This Irresistible Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, spicy seasonings, and creamy cheese with spaghetti. Perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers, this casserole is sure to be a hit at your dinner table!

Ingredients List

For the Casserole

• 8 oz spaghetti (uncooked)
• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (drained)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

1. Boil Water: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
2. Cook Spaghetti: Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Heat Oil: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Sauté Onions and Peppers: Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened.

Step 3: Prepare the Casserole Mixture

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, diced tomatoes, milk, sautéed vegetables, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
2. Add Cheese: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, reserving some for topping.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
3. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle additional cheddar cheese and sliced black olives (if using) over the top.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

1. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 6: Serve

1. Garnish: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
2. Dish Up: Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional content per serving (assuming 8 servings):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	400
Total Fat	18g
Saturated Fat	8g
Cholesterol	70mg
Sodium	800mg
Total Carbohydrates	40g
Dietary Fiber	2g
Sugars	2g
Protein	25g

Tips for Success

To ensure your Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Leftover Chicken: This is a great way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to adjust the cayenne pepper based on your spice preference. You can also add jalapeños for an extra kick.
• Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

Variations

• Add Vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for added nutrition.
• Cheese Varieties: Use different cheeses such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicier flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular spaghetti with gluten-free pasta.

Conclusion

This Irresistible Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a hearty and satisfying dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. It’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks and is sure to become a favorite!

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Can I freeze the casserole?

Yes! You can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.