Easy Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole – The Ultimate Comfort Bake for Students

🥘 Introduction: Why Students Love This Southern Classic

Let’s be honest — some nights, you just want a meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day of classes, group projects, and caffeine-fueled study sessions. That’s where this Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole comes in.

Imagine creamy cheese sauce coating tender spaghetti, juicy chicken chunks, and just the right amount of spicy kick to wake up your taste buds. It’s comfort food with attitude — and the best part? You can make it in one dish with cheap, easy-to-find ingredients from any student grocery list.

This dish has that Southern charm — it’s hearty, cozy, and perfect for leftovers (hello, next-day lunch!). Whether you’re cooking for roommates, hosting a mini potluck, or meal prepping for the week, this casserole checks every box.

If you love low-mess dinners, you’ll devour these one-pan chicken recipes next.

🍗 Ingredients for Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this soul-warming classic:

🧂 Basic Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti (regular or whole wheat)
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great!)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chiles (like Rotel)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• 1 cup Monterey Jack or mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup chopped onions
• ½ cup chopped bell peppers
• 2 tbsp butter or olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice level)
• Salt & pepper to taste

🔥 Optional Toppings

• Crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs
• Sprinkle of paprika or chili flakes
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Estimated Cost: $10–$12 (serves 6 generous student portions!)

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Boil your pasta in salted water until just al dente (a little firm to the bite). Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

In a large skillet, heat butter or olive oil. Add chopped onions and peppers. Cook until softened and slightly golden — this adds that Southern sweetness.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce

Add cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, diced tomatoes with chiles, and chicken broth. Stir until smooth and bubbling.

Step 4: Add the Chicken and Spices

Toss in the shredded chicken, garlic powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Mix well and taste — this is your moment to adjust the heat level.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add cooked spaghetti and 1 ½ cups of cheese into the sauce. Mix until every noodle is coated in cheesy, spicy goodness.

Step 6: Bake It to Perfection

Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese and optional cracker topping.

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy

Let it cool for a few minutes (the cheese will set beautifully). Garnish with parsley and dive in!

💸 Budget-Friendly Student Tips

• Use leftover chicken — or even canned chicken in a pinch.
• Swap the cheeses with whatever’s on sale: cheddar, Colby Jack, or even pepper jack for extra heat.
• Make it meal prep friendly: divide into containers for 3–4 days.
• Add frozen veggies like corn, peas, or spinach to stretch your servings.
• Got no oven? Combine everything on the stove and top with cheese — a “lazy casserole” version that still tastes amazing.
• Want more $10-and-under ideas? Check out my budget chicken dinners for college students

🌶️ Flavor Variations: Make It Your Own

• Extra Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
• Creamier Version: Mix in a spoonful of cream cheese before baking.
• Tex-Mex Style: Sprinkle crushed tortilla chips on top instead of breadcrumbs.
• Vegetarian Twist: Swap chicken for black beans and corn.
• Craving another cozy bake? Try my hearty cowboy casserole for a crowd-pleasing twist.”

🧊 Storage and Reheating Tips

• Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days in the fridge.
• Freeze portions for up to 2 months.
• Reheat in the microwave with a splash of milk or broth to keep it creamy.

🍽️ Nutrition Breakdown (per serving)

• Calories: ~450
• Protein: 28g
• Carbs: 32g
• Fat: 22g
• Sodium: 980mg
• Fiber: 2g

Note: values are approximate — varies by cheese and soup brands.

❓ FAQs

1. Can I make this Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble it up to a day in advance, refrigerate, then bake before serving.

2. Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes — it’s a total time-saver and adds flavor.

3. How can I make this less spicy?

Skip the cayenne and use mild diced tomatoes instead of spicy ones.

4. What’s the best cheese to use?

Sharp cheddar melts beautifully and adds bold flavor, but Monterey Jack makes it creamier.

5. Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and cream soups.

❤️ Conclusion: The Spicy Comfort You’ll Crave Again and Again

This Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is more than just a dinner — it’s a taste of home even when you’re hundreds of miles away at college. Creamy, cheesy, a little fiery, and unbelievably cozy, it’s that recipe you’ll crave on cold nights or exam weeks when you need something easy and soul-satisfying.

So grab a fork (and maybe a friend), queue up your favorite playlist, and dig in.
Because comfort food this good deserves to be shared. 💛

👉 Next up: Try our Easy 3-Ingredient Ramen Alfredo or Cheap One-Pan Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl!
For more cozy student meals, join our Campus Eats Newsletter for weekly budget bites and easy dorm recipes.