Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Oh honey, I've tried! While fresh tomatoes sound healthier, they actually make the casserole too watery. The canned tomatoes with green chilies are packed in just the right amount of juice to keep everything moist without turning soupy. If you're dead set on fresh, roast them first to concentrate the flavor and reduce moisture.

How can I make it milder for kids or sensitive eaters?

Easy peasy! Just leave out the cayenne entirely and use mild diced tomatoes instead of the kind with green chilies. The garlic and onion powders will still give it plenty of flavor. My niece calls this the "happy dance casserole" because she does a little jig when she eats the mild version!

What are the best side dishes to serve with this?

You can't go wrong with classic Southern sides! I love pairing it with: • Garlic cheese biscuits (for maximum carb comfort) • A crisp green salad with buttermilk dressing • Steamed green beans with almonds • Cornbread (because is it really a Southern meal without it?)

Can I prepare this ahead and bake it later?

Absolutely! Assemble everything (just don't add the cheese topping yet), cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, sprinkle on the cheese and add about 5 extra minutes to the cooking time. It's my secret for stress-free entertaining!

Why does my casserole sometimes come out dry?

Usually this means your pasta absorbed too much liquid. Next time, try slightly undercooking the spaghetti and don't drain the canned tomatoes - that liquid is gold! If it still seems dry when mixing, add a tablespoon or two of chicken broth or milk to loosen it up.

Irresistible Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole in 3 Simple Steps

Name: Irresistible Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole in 3 Simple Steps
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 8 oz spaghetti, cooked; 1 can cream of chicken soup; 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper; Salt and pepper to taste

Description

A flavorful chicken spaghetti casserole with a spicy Southern twist.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
8 oz spaghetti, cooked
1 can cream of chicken soup
1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp paprika
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
Salt and pepper to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F.
Mix chicken, spaghetti, soup, tomatoes, sour cream, and spices in a bowl.
Transfer mixture to a greased casserole dish.
Sprinkle cheese on top.
Bake for 25 minutes or until bubbly.
Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Adjust cayenne for more or less heat.
Store leftovers refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Casserole
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Southern