Chicken Spaghetti Rotel

Name: Creamy Herbed Chicken Pasta Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 5 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced); 1 pound penne pasta; 1.5 cups chicken broth (divided); 2 cans diced tomatoes (with basil and oregano); 2 cans cream of mushroom soup (with garlic); 1 cup Greek yogurt; 3 tablespoons Italian seasoning (divided); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 4 cups mozzarella cheese (shredded); 0.5 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; 0.25 teaspoon sea salt; 0.25 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground); 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

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By: Maria
Posted: 06/05/2025

# Creamy, Zesty Chicken Spaghetti with Rotel: A Family Favorite Recipe

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When it comes to home-cooked meals that evoke warmth and comfort, few dishes can compete with a creamy, cheesy **chicken spaghetti recipe with Rotel**. This delightful dish is not just about filling bellies; it’s about creating a memorable dining experience for you and your loved ones. With its combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked spaghetti, and the zesty kick of Rotel tomatoes, this meal has the power to bring everyone together around the table. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to whip up on a busy weeknight!

## A Walk Down Memory Lane

Growing up, Sunday evenings were special in our household. They were filled with laughter, family bonding, and the irresistible aroma of my mom’s **chicken spaghetti** wafting through the air. The kitchen transformed into a lively hub of activity as she prepared this beloved dish. I still remember that moment of anticipation—sneaking a taste of those zesty Rotel tomatoes when Mom wasn’t looking was my little act of rebellion!

Now, as I prepare this dish for my own family, I cherish the memories while creating new ones. This recipe isn’t just food; it’s a connection to our past and a celebration of our present. So let’s gather those ingredients, put on some tunes, and make this creamy chicken spaghetti together!

## Why This Chicken Spaghetti Recipe Will Become Your New Go-To

What sets this **Chicken Spaghetti with Rotel** apart? Here are just a few reasons why this dish will quickly become your new favorite:

### Simplicity and Speed

This chicken spaghetti recipe is designed for busy weeknights. With easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have a satisfying meal on the table in under an hour.

### Bold and Tangy Flavors

The star ingredient here is undeniably the Rotel tomatoes. Their unique zest and subtle spicy kick elevate this classic dish to new heights—it’s a flavor explosion that will tantalize your taste buds!

### Versatility

Whether you’re hosting a cozy family dinner, attending a potluck gathering, or preparing meals ahead for the week, this dish is incredibly adaptable. You can customize it with different cheeses, vegetables, or spices to suit your preferences.

### Comfort Food at Its Finest

Nothing beats the comforting feeling of digging into a warm, cheesy pasta dish. This **chicken spaghetti recipe** delivers that cozy feeling with every bite—perfect for chilly evenings or when you need some culinary comfort.

### Budget-Friendly

Using leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken makes this meal economical. Plus, many ingredients are pantry staples, ensuring you can whip up this dish without breaking the bank.

## Key Ingredients for the Best Chicken Spaghetti with Rotel

Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make this **Rotel chicken spaghetti** so irresistible:

– **Spaghetti:** The foundation of our dish! Cook it al dente (slightly firm) so it doesn’t become mushy during baking. Regular spaghetti works well, but feel free to use whole wheat or gluten-free options.

– **Chicken:** Your protein powerhouse! Leftover roast chicken or rotisserie chicken works beautifully here. Shredded or diced, it adds savory goodness to complement all the other flavors.

– **Rotel Tomatoes:** The flavor bomb! Canned tomatoes mixed with green chilies are key to this recipe’s heart and soul. They provide tanginess and just enough spice to make your taste buds dance! Choose mild, medium, or hot versions based on your spice tolerance.

– **Cheese:** The melty goodness that binds everything together. Cheddar cheese is a classic choice for its great meltability and flavor—but feel free to mix in mozzarella or Monterey Jack for added dimensions.

– **Cream of Mushroom Soup (Optional):** Some variations include cream of mushroom soup for extra creaminess and depth. If you prefer lighter fare, consider substituting it with chicken broth or milk.

– **Onion and Garlic:** Aromatic essentials that add depth to your dish’s flavor profile. Sauté them in olive oil first to release their full potential before adding other ingredients.

