Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a comforting crowd-pleaser with tender chicken, perfectly cooked spaghetti, and a creamy, cheesy sauce that has a little kick to it. The blend of Southern spices gives it a nice warmth without being too hot, making it just the right kind of spicy for family dinners. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a big, cozy hug in a bowl.
I love making this casserole when I want something that’s both easy to prepare and full of flavor. The chicken stays juicy, and the sauce clings to every strand of spaghetti, so every bite is satisfying. I usually add a sprinkle of extra cheese on top before baking because who doesn’t want that gooey, golden crust? It’s always a hit and leaves everyone asking for seconds.
One of my favorite ways to serve this dish is alongside a simple green salad or some steamed veggies to balance out the richness. It also reheats wonderfully, so I like to make a big batch to enjoy leftovers during the week. This casserole reminds me of cozy evenings with friends and family, sharing a hearty meal and good conversation around the table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: Regular spaghetti works great here, but you can use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit your needs. Just cook according to the package directions until al dente.
Chicken: Rotisserie chicken saves time and adds great flavor. You can also use leftover cooked chicken or bake breasts and shred them yourself.
Cream Cheese & Sour Cream: These make the sauce creamy and rich. For a lighter option, try Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, or reduced-fat cream cheese.
Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: This is where the mild heat comes from. If you want it less spicy, use regular diced tomatoes. For more heat, add a bit extra cayenne or use hot diced chilies.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a nice bite, but you can swap in Monterey Jack or Colby for a milder taste. Feel free to mix cheeses for extra flavor.
How Can I Get the Sauce Creamy and Smooth Without Breaking?
Combining the cream cheese and sour cream smoothly is key to this dish’s texture. Here’s how to do it:
- Soften cream cheese before cooking. It’s easier to blend and won’t clump.
- Use medium heat when melting cream cheese and sour cream. Too high and they might separate.
- Stir constantly to keep the mixture smooth and prevent burning.
- If the sauce feels thick, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth helps loosen it.
- Mix in the tomatoes and spices slowly, so everything blends well and the sauce stays creamy.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – to boil the spaghetti easily and evenly.
- Large skillet – perfect for sautéing onions and melting cream cheese into a smooth sauce.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – to stir the sauce without scratching your pan.
- 9×13-inch baking dish – roomy enough for the casserole to bake evenly and bubbly.
- Colander – to drain the cooked spaghetti quickly and safely.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap cooked shredded chicken for turkey or rotisserie pork for a different protein twist.
- Add chopped bell peppers or jalapeños for extra color and a fresh spicy kick.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for creaminess with a mild heat boost.
- Stir in sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra veggies and texture.
Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken or homemade)
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (e.g., Ro*Tel), drained
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, plus extra for topping
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to spice preference)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook the ingredients on the stove, plus 20–25 minutes baking in the oven. So, you’re looking at roughly 40 minutes from start to finish including baking time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Cook Spaghetti:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Cook the spaghetti in boiling salted water according to package instructions until just tender (al dente). Drain well and set aside.
2. Make the Creamy Spicy Sauce:
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the softened cream cheese and sour cream, stirring until you have a smooth, creamy sauce.
3. Add Chicken and Seasonings:
Mix in the drained diced tomatoes with green chilies, shredded chicken, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook together for 2–3 minutes to let the flavors blend.
4. Combine Spaghetti and Sauce:
Remove the skillet from heat and add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce. Toss everything together gently to coat all the noodles evenly with the creamy, spicy mixture.
5. Bake the Casserole:
Transfer the pasta mixture into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top. Bake uncovered in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
6. Garnish and Serve:
After baking, let the casserole cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle crumbled cooked bacon and chopped parsley or cilantro over the top for a fresh, flavorful finish. Serve warm and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Casserole?
Yes! Just be sure to thaw the chicken completely before shredding and adding it to the dish. Thaw overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave for quick thawing.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally for even heating.
What Can I Serve with This Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole?
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a light green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the rich and creamy flavors. Cornbread or garlic bread also make delicious accompaniments.
