Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

When it comes to Southern comfort food, nothing hits the spot quite like a Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole. This hearty dish combines succulent chicken, rich cheese, tender spaghetti, and a little Southern heat to create the ultimate casserole for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you need to serve up something satisfying and full of flavor.
Whether you’re looking for a meal to prepare ahead of time or something to spice up your dinner routine, this cheesy chicken spaghetti casserole ticks all the boxes. Let’s dive into the details of how to make this dish, with extra tips to ensure it comes out perfect every time.
Ingredients for Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
The beauty of this dish lies in the combination of simple, easily accessible ingredients that come together to form an indulgent and flavorful casserole. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredient Amount
Spaghetti 1 lb (cooked)
Chicken (shredded) 1 lb (about 1 rotisserie chicken)
Unsalted butter 2 tablespoons
Velveeta cheese (cut into chunks) 1 lb
Milk 1 cup
Rotel (diced tomatoes and green chilies) 1 (10 oz) can
Cream of mushroom soup 1 (10 oz) can
Shredded cheddar cheese 1 cup
Panko bread crumbs 1/2 cup
Crushed red pepper flakes To taste
Salt and pepper To taste
Optional Garnishes:
Fresh parsley or cilantro
Sliced green onions
Jalapeño slices for extra heat
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Spaghetti
Start by cooking the spaghetti according to the package directions. You’ll want the spaghetti to be al dente, meaning it should have a slight firmness to it. This ensures the spaghetti holds up well during baking and doesn’t become mushy. Once cooked, drain and set it aside.