– **Olive Oil:** Ideal for sautéing vegetables and enriching your sauce.

– **Seasonings:** Salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs (like oregano or basil) round out the flavors beautifully. Always feel free to experiment with spices that resonate with your palate!

## Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Perfect Chicken Spaghetti with Rotel

Now that we’ve covered our ingredients let’s dive into making this delicious dish! Don’t worry—it’s easier than you might think!

### Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large pot filled with salted water, bring it to a boil and cook the spaghetti until al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes). Drain well and set aside. Cooking al dente ensures it maintains some firmness during baking.

### Step 2: Sauté the Rotel Tomatoes

In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle in some olive oil. Add the Rotel tomatoes and cook until their liquid reduces slightly—about 5 minutes will do! This concentrates their flavors beautifully.

### Step 3: Combine Chicken and Seasonings

Next up: add shredded chicken into your skillet and stir well until combined with the tomato mixture. Season generously with salt, pepper, and herbs like oregano or basil for an aromatic touch! For those who enjoy heat, consider tossing in a pinch of red pepper flakes.

### Step 4: Mix with Spaghetti & Transfer to Baking Dish

Transfer your cooked spaghetti into the skillet, mixing thoroughly so every strand is coated in that flavorful sauce. Then pour everything into a greased baking dish—this prevents sticking when serving!

### Step 5: Top with Cheese & Bake

Finally, top your creation generously with shredded cheese before sliding it into the oven for 20-25 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top! Let cool briefly before serving so it sets nicely.

## Tips and Tricks for the Best Chicken Spaghetti

Here are some personal tips to help ensure your chicken spaghetti turns out perfectly:

– **Don’t Overcook Your Spaghetti:** Remember—the pasta will continue cooking in the oven! Al dente is key.

– **Use High-Quality Ingredients:** Quality matters! Fresh chicken and good cheese will elevate your final dish immensely.

– **Adjust Spice Levels:** If you’re sensitive to heat but want flavor, start with mild Rotel tomatoes while adding red pepper flakes gradually until you reach desired spice level.

– **Add Vegetables:** Boost nutrition by incorporating bell peppers or zucchini! Just sauté alongside onions before combining.

– **Make It Creamier:** For an ultra-rich experience, fold in sour cream or cream cheese prior to baking.

– **Experiment with Cheeses:** Try different combinations like cheddar-mozzarella or add some Parmesan for added depth.

– **Make Ahead:** Prepare ahead by assembling everything in advance; cover tightly then refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking!

## Storage and Reheating Instructions

* **Storage:** Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
* **Freezing:** For longer storage life (up to 2 months), freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers.
* **Reheating:** To reheat from frozen/thawed state: preheat oven at 350°F (175°C) then bake covered until warmed through (20-30 mins), or microwave individual portions!

## Variations and Substitutions to Suit Your Taste

Feel like mixing things up? Here are some easy variations:

* **Spicy Chicken Spaghetti:** Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce if you crave more heat!
* **Creamy Chicken Spaghetti:** Stir in sour cream or heavy cream before baking for an ultra-creamy texture.
* **Vegetarian Version:** Omit chicken entirely; load up on veggies instead!
* **Gluten-Free Option:** Swap traditional pasta out for gluten-free alternatives.
* **Different Cheeses:** Create unique flavor profiles by experimenting with various cheeses!

## Serving Suggestions for a Complete Meal

This delicious **Chicken Spaghetti with Rotel** can shine even brighter when served alongside these delightful accompaniments:

* **Side Salad:** A fresh green salad dressed lightly balances out richness beautifully.
* **Garlic Bread:** Don’t forget crusty garlic bread—it’s perfect for soaking up leftover sauce!
* **Steamed Vegetables:** Add color—and health—to your plate by including steamed broccoli or green beans!
* **Corn on the Cob:** Grilled corn adds sweetness that complements pasta well!
* **Dessert Delight:** Cap off dinner sweetly! Simple treats like fruit salad or brownies make excellent choices.

## Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Spaghetti with Rotel

**Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?**

Absolutely! Canned chicken works well if you’re pressed for time; however fresh alternatives offer richer flavor profiles.

**Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?**

To create vegetarian-friendly iterations: skip meat entirely while loading up on veggies like bell peppers/mushrooms!

**What type of cheese works best?**

Cheddar reigns supreme due its melting qualities; however mozzarella & Monterey Jack also work wonders too!

**Can I make this dish ahead of time?**

You sure can! Assemble ahead—just cover tightly & refrigerate overnight before baking per instructions provided above.

**How do I prevent my spaghetti from sticking together?**

Cooking al dente combined with draining properly helps avoid sticking issues; tossing cooked pasta lightly in olive oil after draining adds extra insurance against clumping!

## Ready to Get Cooking?

This wholesome yet simple recipe embodies everything delicious about family traditions while offering room for personalization every step along way! Gather those ingredients now—follow instructions closely—and enjoy creating culinary masterpieces destined to become cherished family favorites over time! Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this Chicken Spaghetti with Rotel ahead of time?

Yes, you can absolutely make this dish ahead! Assemble the chicken spaghetti completely, cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, remove from the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

What are some good ingredient substitutions for the Chicken Spaghetti?

Certainly! If you’re looking for substitutions, you can swap the spaghetti for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta, using the same amount (8-10 ounces). For the chicken, you can use canned chicken (about 2 cups) or ground chicken (cooked and drained, about 1.5-2 cups). If you prefer a different cheese, mozzarella or Monterey Jack can be used in place of cheddar, and you can adjust the amount to your liking (1-2 cups shredded). If you don’t have Rotel, you can use a can of diced tomatoes with a small can of diced green chilies.

How do I know when the Chicken Spaghetti is perfectly cooked?

The Chicken Spaghetti is perfectly cooked when it’s bubbly and golden brown on top. Visually, the cheese should be melted and slightly browned. Texturally, the pasta should be tender but not mushy, and the sauce should be thickened. You can also test the internal temperature with a food thermometer; it should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure the chicken is fully heated through.

Can I scale this recipe up or double it for a larger crowd?

Yes, you can easily double or scale up this recipe! When doubling, you’ll likely need a larger baking dish, such as a 9×13 inch or larger. Adjust the cooking time slightly, adding a few extra minutes to ensure the dish is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. For larger quantities, consider using two baking dishes to ensure even cooking.

What is the nutritional value of this Chicken Spaghetti with Rotel?

This Chicken Spaghetti provides a good source of protein from the chicken and calcium from the cheese. The Rotel tomatoes contribute vitamins A and C, as well as fiber. The dish also contains carbohydrates from the spaghetti. Consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to boost the nutritional value further by adding extra vitamins and minerals.

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Creamy Herbed Chicken Pasta Bake

This creamy herbed chicken pasta bake is a delicious and easy-to-make dish, perfect for serving at any family gathering or weeknight dinner.

Prep : 10 Total : 25 minutes

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Ingredients

Main Ingredients

5 cups cooked chicken shredded or diced
1 pound penne pasta
1.5 cups chicken broth divided
2 cans diced tomatoes with basil and oregano
2 cans cream of mushroom soup with garlic
1 cup Greek yogurt
3 tablespoons Italian seasoning divided
3 cloves garlic minced
4 cups mozzarella cheese shredded
0.5 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
0.25 teaspoon sea salt
0.25 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the penne pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a medium bowl, mix the shredded chicken with 1/2 cup chicken broth and 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning. Set aside.
To make the sauce, combine the cream of mushroom soup, diced tomatoes (with juice), Greek yogurt, minced garlic, and the remaining Italian seasoning, sea salt, crushed red pepper flakes, and black pepper in a large bowl.
Warm the remaining 1 cup chicken broth in the microwave for about 40 seconds. Gradually whisk this into the sauce mixture until smooth.
In a large 9x13 inch baking dish, combine the cooked pasta, seasoned chicken, sauce mixture, and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
Sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley. Cover the dish with aluminum foil sprayed with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
Bake the casserole covered for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake an additional 15 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbling.
Let the dish cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

To add more vegetables, consider including chopped spinach or mushrooms when mixing the casserole. Adjust the spice level by modifying the amount of red pepper flakes.