Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole has saved the day at my house more than once. You know when you need something bold but not too fussy, big enough to feed, like, all your neighbors if they walk in? Or maybe you just want dinner to taste like a backyard get-together if you can’t get outside. This is it. I first tried making it after I fell down the casserole rabbit hole over at the best recipes using chicken breast skillet casserole, and now I can’t not make it at least once a month. If you’re drawn to cozy meals but want more flavor (oh, and a little kick—nothing crazy), you’ll love this. And if you’re feeling adventurous, give my pal’s creamy million dollar chicken rice a roni casserole a peek when you’re done.
Homemade Chicken Spaghetti
Alright, so let’s get something straight—homemade chicken spaghetti is not the bland elbow-macaroni-and-jarred-sauce situation a lot of folks grew up on. I’m talking tender chicken, creamy sauce, fresh veggies, and just enough zip to keep you coming back for seconds. Look, this isn’t some five-star restaurant gig, but it’s honest, down-home cooking that actually feels special.
I got hooked on this Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole after a holiday potluck where someone’s grandma (with the thickest southern accent I’ve ever heard) made me try it. I didn’t even like casseroles before, but this—well, it changed my mind. The sauce gets all happy with a mix of cheese and those sneaky peppers. You can use rotisserie chicken if you’re on “I’m too tired for life” mode, or leftover baked chicken from last night. For a quick switch up, check out these 7 easy chicken breast recipes for busy weeknights or even swap in a little turkey if you’re wild like that. It’s cheaper than therapy and more comforting too.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Spaghetti | 8 oz | Use whole wheat or gluten-free for a healthier option |
| Cooked chicken | 2 cups | Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully |
| Cream cheese | 8 oz | For that creamy texture and flavor |
| Cream of chicken soup | 1 can (10.5 oz) | Adds moisture and depth |
| Diced green chilies | 1 can (4 oz) | Adjust for heat preference |
| Cheddar cheese | 1 cup, shredded | Use sharp for extra flavor |
| Bell peppers | 1 cup, diced | Red or green, your choice! |
| Onion | 1 small, diced | Add sweetness |
How To Make Spicy Chicken Spaghetti
Promise I won’t bog you down with complicated steps. Basically, here’s what happens: boil spaghetti just ‘til it still has some life in it. Drain—throw in a big mixing bowl with chicken. Don’t overthink it.
Now, what brings the fire? Diced green chilies. Maybe a jalapeno if you’re brave. I also toss in some bell peppers (red looks fancy), onions, and sometimes a good hit of seasoned salt. Cream cheese and cheddar melt together, making the whole kitchen smell like a dreamy southern cookout. Pour in a can of cream of chicken soup (or make your own—I never have time). Mix it all up with the pasta and chicken.
After that, spread it in a casserole dish and bake until it’s bubbly and the cheese on top is a little bit golden. And if you leave it in for extra minutes because, oops, you got distracted—honestly, it’ll still taste perfect. That’s the magic.
Make Ahead Tips
I live for a recipe you can prep ahead. This Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole gets even better if you throw it together the night before, then bake fresh when you’re ready. Huge win at my house because after work, my brain is mush.
Here’s what I figured out: assemble every bit, cover it tight, and stash it in the fridge. Up to two days is safe (I’ve pushed it, but don’t tell my mother). If you’re freezing, I suggest wrapping it tightly with plastic, then foil—write the date on top. Pull it out, let it thaw overnight, then bake like usual. Easy. So when surprise guests show up or your kids bring cousins, dinner’s handled.
How To Serve
Everyone has their favorite side for casseroles, right? This Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole goes with so many things. My go-to’s:
- Pair it with a crisp green salad for freshness.
- Hot garlic bread—to soak up all that saucy goodness.
- Sweet tea (for the full southern effect).
- Bonus points for a plate of southern pickled okra on the side, trust me.
It’s also filling enough as a main dish if you just want to ladle it into big bowls and call it a night.
Can Chicken Spaghetti be made in the slow cooker
I’ve tinkered with this, and yeah, Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole can work in the slow cooker. It’s great for days when you’re juggling a hundred things, or if it’s just too hot to turn on the oven. You build the layers the same way, set it on low for 4-5 hours, and just forget about it. The noodles go in at the end for about 30 minutes so they don’t turn into mush.
Honestly, sometimes the edges get extra crispy when you bake it, but the slow cooker version is pure comfort food with zero effort. If you’re new to slow cooker chicken, these chicken breast crockpot recipes are easy & tender. Get creative, you can’t mess this up too bad.
How To Store
After you make Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole, you’ll want leftovers (rare for casserole, but this one disappears fast). Here’s what I do: let it cool a bit, then slam it into airtight containers. Fridge for up to four days. If you’re anything like me, you’ll eat it cold straight from the container at midnight and not even regret it.
Want it to last longer? Wrap and freeze individual squares. Thaw in the fridge overnight so it reheats nice and even. Don’t microwave to death, or you’ll end up with rubber instead of comfort.
Common Questions
Can I use a different kind of cheese?
Sure can! Pepper jack is extra spicy, or try mozzarella for a milder vibe.
What happens if I forget the peppers?
No one’s calling the food police. It’ll be less spicy, more kid-friendly. Still tasty.
Is it ok to use canned chicken?
Absolutely. It’s not high brow, but it works when you’re in a hurry or the fridge looks empty.
How do I keep my casserole from drying out?
Cover loosely with foil for the first half of baking, then finish uncovered for a golden top.
Can I make it gluten free?
Yes! Just swap in your favorite gluten-free spaghetti noodles and double check your soup (or make homemade).
Gather ‘Round, It’s Casserole Night
To sum it up, Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is honestly one of the cosiest, easiest recipes you could ever pull from your kitchen. Don’t stress about messing it up, because each pan turns out a little different—and that’s kind of what I love about it. For even more ideas if you’re hooked on this, my buddies over at Easy Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti | Delightful-Delicious …, Spicy Chicken Spaghetti – Spicy Southern Kitchen, and Ultimate Chicken Spaghetti – Southern Bite have great spins too. Try it once and tell me your family doesn’t beg for more, because mine sure does. Real cooking, simple flavors, and always a little room for seconds.
Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A cozy and flavorful Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole that is perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
- 8 oz Spaghetti (use whole wheat or gluten-free for a healthier option)
- 2 cups Cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works wonderfully)
- 8 oz Cream cheese (for a creamy texture)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) Cream of chicken soup (adds moisture and depth)
- 1 can (4 oz) Diced green chilies (adjust for heat preference)
- 1 cup Cheddar cheese, shredded (use sharp for extra flavor)
- 1 cup Bell peppers, diced (red or green)
- 1 small Onion, diced (adds sweetness)
Instructions
- Boil spaghetti until al dente, then drain and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
- Add cooked chicken to the bowl and mix gently.
- Incorporate diced green chilies, bell peppers, onions, and seasoned salt.
- Mix in cream cheese and cream of chicken soup until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the oven until bubbly and the cheese is golden brown.
Notes
Can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg