Irresistible Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

When it comes to ultimate comfort food, nothing beats a spicy Southern cheesy chicken spaghetti casserole. Imagine tender shredded chicken coated in a creamy, cheesy sauce, tossed with perfectly cooked spaghetti, and baked until bubbly and golden on top. This dish combines the soul-warming flavors of Southern comfort with just the right kick of spice to keep things exciting.

I grew up on classic Southern casseroles, and this one has always been a crowd-pleaser at family gatherings, potlucks, and busy weeknight dinners. What makes it extra special is how easy it is to put together despite tasting like something straight from Grandma’s kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting a casual dinner, or stocking your freezer with ready-to-bake meals, this recipe delivers every time.

The secret to its irresistible flavor lies in the creamy cheese blend, spicy seasonings, and a rich sauce that clings perfectly to each strand of spaghetti. Plus, it’s highly customizable—you can adjust the spice, swap cheeses, or sneak in extra veggies for a hearty, wholesome twist.

Ready to make a casserole that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds? Let’s dive into this Irresistible Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole—it’s guaranteed to become a family favorite.

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What Makes This Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Special?

• Rich and Creamy Sauce – A luscious blend of cheddar, cream cheese, and cream of chicken soup gives every bite a melt-in-your-mouth texture.

• Perfectly Balanced Spice – Just enough heat from Rotel tomatoes and Cajun seasoning to make it bold but not overwhelming.

• Family-Friendly and Freezer-Friendly – Ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or freezing for later.

• Customizable Ingredients – Easily tweak the spice level, cheese types, or even swap chicken for turkey or shrimp.

• Simple, Foolproof Method – No complicated steps, and you’ll have dinner ready in under an hour.

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Ingredient Notes

Here’s what you’ll need to make this casserole a success:

• Spaghetti (12 oz) – Cooked al dente so it doesn’t turn mushy when baked.

• Shredded Chicken (3 cups) – Rotisserie chicken works perfectly for convenience, but you can also boil or bake chicken breasts.

• Cheddar Cheese (2 cups) – Sharp cheddar gives a bold, tangy flavor; substitute with Colby Jack or Monterey Jack if you like it milder.

• Cream Cheese (4 oz) – Makes the sauce smooth and creamy.

• Rotel Tomatoes (1 can, 10 oz) – Adds spice and tang; substitute with fire-roasted diced tomatoes for less heat.

• Cream of Chicken Soup (1 can, 10.5 oz) – Creates a creamy base; substitute with cream of mushroom if you prefer.

• Cajun Seasoning (1 tsp) – Brings Southern spice; reduce to ½ tsp for a mild version.

• Onion & Bell Pepper (1 cup each, diced) – Adds freshness and crunch; feel free to use frozen for convenience.

• Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Always better fresh, but powdered works in a pinch.

• Butter (2 tbsp) – For sautéing veggies and adding richness.

Optional add-ins: diced jalapeños, chopped bacon, or extra veggies like mushrooms or zucchini.

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How To Make Irresistible Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

1. Preheat the Oven
   Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when you are.

2. Cook the Spaghetti
   Boil spaghetti in salted water until just al dente (about 8 minutes). Drain well and set aside.

3. Make the Creamy Sauce

   • In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat.

   • Sauté diced onions and bell peppers for about 4 minutes until softened.

   • Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

   • Stir in cream of chicken soup, Rotel tomatoes, and cream cheese. Cook until smooth and bubbly.

4. Add Seasoning and Chicken
   Mix in Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Fold in the shredded chicken and 1 cup of cheddar cheese until everything is coated.

5. Assemble the Casserole

   • Combine the cooked spaghetti with the sauce mixture.

   • Transfer everything into a 9×13-inch baking dish.

   • Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly on top.

6. Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
   Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted and slightly browned.

7. Rest and Serve
   Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to help it set. Garnish with parsley or green onions for a fresh pop of color.

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Storage Options

• Room Temperature: Keep leftovers out for no more than 2 hours.

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freezing: Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months.

• Reheating: Bake at 325°F (165°C) for 20 minutes or microwave individual portions until hot.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Extra Spicy Version – Add diced jalapeños or swap regular Rotel for the hot variety.

• Lighter Version – Use low-fat cream cheese, reduced-fat cheddar, and whole-wheat pasta.

• Seafood Twist – Replace chicken with cooked shrimp or crab meat for a coastal Southern vibe.

• Veggie-Packed – Add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for more nutrients.

• Tex-Mex Style – Sprinkle crushed tortilla chips on top before baking for added crunch.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

2. Can I use a different pasta shape?
Absolutely! Penne, rotini, or linguine work just as well—just avoid very small pasta shapes.

3. What if I don’t like spicy food?
Use mild Rotel tomatoes and skip the Cajun seasoning for a more kid-friendly version.

4. How can I make this gluten-free?
Swap the spaghetti with gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free cream of chicken soup.

5. Can I double this recipe for a crowd?
Yes! Use two 9×13-inch pans and bake them side by side.

6. How do I keep the spaghetti from drying out?
Make sure your sauce is creamy before baking and don’t overcook in the oven.

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