Imagine a warm, hearty casserole where the flavors meld together in perfect harmony. The Best Rotel Chicken Spaghetti does just that, blending succulent shredded chicken with a creamy, tomato-based sauce that’s both savory and slightly spicy. The addition of Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies brings a touch of Tex-Mex flair, adding a delightful kick without overwhelming the palate.
The recipe starts with tender spaghetti noodles, cooked to al dente perfection. These noodles are then enveloped in a luscious sauce made from a combination of creamy chicken soup, milk, and chicken broth. The sauce is elevated with aromatic spices like paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder, ensuring each bite is bursting with flavor.
Shredded chicken is incorporated into the sauce, providing a hearty protein element that complements the pasta beautifully. Once mixed, the entire concoction is topped with a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese, which melts into a gooey, golden topping during baking. This final step gives the dish an irresistible, cheesy crust that contrasts perfectly with the creamy, tomato-infused pasta underneath.
The Best Rotel Chicken Spaghetti is not just about taste; it’s also about convenience. The dish can be prepared ahead of time and baked fresh when needed, making it a fantastic option for busy days. It’s also easily customizable; you can adjust the spice level by choosing a milder or spicier Rotel brand, or even add extra ingredients like bell peppers or olives to tailor it to your family’s preferences.
Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this dish is sure to be a hit. Its creamy texture, cheesy topping, and satisfying flavors make it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Plus, with the option to garnish with fresh parsley, it not only tastes great but also looks inviting on the dinner table.
In summary, The Best Rotel Chicken Spaghetti is a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal that combines classic spaghetti with a deliciously spicy twist. It’s perfect for those who love a hearty, cheesy casserole with a bit of Tex-Mex flair. Enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience with this crowd-pleasing recipe!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked spaghetti
- 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast or thighs, cooked and shredded
- 1 can (10 oz/280 g) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies (or a similar brand)
- 1 can (10.5 oz/300 g) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook Spaghetti: Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare Sauce: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Mix Sauce Ingredients: In the same skillet, add the Rotel diced tomatoes, cream of chicken soup, milk, chicken broth, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine Chicken and Spaghetti: Add the shredded chicken to the sauce and mix well. Gently fold in the cooked spaghetti until everything is well combined and coated with the sauce.
- Add Cheese: Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot.
Tips:
- Chicken: For even more flavor, you can use rotisserie chicken or cook the chicken with your favorite spices.
- Cheese: Feel free to use a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
- Spice Level: Adjust the spice level by choosing a spicier or milder Rotel brand, or by adding extra chili powder or hot sauce.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare this dish a day in advance. Just assemble it up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate. Bake it the next day, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
Enjoy your delicious and comforting Rotel Chicken Spaghetti!
