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Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole: Your New Go-To Family Favorite

Hey there, fellow kitchen adventurers! Are you ready to dive into a dish that’s not just easy to whip up but is also packed with flavor? If you’re searching for a tasty yet simple recipe that brings warmth and joy to your dinner table, look no further than Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole. Whether you’re a busy mom juggling toddler tantrums or a professional trying to squeeze dinner into your buzzing schedule, this casserole is about to become your lifesaver. So, grab your apron and let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

This delightful casserole is like a hug in a dish—creamy, cheesy, with just the right kick of southern spice. It’s great for weeknights when time is of the essence, yet impressive enough for a cozy gathering with friends. Plus, cleanup is a breeze because who has time to wash twenty pans after a long day? And if your kiddos are a bit picky, don’t worry; they won’t even notice the veggies hiding in there!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we start cooking, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for this mouthwatering casserole:

• 3 cups cooked spaghetti
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded (and a little extra for topping!)
• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Optional: crushed tortilla chips for topping

Cook It Up: Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Your kitchen will smell amazing in no time!

2. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked spaghetti, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, green chilies, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Mix well—it’ll look like a creamy, delicious mess and trust me, that’s a good thing!

3. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Is it just me, or does it look like it’s ready to party?

4. Sprinkle the top with the cheddar cheese, and if you’re feeling adventurous, throw some crushed tortilla chips on top for added crunch.

5. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until it’s bubbling and golden brown on top. Don’t mind me; I’ll be standing nearby, eagerly checking on it every five minutes just to see how gorgeous it’s getting.

6. Once it’s done, let it cool for a few minutes before digging in. This is the hardest part, but trust me; it’s worth the wait!

Cooking Tips

• If you don’t have cooked chicken on hand, rotisserie chicken works wonders (and saves you time). No shame, friends—it’s the secret of many busy cooks!

• Feel free to customize this casserole. Got leftover vegetables? Toss them in! It’s a great way to clean out the fridge.

• Don’t worry if your casserole looks a little lumpy when mixing—that’s all part of the cheesy charm.

The Story Behind This Dish

You know, this Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole became a staple in our house after my sister Patricia made it for a potluck. The kids cleaned their plates, and my friends went for seconds. I knew I had stumbled onto something special! This dish has since turned into a family favorite, perfect for gatherings and quiet Sunday dinners alike.

FAQs

Can I substitute any ingredients in this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of sour cream, try using Greek yogurt for a healthier twist. You can also swap the chicken for turkey or even go vegetarian by loading up on veggies.

How can I store leftovers?
This casserole can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days. Just reheat it in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Can I freeze this dish?
Yes! Just assemble the casserole without baking it, cover tightly, and freeze. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed.

Wrap It Up

So, there you have it: a deliciously easy Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole that works for any occasion! This dish is not just about fueling your family; it’s about creating memories around the dinner table—a place where laughter, stories, and of course delicious food come together. I can’t wait for you to try it, and I’m positive it’ll be a hit your family will request again and again. Happy cooking, friends!

Meta Description:
Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is your go-to meal for busy days. Quick, easy, and delicious—try it now!

And remember, for more delicious recipes that inspire, check out some of my other favorites, like Creamy Chicken Alfredo Bake, or my easy weeknight Vegetable Stir-Fry. Let’s keep cooking up joy together!