Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole: Ultimate Comfort Food

Fiery Southern Chicken Spaghetti Bake: Comfort Food with a Zesty Kick

Craving a comforting dish that brings the heat? This Fiery Southern Chicken Spaghetti Bake offers tender spaghetti smothered in a luscious, cheesy sauce, bursting with the bold flavors of seasoned chicken and just the right amount of spice to ignite your palate. It’s a modern twist on southern classics, guaranteed to spice up your dinner routine!

What Makes This Recipe Stand Out

This Fiery Southern Chicken Spaghetti Bake is all about bringing people together through flavor and warmth. Imagine a cozy, cheesy casserole hug with a surprising spicy pop!

• Flavor harmony: Smooth, cheesy richness combined with vibrant, spicy notes
• Prep-friendly: Assemble ahead of time for a no-fuss dinner solution
• Second-day magic: Leftovers taste even better as flavors meld overnight
• Family favorite: Appeals to picky eaters and spice lovers alike
• Easy clean-up: One-dish meal for stress-free evenings

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Ingredients You’ll Need

• 12 ounces spaghetti, broken in half
• 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)
• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1-2 jalapeños, chopped (adjust seeds for preferred heat)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup chicken broth, plus extra if needed
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
• ½ cup sour cream
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ – ½ tsp cayenne pepper (to taste)
• Hot sauce as desired
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish

How To Make It: Step-by-Step

1. Cook the spaghetti until just shy of al dente, about 2 minutes less than the package recommends. It finishes cooking in the oven.
2. Sauté the veggies in olive oil or butter: onion, bell pepper, and jalapeños until softened (5-7 minutes). Add garlic, cooking another 30 seconds.
3. Mix the creamy sauce: On low heat, stir in cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, cream cheese, diced tomatoes with chilies, sour cream, and spices (chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, cayenne, hot sauce). Let everything melt into a smooth sauce.
4. Add chicken and cheese: Fold in shredded chicken and 1½ cups cheddar cheese, seasoning with salt and pepper.
5. Combine pasta and sauce: Toss the cooked spaghetti gently into the sauce, adding extra broth if it seems too thick.
6. Assemble the casserole: Spread mixture into a greased 9×13 baking dish and sprinkle remaining cheddar on top. Add pickled jalapeños for extra zing if desired.
7. Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
8. Rest, garnish, and serve: Let cool 5-10 minutes before sprinkling with fresh herbs.

Tips to Avoid Common Pitfalls

• Don’t overcook the pasta before baking; it should be slightly firm.
• Always let your casserole rest after baking to set properly.
• Use softened cream cheese to keep your sauce smooth and creamy.
• Don’t hesitate to boost the spices—it’s meant to have a lively kick.
• Add a splash more broth if the mixture looks dry before baking.

Variations & Swaps

• Protein: Swap chicken for turkey, ground beef, or even sausage.
• Pasta: Penne, rotini, or fettuccine can be used instead of spaghetti.
• Spice level: Adjust jalapeños, cayenne, and hot sauce to your liking.
• Cheese: Try pepper jack, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend.
• Veggies: Add corn, black beans, or mushrooms for more texture.
• Dairy: Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream in a pinch.

For extra crunch, top with buttered breadcrumbs before baking for a classic Southern touch.

FAQ

How spicy is this casserole?
Moderate heat by default, but easily adjustable from mild to fiery.

Can I prepare it ahead?
Yes! Assemble, refrigerate up to 24 hours, then bake when ready.

Is it freezable?
Absolutely. Freeze before or after baking; thaw completely before reheating.

What sides pair well?
Fresh green salad, garlic bread, or Southern staples like collard greens.

How to store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of broth to restore creaminess.

Final Thoughts

This Fiery Southern Chicken Spaghetti Bake transforms cozy comfort food with a lively spicy kick, creating a dish that’s as heartwarming as it is flavorful. Perfect for weeknights, family dinners, or casual gatherings, it’s guaranteed to become a staple in your recipe collection. So warm up your oven and your taste buds—southern comfort just got a little hotter!

Hungry for more? Explore our easy dinner recipes for tasty, fuss-free meals your family will love.