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Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

This Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish packed with creamy cheese, spicy seasonings, and tender chicken. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
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Equipment

  • Large pot (for pasta)
  • Large skillet
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Mixing bowl

Ingredients
  

  • For the Casserole:
  • 2 cups cooked chicken shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great)
  • 8 oz spaghetti cooked al dente
  • 1 can 10 oz diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Rotel)
  • 1 can 10 oz cream of chicken soup
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 1/4 cup diced bell pepper any color
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust to heat preference
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • For the Topping:
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup crushed tortilla chips optional, for crunch

Instructions
 

  • Preheat Oven:
  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Cook the Spaghetti:
  • Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  • Sauté Vegetables:
  • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, cooking for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  • Prepare the Casserole Mixture:
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, diced tomatoes with green chilies (drained), cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chili powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well combined.
  • Assemble the Casserole:
  • Add the cooked spaghetti to the chicken mixture and stir to coat the pasta evenly. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, mixing until everything is well incorporated.
  • Bake the Casserole:
  • Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Top with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and, if desired, sprinkle with crushed tortilla chips for an added crunch.
  • Bake:
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
  • Serve:
  • Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. Serve hot and enjoy!