Spicy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

The smell of simmering tomatoes, garlic, and a little kick of spice… that’s the smell of home in my Texas kitchen. I can almost guarantee that my kids, bless their hearts, will actually eat supper tonight if I make my Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole. It’s a comforting hug in a dish, and something I’ve perfected over the years, tweaking it to be just right for my family. I promise you, this casserole will become a family favorite in your home too a delicious, crowd-pleasing meal that’s both easy to make and a guaranteed hit!

Why This Recipe Works

As a busy mom, I need recipes that are quick, easy, and loved by everyone around the table. This chicken spaghetti casserole checks all those boxes! It’s great because:

• It’s a fantastic way to use leftover cooked chicken, making it a weeknight lifesaver.
• The creamy, cheesy sauce with a touch of spice is totally kid-approved (and adult-approved too!).
• You can easily prep it ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready to eat, making it perfect for busy weeknights. I’ve even assembled it the morning of and it was still as delicious when we ate that evening.

Ingredients

• 1 pound spaghetti
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (like Rotel)
• 1 (10.75-ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk about a few of these ingredients. Using Rotel adds a little bit of heat and a ton of flavor that really elevates this dish. But if you’re sensitive to spice, you can use the mild version, or even just plain diced tomatoes. And don’t skimp on the cream cheese! It’s what makes the sauce so rich and creamy. You can substitute it with Neufchâtel cheese if you prefer a lighter option. For the chicken, rotisserie chicken is my go-to for convenience, but leftover baked or grilled chicken works great too!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the spaghetti. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the spaghetti and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the vegetables. While the spaghetti is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. The smell of this is what makes me hungry every single time.

Step 3: Make the sauce. Stir in the diced tomatoes and green chilies, cream of chicken soup, cream cheese, diced tomatoes, milk, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the cream cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy, about 5-7 minutes. After testing this several times, I learned that lowering the heat and stirring constantly is a must, or the cream cheese will not mix well.

Step 4: Combine the ingredients. Add the cooked spaghetti and shredded chicken to the sauce. Toss to combine, making sure everything is evenly coated.

Step 5: Assemble the casserole. Pour the spaghetti mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle with 1 1/2 cups of the cheddar cheese.

Step 6: Bake the casserole. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese and bake for another 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.

Expert Tips from My Kitchen

• Spice it up (or down): Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. For a milder casserole, omit the cayenne pepper altogether. For a spicier casserole, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Don’t overcook the spaghetti: Al dente spaghetti will hold its shape better in the casserole. Nobody wants mushy noodles!
• Shred your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly. Grating your own cheese ensures a perfectly melty topping.
• Add some veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables to the casserole, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or corn. Just sauté them along with the onion and bell pepper.
• Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add about 10 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
• Kid-friendly tip: My kids are notorious for not wanting to try new things, so I use the smallest amount of cayenne pepper and they love it!
• Reheating: To reheat leftovers, cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.

Storage & Meal Prep

This Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is great for meal prepping. You can assemble it up to 24 hours in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Baked leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, bake covered with foil or microwave individual portions. For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and it will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Substitutions & Variations

Want to mix things up? Here are a few ideas:

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free spaghetti and cream of chicken soup to make this casserole gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute dairy-free cream cheese and milk for the dairy-containing versions.
• Spicier: Add a can of green chiles or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for extra heat.
• Different Protein: Swap the chicken for cooked ground beef, sausage, or even shrimp.
• Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and add more vegetables, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! This Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is perfect for making ahead. Assemble the entire casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add about 10 minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.

How do I know when the casserole is done?

The casserole is done when the cheese is melted and bubbly and the sauce is heated through. A good indication is when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Also, look for the edges to be lightly browned.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Definitely! While cheddar cheese is classic, you can use other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or even a blend of Italian cheeses. Use whatever you have on hand or whatever your family prefers.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze this casserole. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then with foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Is this casserole kid-friendly?

Yes, it can be! My kids love it when I keep the spice level mild. Using mild Rotel or omitting the cayenne pepper entirely makes it more palatable for kids. You can also add some extra cheese on top to make it even more appealing.

What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?

If you don’t have cream of chicken soup, you can make a substitute using 2 tablespoons of butter, 2 tablespoons of flour, 1 1/2 cups of chicken broth, and 1/2 cup of milk or cream. Whisk together and cook over medium heat until thickened.

Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?

Of course! Adding vegetables is a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients. Sauté your favorite veggies, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, or zucchini, and add them to the sauce before combining it with the spaghetti and chicken.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but it’s also great served with a simple side salad or some garlic bread. For a more complete meal, try serving it with steamed green beans or roasted broccoli. I love to garnish it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Well, there you have it – my Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole recipe, straight from my Texas kitchen to yours. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a memory in the making. This recipe has been a hit with my family for years, and I have no doubt that it will become a beloved staple in your home as well. Don’t forget to adjust the spices according to your family’s preference, and feel free to get creative with the ingredients. And if you like this Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole, you are going to love my Jalapeno Popper Chicken Casserole. Give it a try and let me know how it goes in the comments below – I can’t wait to hear what you think!

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