Irresistible Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

If you’re craving the ultimate Southern comfort food with a bold kick of spice, this Irresistible Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is going to hit all the right notes. It’s creamy, cheesy, perfectly seasoned, and layered with tender chicken, spaghetti, and rich Southern-inspired flavors.

This isn’t just any casserole — it’s a one-pan wonder that delivers on both flavor and convenience. The combination of juicy chicken, spicy Rotel tomatoes, creamy sauce, and plenty of melted cheese makes every bite unforgettable.

What’s great is how versatile this dish is. You can make it mild or fiery depending on your spice preference, and it’s an excellent way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep — bake it ahead, refrigerate or freeze, and reheat when you need a comforting, ready-to-go dinner.

Pair it with a crisp green salad, cornbread, or roasted vegetables, and you’ve got a hearty Southern-inspired feast that your family will ask for again and again.

If you love creamy, cheesy casseroles that bring together a little spice, Southern charm, and ultimate comfort, this recipe is going to become a staple in your kitchen.

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What Makes This Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Special?

• Packed with Flavor – Layers of creamy sauce, spicy Rotel, and juicy chicken.

• Cheesy Goodness – Uses a blend of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and cream cheese for extra richness.

• Customizable Heat – Adjust spice levels to match your taste.

• Perfect Make-Ahead Meal – Freezer-friendly and reheats beautifully.

• Crowd-Pleaser – Ideal for potlucks, family dinners, or busy weeknights.

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Ingredient Notes

• Spaghetti (12 oz)
  Classic pasta base that holds up well in the casserole. You can swap with linguine or angel hair.

• Cooked Chicken (3 cups, shredded)
  Rotisserie chicken works great, but you can use poached or baked chicken.

• Rotel Tomatoes (1 can, with green chilies)
  Brings that Southern-style spicy kick. Use mild or hot depending on preference.

• Cream of Chicken Soup (1 can)
  Adds creaminess and binds the sauce together.

• Cream Cheese (4 oz)
  Gives the sauce a rich, velvety texture.

• Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, shredded)
  Sharp cheddar adds tang and depth.

• Monterey Jack Cheese (1 cup, shredded)
  Melts beautifully for that gooey pull.

• Chicken Broth (1 cup)
  Helps create a luscious, creamy sauce.

• Spices & Seasonings
  Use paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper for flavor balance.

• Fresh Parsley or Green Onions
  Optional garnish for freshness and color.

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How to Make Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Step 1 — Cook the Pasta

• Boil 12 oz spaghetti in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2 — Prepare the Sauce

• In a large skillet, combine cream of chicken soup, cream cheese, Rotel, and chicken broth.

• Stir over medium heat until smooth and creamy, about 5 minutes.

Step 3 — Season and Add Chicken

• Add shredded chicken to the sauce and stir well.

• Mix in paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. Adjust heat level to taste.

Step 4 — Combine Pasta and Sauce

• Toss the cooked spaghetti into the sauce mixture until fully coated.

Step 5 — Assemble the Casserole

• Transfer everything into a 9×13 baking dish.

• Top with cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.

Step 6 — Bake

• Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 7 — Serve

• Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions.

• Serve hot with garlic bread or a fresh side salad.

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Storage Options

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

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

• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm, or microwave individual portions.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Milder Version – Use plain diced tomatoes instead of Rotel and skip cayenne.

• Extra Spicy – Add diced jalapeños or use pepper jack cheese.

• Low-Carb Option – Swap spaghetti for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.

• Creamier Twist – Stir in ½ cup sour cream for a richer sauce.

• Tex-Mex Style – Add black beans, corn, and taco seasoning for a Mexican-inspired spin.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes, linguine, fettuccine, or penne all work well.

2. Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

3. How do I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and a certified gluten-free cream of chicken soup.

4. Can I use a different cheese blend?
Yes! Pepper jack, mozzarella, or Colby jack work beautifully.

5. How do I keep the casserole from drying out?
Make sure not to overbake and add a splash of chicken broth if reheating leftovers.

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