Irresistible Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Savor the delightful combination of tender chicken, zesty spices, and creamy pasta in this Irresistible Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole. This comforting dish is perfect for family dinners or potlucks, offering a warm and hearty meal that everyone will love. With a kick of spice and a blend of Southern flavors, your taste buds will dance with joy!
This dish is inspired by Southern home cooking traditions, combining everyday ingredients with a delightful kick of spice.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.
- A delicious way to use leftover chicken.
- Creamy and spicy, it's a unique twist on classic spaghetti.
Flavorful Ingredients that Shine
One of the standout features of this Irresistible Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is its flavorful ingredient palette. Each component plays a vital role in creating a delicious harmony of tastes. The combination of creamy soups and sour cream adds a rich, velvety texture, while shredded chicken brings a satisfying heartiness to the dish. Using diced tomatoes with green chilies introduces a delightful kick that complements the spices perfectly.
Don’t underestimate the importance of spices in any Southern dish. The blend of paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder doesn’t just enhance the flavors; it elevates the entire meal to a new level. Each bite bursts with savory goodness, making this casserole more than just a comforting meal; it's an experience that will leave everyone craving more.
A Comforting Meal for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or need to whip up a dish for a potluck, this casserole checks all the boxes. It can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving, making it incredibly convenient for busy schedules. The ease of meal prep means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of loved ones.
Moreover, the comforting nature of this dish is second to none. With its creamy texture and enticing spices, it’s perfect for everything from family dinners to casual get-togethers. Your guests will appreciate the warmth and hospitality that comes with a home-cooked meal, and you can take pride in serving something that’s both hearty and satisfying.
Tips for Perfecting Your Casserole
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious casserole:
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your casserole:
Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the spaghetti
In a large pot, cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the mixture
In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, diced tomatoes, cheddar cheese, olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Combine ingredients
Add the cooked spaghetti to the chicken mixture and stir to combine.
Transfer to baking dish
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
Serve
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions.
Enjoy your hearty and flavorful casserole!
The Perfect Pairings
When serving your Irresistible Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole, consider complementary side dishes to enhance the overall dining experience. A light green salad with a zesty vinaigrette can balance the richness of the casserole. Additionally, cornbread or garlic bread will add a comforting touch that everyone will enjoy.
For a full Southern experience, pair your casserole with sweet tea or lemonade. These refreshing beverages complement the spice in the dish while providing a satisfying contrast that rounds out your meal perfectly.
Storage and Leftover Ideas
Storing leftovers is simple with this casserole. Once cooled, it can be covered and kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, simply pop it back into the oven at 350°F (175°C) until it's heated through, or use the microwave for a quick warm-up. The flavors meld beautifully during storage, often making the leftovers even more delicious!
If you ever find yourself with more casserole than you can eat, consider freezing it. Portion the casserole into airtight containers or freezer bags, and you'll have ready-made meals for those busy days ahead. Just be sure to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for the best results.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes! You can substitute cheddar with mozzarella or pepper jack for different flavors.
→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare it, cover, and refrigerate. Bake it when ready to serve.
Irresistible Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Savor the delightful combination of tender chicken, zesty spices, and creamy pasta in this Irresistible Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole. This comforting dish is perfect for family dinners or potlucks, offering a warm and hearty meal that everyone will love. With a kick of spice and a blend of Southern flavors, your taste buds will dance with joy!
Created by: Heidi Lawson
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large pot, cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, diced tomatoes, cheddar cheese, olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Add the cooked spaghetti to the chicken mixture and stir to combine.
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 18g