Rotel Chicken Spaghetti is a creamy, cheesy dish that’s packed with flavor! It combines tender chicken, spaghetti, and zesty Rotel tomatoes for a tasty meal everyone will love.
Every time I make this, I can’t help but smile. It’s so comforting and perfect for busy nights. Plus, who can resist that cheesy goodness? I might just keep it all to myself! 😋
Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: I love using traditional spaghetti, but feel free to swap it out for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if that’s what you prefer. Just cook according to package instructions.
Ro*Tel Diced Tomatoes: Ro*Tel adds a nice kick! If you can’t find it, any diced tomatoes can work. Just add some chopped jalapeños or a bit of hot sauce for spice.
Cream of Chicken Soup: For a lighter option, you can make a homemade version using chicken broth and a bit of flour or corn starch. Cream of mushroom soup is also a great swap if there’s a mushroom lover in your house.
Cooked Chicken: Leftover rotisserie chicken is my go-to here. You can also use shredded turkey or even canned chicken in a pinch.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is awesome, but if you want a different flavor, try pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for a milder taste. Just keep it shredded to melt easily!
How Can I Make Sure My Chicken Spaghetti Has the Right Flavor?
Flavor is key in any dish! Here are some tips to make sure your Rotel Chicken Spaghetti is bursting with taste:
- Season well: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper. Taste as you go, especially after adding the chicken broth.
- Saute your veggies: Before adding to the chicken mixture, briefly sauté the diced bell pepper and onion in the skillet. It enhances their flavor beautifully.
- Simmer properly: Letting the chicken mixture simmer for those few extra minutes really helps meld the flavors together.
How to Make Rotel Chicken Spaghetti
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can (10 oz) Ro*Tel diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 1/4 cup onion, diced
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal will take about 30 minutes total! You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the spaghetti and mixing the ingredients, followed by another 10-15 minutes heating everything on the stove. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Spaghetti:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Once done, drain the spaghetti in a colander and set it aside for now.
2. Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, undrained Ro*Tel diced tomatoes, cream of chicken soup, shredded cheddar cheese, diced bell pepper, diced onion, garlic powder, onion powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Pour in the chicken broth or water. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and looks yummy!
3. Heat the Mixture:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add your chicken mixture. Stir it often as it heats, allowing it to simmer for about 5 minutes until everything is warmed up nicely. Don’t forget to stir occasionally to keep it from sticking!
4. Combine with Spaghetti:
Once your chicken mixture is hot, it’s time to add the spaghetti! Gently toss the cooked spaghetti into the skillet, making sure every piece is coated with that delightful sauce.
5. Finish Cooking:
Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on medium heat, stirring occasionally until everything is hot and well mixed. You want that cheese to be melty and the flavors to blend perfectly!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve up your warm Rotel Chicken Spaghetti on plates, and if you’d like, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a touch of color. Enjoy this comforting, cheesy meal with family or friends!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti works great, you can substitute it with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, rotini, or even gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for your chosen pasta.
What Can I Substitute for Cream of Chicken Soup?
If you don’t have cream of chicken soup, you can use cream of mushroom soup or make a quick homemade version using heavy cream, chicken broth, and a bit of flour to thicken it. Mix equal parts of cream and broth until smooth and use it in the same quantity.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if it seems too thick.
