This Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish with a kick of spice that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Packed with tender chicken, a creamy cheese sauce, and just the right amount of heat, this casserole is easy to make and impossible to resist. It’s a true Southern classic that’s sure to become a regular on your menu!

Necessary Kitchen Equipment

Large pot
Mixing bowl
9×13-inch baking dish
Skillet (optional, for cooking chicken)
Wooden spoon or spatula

Ingredients

8 ounces spaghetti, cooked and drained
3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of chicken soup
1 (10-ounce) can Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
1 cup sour cream
1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (optional, for topping)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.

Cook the Spaghetti: Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Make the Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, Rotel, sour cream, 1 cup cheddar cheese, pepper jack cheese, and spices (garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper). Stir until smooth.

Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked spaghetti and shredded chicken to the sauce mixture. Stir well to coat everything evenly.

Assemble the Casserole: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top.

Optional Topping: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with the crushed Ritz crackers and sprinkle the mixture over the cheese layer.

Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the topping is golden brown.

Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and enjoy!

Recipe Tips

Rotisserie Chicken Shortcut: Save time by using a store-bought rotisserie chicken.
Adjust Spice Level: Use mild Rotel if you prefer less heat, or add extra cayenne for more spice.
Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.

What to Serve with Spicy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Green Salad: A crisp side salad helps balance the richness of the casserole.
Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the cheesy sauce.
Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or green beans make a great complement.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I freeze this casserole? Yes! Assemble it, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

2. Can I substitute the cheese? Feel free to use Colby Jack or mozzarella instead of pepper jack for a milder flavor.

3. Can I make this gluten-free? Use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free crackers for the topping.

Enjoy this Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole, a dish that’s as bold as it is delicious!