sure it’s al dente to hold texture after baking.
2 cups shredded cooked chicken: Use rotisserie for quick prep and added flavor.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a rich, tangy bite.
1 cup cream of chicken soup: Adds creamy moisture and depth.
1 cup diced tomatoes with green chilies: Provides a zesty, spicy freshness.
1 tablespoon hot sauce: Adjust to your heat preference for that spicy Southern kick.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses savory warmth throughout the casserole.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the flavor with subtle sweetness.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances and brightens all the flavors.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds mild heat and depth.
1/4 cup chopped green onions: A fresh, crunchy contrast for the topping.
1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Creates a perfectly crispy crust after baking.

How to Make Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Delight

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your casserole will bake evenly, developing that bubbly, golden top we’re all craving.

Step 2: Mix the Main Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, shredded chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, diced tomatoes with green chilies, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until every strand of pasta and shred of chicken is coated in that irresistible cheesy, spicy sauce.

Step 3: Transfer to Baking Dish

Grease your favorite casserole dish lightly, then transfer the hearty mixture into it. Spread evenly to help it bake uniformly.

Step 4: Top with Green Onions and Breadcrumbs

Sprinkle the chopped green onions over the top for a burst of freshness and color. Follow this with an even layer of breadcrumbs to achieve the delightful crispy crust that sets this casserole apart.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Watch for bubbling edges and a golden breadcrumb topping—those are your signs the dish is ready.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps it set slightly, making it easier to portion out and enjoy every gooey, spicy bite of your Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Delight.

How to Serve Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Delight

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or extra green onions gives a lovely pop of color and fresh flavor contrast to the richness of the casserole. If you like some added creaminess, a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of ranch dressing works beautifully with the spicy notes.

Side Dishes

Since the Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Delight is quite rich and filling, pair it with light and crisp sides like a simple mixed green salad or roasted vegetables. Cornbread or a warm baguette also complements the flavors perfectly and adds a comforting Southern touch.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress at a gathering, serve the casserole in individual ramekins topped with a small sprinkle of extra cheddar and a few jalapeño slices for added flair. You could even convert leftovers into casserole-stuffed bell peppers for a fun twist on presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Delight in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners during the week.

Freezing

This casserole freezes well! Simply assemble it in a freezer-safe dish but don’t bake. Wrap tightly with foil and plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes, to keep that crispy breadcrumb topping intact. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, but the texture may be softer.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta instead of spaghetti?

Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional here, you can substitute with penne, rotini, or any pasta shape you like. Just make sure it’s cooked al dente to prevent mushiness after baking.

How spicy is the Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Delight?

The spice level is moderate and can be adjusted to your taste by varying the amount of hot sauce or choosing milder diced tomatoes. It delivers a pleasant heat that complements the creamy cheese without overwhelming.

Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the chicken for your favorite plant-based protein or load in extra vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers for a delicious vegetarian twist.

Is this dish suitable for meal prepping?

Definitely. This casserole makes great leftovers and the flavors even deepen after a day or two, so it’s ideal for meal prepping lunches or dinners for busy weeks.

What type of cheese works best in this casserole?

Sharp cheddar is the best choice here due to its bold flavor and melting qualities, but feel free to blend in some Monterey Jack or pepper jack for extra creaminess and a little more kick.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dish bursting with bold flavors and comforting textures, you absolutely have to try the Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Delight. It’s simple to make yet impressively satisfying, and every bite tells a story of Southern hospitality with a cheesy, spicy twist. Trust me, once you make it, this casserole will become one of your go-to favorites you can’t stop sharing.

Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Delight Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 19 reviews

Author: Naomi
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Low Salt

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Description

This Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Delight combines tender cooked spaghetti and shredded chicken with a zesty blend of cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Infused with bold Southern flavors from hot sauce, garlic, and onion powder, this casserole is topped with green onions and crispy breadcrumbs for a satisfying, comforting dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole evenly.
Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, diced tomatoes with green chilies, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Transfer mixture to baking dish: Grease a baking dish thoroughly, then pour the mixed casserole ingredients into it, spreading evenly.
Add toppings: Sprinkle the chopped green onions and breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the casserole to add freshness and a crunchy texture.
Bake the casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and bubbly.
Cool and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and prevent burns.

Notes

Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and flavorful option.
Adjust the amount of hot sauce according to your spice preference.
For a crunchier topping, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
This dish can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated; bake just before serving.
Substitute cream of chicken soup with a homemade white sauce for a fresher taste or to control sodium.

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