Irresistible Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole – Cheesy, Bold & Comforting

Looking for a dish that brings bold flavor, gooey cheese, and a little Southern spice to the table? This Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and full of smoky heat. With tender chicken, zesty tomatoes, spicy peppers, and loads of cheese, it’s a hearty one-dish meal that’s perfect for potlucks, holidays, or a no-fuss family dinner.

---

Why You’ll Love This Southern Favorite

Southern casseroles are all about comfort and crowd-pleasing flavor—and this one delivers. Classic chicken spaghetti gets a spicy twist with green chiles, Cajun seasoning, and optional jalapeños, all baked in a creamy, cheesy sauce that clings to every bite of pasta.

It’s:

• Creamy and spicy, but not overwhelming

• Loaded with chicken, peppers, and cheese

• Make-ahead and freezer friendly

• Perfect for using rotisserie or leftover chicken

---

Ingredient Breakdown: Southern Flavor, Spicy Kick

Spaghetti

• Traditional base of this casserole.

• Break noodles in half before cooking to fit better in the baking dish.

Cooked Chicken

• Use shredded rotisserie chicken, or cooked chicken breasts or thighs.

• You’ll need about 3 cups, shredded or chopped.

Diced Tomatoes with Green Chiles (Rotel-style)

• Adds flavor, acidity, and a mild heat.

• Use original, hot, or fire-roasted for more spice.

Cream of Chicken and Cream of Mushroom Soup

• Classic casserole binders.

• Add creaminess and savory depth. You can sub with homemade versions if preferred.

Sour Cream

• Balances the heat and adds tangy creaminess.

Cheddar Cheese & Pepper Jack Cheese

• Cheddar gives the dish a classic, rich flavor.

• Pepper jack adds creaminess and a subtle spice.

• Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt.

Onion & Bell Pepper

• Lightly sautéed for flavor and texture.

• Adds a sweet and savory base.

Cajun or Creole Seasoning

• The flavor punch of the South.

• Choose your preferred heat level—add cayenne or hot sauce for extra kick.

Jalapeños or Hot Sauce (Optional)

• Customize the heat to your preference.

• Pickled jalapeños for tang; fresh for intensity.

---

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Spaghetti

• Boil 12 oz spaghetti in salted water until al dente.

• Drain and set aside (toss with a little oil to prevent sticking).

2. Sauté the Vegetables

• In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp oil.

• Sauté 1 chopped onion and 1 chopped bell pepper until softened (5–6 minutes).

• Optional: Add 1 minced jalapeño for extra heat.

3. Mix the Casserole Filling

In a large bowl, stir together:

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese

• 1 can cream of chicken soup

• 1 can cream of mushroom soup

• 1 cup sour cream

• 1 can (10 oz) Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chiles), drained

• 1 tsp Cajun or Creole seasoning

• Cooked onion and peppers

• 3 cups cooked chicken

• Optional: 1–2 tsp hot sauce or cayenne pepper

Mix well to combine.

4. Add the Spaghetti

• Add the cooked spaghetti to the mixture and toss until evenly coated.

5. Transfer to Baking Dish

• Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.

• Pour in the spaghetti mixture and spread evenly.

• Top with additional cheese (½ cup cheddar or a cheese blend).

6. Bake

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Cover loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes.

• Uncover and bake an additional 10–15 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.

7. Rest & Serve

• Let cool 5–10 minutes before serving.

• Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions, if desired.

---

Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Tips for Best Results:

• Don’t overcook the pasta—it will continue to soften in the oven.

• Shred your own cheese for a creamier melt.

• Taste the filling before baking and adjust seasoning or spice.

Variations:

• Extra Spicy: Add cayenne, red pepper flakes, or diced habaneros.

• Veggie Boost: Stir in spinach, corn, or black beans.

• Mexican Twist: Use taco seasoning and top with crushed tortilla chips before baking.

Substitutions:

• No cream soups? Use 2 cups homemade white sauce (béchamel) or a vegan cream sauce.

• Gluten-free? Use gluten-free pasta and check that your soups are GF-certified.

• Dairy-free? Use dairy-free sour cream, cheese, and creamy soup alternatives.

---

Serving Ideas & When to Make It

This spicy chicken spaghetti casserole is ideal for:

Weeknight Comfort:

• Quick to assemble with rotisserie chicken and pantry staples.

Potlucks & Church Suppers:

• Feeds a crowd and holds up well for transport and reheating.

Holidays & Family Gatherings:

• A spicy, Southern alternative to traditional baked pasta or mac and cheese.

Pair With:

• Collard greens or green beans

• Cornbread or Texas toast

• Crisp side salad with ranch or honey mustard dressing

• Sweet tea or lemonade for balance

---

Nutrition & Health Notes

This dish is rich and indulgent—best served with lighter sides if you’re watching fat or carbs. But it also packs protein and calcium, and you can tweak it to meet your dietary needs.

Approximate Nutrition (per serving, 1/8 of dish):

• Calories: 480–550

• Protein: 28–32g

• Carbs: 35–45g

• Fat: 25–30g

• Fiber: 2–4g

Lighter Options:

• Use low-fat dairy and reduced-sodium soups.

• Add extra veggies and reduce cheese slightly.

• Serve smaller portions with salad or veggies.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temp for 30 minutes, then bake as directed.

2. Can I freeze it?

Absolutely. This casserole freezes well. Freeze unbaked (wrapped tightly) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual. You can also freeze fully baked portions for easy lunches.

3. How spicy is it?

Mild to medium. You control the spice by adjusting jalapeños, hot sauce, and seasoning. For kids or spice-sensitive eaters, use mild Rotel and skip jalapeños.

4. Can I use other pasta?

Yes! Elbow macaroni, penne, or rotini work great. Just avoid super small shapes that may get mushy.

5. Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes—skip the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms, black beans, or a plant-based meat alternative. Use cream of mushroom or vegan soup.

6. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat in the oven at 350°F (covered with foil) for 20–25 minutes, or in the microwave in 1-minute bursts. Add a splash of broth or milk if needed to loosen the sauce.

7. What cheeses work best?

Sharp cheddar is classic, but pepper jack, Colby-Jack, or Monterey Jack are great too. Use what melts well and adds flavor.

Print