Ultimate Rotel Chicken Spaghetti Recipe – A Rich & Irresistibly Flavorful Dish
Rotel Chicken Spaghetti is a comforting, flavorful dish that brings together creamy cheese, tender chicken, and zesty Rotel tomatoes with spaghetti for a meal that’s perfect for any occasion. This easy-to-make recipe is customizable and loved by both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, Rotel Chicken Spaghetti will quickly become a crowd-pleaser.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Rotel Chicken Spaghetti is a classic Southern comfort food that blends tender chicken, creamy cheese, and zesty Rotel tomatoes for a rich, satisfying dish that is sure to impress. The hearty and flavorful ingredients combine seamlessly to create a delicious meal that’s both easy to prepare and perfect for any gathering.
What makes Rotel Chicken Spaghetti stand out from other pasta dishes is the use of Rotel tomatoes, which are diced tomatoes mixed with green chilies. This small ingredient adds a unique touch of spice and flavor to the dish, setting it apart from traditional spaghetti recipes. Whether you’re looking to use up leftover chicken or simply want a tasty, one-pan meal, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
In addition to its incredible taste, Rotel Chicken Spaghetti is also highly versatile. You can adjust the spice level, swap out ingredients, or even make it ahead of time. It’s a dish that works for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or hosting a potluck. The combination of creamy cheese and spicy Rotel tomatoes creates a comforting and filling meal that everyone can enjoy.
What is Rotel Chicken Spaghetti?

Rotel Chicken Spaghetti is a Southern-inspired casserole dish made with shredded chicken, Rotel tomatoes, spaghetti pasta, and a cheesy sauce. The combination of ingredients creates a creamy, slightly spicy, and flavorful dish that is baked to perfection. It is a hearty meal that can be served on its own or paired with side dishes.
Rotel tomatoes are the key ingredient in this dish, bringing a delicious mix of diced tomatoes and green chilies. This addition imparts just the right amount of spice without being overwhelming, making the dish flavorful and exciting. Rotel Chicken Spaghetti is a comforting meal that’s perfect for feeding a large group of people or enjoying as a comforting family dinner.
Why Choose Rotel Chicken Spaghetti?
- Easy and Quick to Prepare
One of the best things about Rotel Chicken Spaghetti is how easy it is to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a hearty, delicious meal on the table in under an hour. It’s perfect for those busy days when you want something comforting but don’t have much time to cook. - Perfect for Leftovers
This dish reheats well, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers. The flavors of Rotel Chicken Spaghetti improve as they sit, making it even tastier the next day. You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze it for later. - Customizable to Your Taste
One of the best things about Rotel Chicken Spaghetti is how customizable it is. You can make it as spicy or mild as you prefer by adjusting the amount of chili powder or adding diced jalapeños. If you prefer a creamier texture, you can add more Velveeta cheese or even sour cream. The recipe is easily adjustable to accommodate your taste preferences. - Great for Large Gatherings
Rotel Chicken Spaghetti is a perfect dish for feeding a large group. It’s easy to make in a big batch and is sure to be a hit at family gatherings, parties, or potlucks. The hearty ingredients and delicious flavors make it an excellent choice for any event.
Ingredients for Rotel Chicken Spaghetti
To prepare this delicious and creamy dish, you will need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
- 1 can of Rotel tomatoes (diced tomatoes with added green chilies)
- 8 oz spaghetti (cooked and drained)
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional for extra spice)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup Velveeta cheese (cubed, optional for extra creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley (for garnish)
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (optional for added flavor and crunch)
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (if you like extra heat)
Each of these ingredients contributes to the rich and comforting nature of Rotel Chicken Spaghetti. The combination of creamy soups, shredded chicken, and zesty Rotel tomatoes creates a comforting sauce that coats the spaghetti beautifully, making every bite rich and flavorful.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Rotel Chicken Spaghetti

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Begin by boiling a large pot of water. Add a pinch of salt and cook the spaghetti according to the directions on the package. Be sure not to overcook the pasta, as it will bake in the oven and continue to soften. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
If you’re using raw chicken, cook it in a pot of water until fully cooked. Cut the chicken into small, bite-sized pieces or shred it. Alternatively, you can use rotisserie chicken for convenience and added flavor.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium heat until melted. Add the Rotel tomatoes, cream of mushroom soup, and cream of chicken soup to the pan. Stir in the chicken broth, and then add the Velveeta cheese (if using) until it melts into the sauce. The Velveeta cheese creates an ultra-creamy texture, but you can omit it if you prefer a lighter sauce. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and chili powder, and stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
Add the cooked spaghetti and shredded chicken into the sauce, mixing well to ensure that the pasta is fully coated. Stir in the sour cream and shredded cheddar cheese, which will melt and give the dish its signature creamy texture.
Step 5: Bake the Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and top with additional shredded cheddar cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Tips for the Best Rotel Chicken Spaghetti
- Use freshly cooked chicken for the best flavor, but leftover or rotisserie chicken works well too.
- Add extra Velveeta cheese if you want a creamier texture.
- Make it spicier by adding more cayenne pepper, chili powder, or diced jalapeños for extra heat.
- Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or onions for added flavor and nutrition.
- Pair it with garlic bread or a refreshing salad to make it a complete meal.
Can I Make Rotel Chicken Spaghetti Ahead of Time?
Yes! Rotel Chicken Spaghetti can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours. This makes it an excellent choice for meal prepping or preparing for a gathering. Simply follow the recipe through Step 4, cover the baking dish with foil, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and bake as directed. You may need to add an additional 5-10 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it’s heated through.
Can I Make Rotel Chicken Spaghetti in a Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can! To make Rotel Chicken Spaghetti in a slow cooker, simply combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, stirring occasionally. When it’s time to serve, you can transfer it to a serving dish, or serve directly from the slow cooker. This is a great option if you’re preparing the dish in advance or need a hands-off approach to cooking.
How Can I Make Rotel Chicken Spaghetti Healthier?
While Rotel Chicken Spaghetti is already a hearty and satisfying dish, you can make a few adjustments to make it a bit lighter. Consider using whole wheat pasta for added fiber, opting for low-fat cheese, or using reduced-fat soups. Additionally, you can add more vegetables like spinach or broccoli to increase the nutritional value of the dish.
What to Serve with Rotel Chicken Spaghetti
Rotel Chicken Spaghetti pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides:
- Garlic bread: The perfect complement to the cheesy, creamy dish.
- Side salad: A light, fresh salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing helps balance the richness of the spaghetti.
- Roasted vegetables: Roasted carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts provide a healthy and flavorful side.
Conclusion
Rotel Chicken Spaghetti is a flavorful, cheesy, and comforting dish that makes an excellent meal for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or bringing a dish to a gathering, this recipe will not disappoint. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful Rotel tomatoes, and creamy cheese creates a mouthwatering dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Its versatility and ease of preparation make it a go-to recipe for busy nights or large gatherings. Try it today and enjoy a comforting meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your household!
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