Irresistible Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Name: Irresistible Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked spaghetti; 1 lb cooked chicken, shredded; 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded cheese; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Experience a delightful blend of Southern comfort and spicy goodness with this Irresistible Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole. This hearty dish combines tender chicken, zesty seasonings, and creamy spaghetti in one baking dish, delivering layers of flavor that will warm your heart. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this casserole is sure to become a favorite for its bold taste and satisfying texture.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2025-11-12T03:25:54.754Z

This casserole combines flavors from the South with a spicy twist, making it a standout dish for any gathering.

Hearty Comfort Food with a Twist

The Irresistible Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is more than just another casserole; it's a celebration of flavors and textures that defines comfort food. Traditional spaghetti gets a Southern makeover with the addition of shredded chicken and zesty tomatoes, creating a dish that's both satisfying and exciting. This recipe elevates standard weeknight meals to something remarkable, ensuring that each bite bursts with warmth and depth.

With each serving, you'll experience the perfect balance of creamy sauce and hearty ingredients, making it a delightful change from typical pasta dishes. Whether comforting a loved one or simply indulging in a personal treat, this casserole provides both nourishment and a sense of home.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This casserole is incredibly versatile, making it ideal for family dinners, gatherings, or potlucks. Its appealing flavors and inviting aroma will surely impress your guests and become a conversation starter at any table. Plus, it can easily feed a crowd, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of friends and family.

Leftovers, if you have any, store well in the refrigerator and can be easily reheated, ensuring you can savor this delicious dish for days to come. This practicality adds to its charm as a go-to recipe for busy weekdays or special occasions, proving that delicious, homemade meals can't be effortless.

Adaptable and Customizable

One of the best features of this casserole is its adaptability. Feel free to experiment with your favorite spices or add in seasonal vegetables for an extra nutritional boost. Bell peppers, spinach, or corn can be added to enhance both the flavor and visual appeal of your dish. Additionally, you can substitute the chicken with shredded turkey or a plant-based protein for a different twist.

This flexibility ensures that you can tailor the recipe to your preferences or dietary restrictions, making it a beloved staple suitable for everyone. Your creativity can shine through each time you make this casserole, offering endless possibilities for variation while still delivering a comforting, familiar dish.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 cups cooked spaghetti
1 lb cooked chicken, shredded
1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Ensure all ingredients are prepped before starting the cooking process.

Steps to Prepare

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare the Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, shredded chicken, diced tomatoes, heavy cream, and seasonings. Mix well.

Add Cheese

Fold in half of the shredded cheese into the mixture.

Bake the Casserole

Pour the mixture into a baking dish and top with the remaining cheese. Bake for 30-35 minutes.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Enjoy your delicious casserole with a fresh salad.

Tips for Success

To ensure your Irresistible Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole comes out perfect every time, opt for high-quality ingredients. Fresh chicken, ripe tomatoes, and rich cream will all elevate the dish. Additionally, be mindful of the cooking time; overbaking can result in dry edges while underbaking may lead to a soupy consistency. Keep an eye on it as it bakes to achieve that golden-brown cheese topping.

If you're preparing this dish ahead of time, consider assembling the casserole without baking it first, then cover it and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for a deliciously warm meal.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad for a light yet satisfying meal. A crisp Caesar salad, drizzled with a homemade dressing, complements the rich flavors of the casserole, offering a refreshing contrast. Additionally, serving it with homemade garlic bread can turn your dinner into a feast, perfect for the entire family.

For a casual gathering, consider setting up a toppings bar where guests can add their favorite extras, such as jalapeños, hot sauce, or even crispy bacon bits. This interactive element invites everyone to customize their meal, enhancing the enjoyment of sharing this delightful dish.

Storing and Reheating

When it comes to storing leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. This casserole can typically last for about three to four days in the fridge, making it an excellent meal prep option for busy weeks. When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply reheat them in the oven or microwave until heated through, ensuring you retain the creamy goodness that makes it so delectable.

If you want to freeze the casserole, it’s best to do so before baking. Assemble the casserole, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When the craving hits, defrost it in the fridge overnight and bake it at your convenience for a comforting meal at any time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance and refrigerate it before baking.

→ Can I substitute the chicken?

Absolutely! You can use turkey or even a plant-based protein.