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Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Caroline

Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

This hearty Southern casserole combines tender spaghetti, creamy chicken sauce, and a bold kick of jalapeño and cayenne. Loaded with melted cheddar and Monterey Jack, it’s the ultimate comfort food with a spicy twist!
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 8 portions
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz spaghetti, cooked al dente
  • 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
  • 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup
  • 10 oz Rotel tomatoes with green chilies
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 small bell pepper, diced
  • 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 0.5 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • salt and pepper, to taste

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch casserole dish
  • large mixing bowl
  • skillet
  • wooden spoon or spatula
  • cheese grater (if shredding fresh cheese)

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish.
  2. Sauté the vegetables: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño. Cook until softened and fragrant.
  3. Prepare the sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, Rotel tomatoes, chicken broth, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne, salt, pepper, and 1½ cups of cheddar cheese. Mix well.
  4. Add the chicken and pasta: Stir in the cooked chicken and spaghetti, followed by the sautéed vegetables. Toss until everything is evenly coated.
  5. Assemble the casserole: Pour the mixture into the prepared dish. Sprinkle with remaining cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
  6. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden on top.
  7. Serve: Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.

Notes

For an extra layer of flavor, top the casserole with crispy fried onions or crushed tortilla chips before baking. This recipe freezes well, making it an excellent choice for busy families who love homemade Southern comfort food without the stress of last-minute cooking.