Southern-Style Spicy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

This spicy Southern cheesy chicken spaghetti casserole is the ultimate comfort food with a kick. Made with tender shredded chicken, creamy Velveeta cheese, Rotel, and crunchy panko topping, this casserole is both rich and satisfying. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, it delivers a deliciously spicy twist on a classic Southern favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make – Uses rotisserie chicken for convenience.
• Creamy and cheesy – Loaded with Velveeta and cheddar for maximum flavor.
• Spicy and flavorful – Rotel and red pepper flakes add a zesty kick.
• Perfect for potlucks – A crowd-pleasing dish that serves a family.
• Crunchy topping – Panko bread crumbs provide the perfect contrast to the creamy casserole.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb shredded chicken (rotisserie or cooked and shredded)
• 1 lb spaghetti, cooked
• 1 (10 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 (10 oz) can Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies)
• 1 lb Velveeta cheese, cubed
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• ½ cup panko bread crumbs
• Red pepper flakes (to taste)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Directions

Prepare the Ingredients

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.

Make the Cheesy Sauce

3. In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter.
4. Add the Velveeta cheese, cheddar cheese, cream of mushroom soup, and milk. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
5. Stir in the Rotel and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.

Assemble the Casserole

6. Add the shredded chicken and cooked spaghetti to the cheese sauce, stirring until fully coated.
7. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
8. Sprinkle panko bread crumbs evenly over the top.

Bake the Casserole

9. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
10. Remove from the oven, let sit for 5 minutes, then serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Baking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Extra Spicy – Add diced jalapeños or use hot Rotel for more heat.
• Mild Version – Use mild cheddar and skip the red pepper flakes.
• Different Protein – Substitute shredded turkey or ham for a twist.
• Crunchy Topping – Swap panko for crushed Ritz crackers or cornflakes.
• Vegetable Addition – Add sautéed bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing – Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating – Warm in the oven at 350°F for 15 minutes, or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Penne, fettuccine, or elbow macaroni work well.

2. What can I use instead of Velveeta cheese?

You can use a mix of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.

3. How do I make this casserole less spicy?

Use mild Rotel and skip the red pepper flakes.

4. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

5. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms add great flavor and texture.

6. What should I serve with this casserole?

A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs well with this rich dish.

7. Can I use canned chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?

Yes, but rotisserie chicken provides better flavor and texture.

8. How do I keep the casserole from drying out?

Cover it with foil while reheating to keep the moisture in.

9. Can I add bacon to this recipe?

Yes! Crispy crumbled bacon adds a delicious smoky flavor.

10. Can I use cream of chicken soup instead of cream of mushroom?

Yes, cream of chicken is a great alternative.

Conclusion

This spicy Southern cheesy chicken spaghetti casserole is a warm, comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. The combination of creamy cheese, tender chicken, and a crispy topping makes it a family favorite. Whether you like it mild or extra spicy, this dish is sure to be a hit at the dinner table!

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