There’s something about creamy, cheesy pasta that just feels like a warm hug after a long day. If you’re looking for a simple, delicious dinner that the whole family will love, then this Chicken Spaghetti Recipe with Rotel is the one to try. Made with shredded chicken, Rotel tomatoes for a little kick, and plenty of cheese, this recipe is packed with flavor in every bite. It’s an ideal dish for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or potlucks because it’s easy to prepare, satisfying, and even reheats well for leftovers.
In this post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about making this dish, from step-by-step instructions to storage tips, plus extra information on how to make this recipe your own. You’ll find that it’s not only tasty but also a balanced choice when you want a filling, nutritious meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are many reasons this recipe will become a favorite in your household:
- Easy to Make: With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can have a tasty, satisfying meal ready in no time.
- Versatile Ingredients: The dish is highly customizable—you can use different types of cheese, substitute the pasta, or even adjust the spice level.
- Packed with Flavor: The Rotel tomatoes add a bit of spice and a lot of flavor, balancing perfectly with the creamy, cheesy sauce.
- Great for Meal Prep: This dish stores well and is perfect for leftovers, making it a great choice for meal prepping or freezing for later.
- Balanced Nutrition: It provides protein from the chicken, fiber from the pasta (especially if you choose whole-grain), and calcium from the cheese.
Nutrition Information
Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional value per serving (based on 6 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 |
| Protein | 25g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Calcium | 15% of Daily Value |
| Iron | 8% of Daily Value |
Ingredients
Servings: 6
Serving Size: 1 plate
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
- 2 cups of cooked chicken breast, either shredded or diced
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel tomatoes with green chilies (mild, medium, or hot)
- 8 oz spaghetti, cooked and drained
- 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so that it’s ready for baking when your ingredients are combined.Cook the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, sautéing for about 5 minutes or until they’re soft and fragrant. This step enhances the overall flavor of the dish and adds a slight crunch.Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked chicken, Rotel tomatoes, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, sautéed onions, and 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Add salt and pepper to taste. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined, creating a creamy mixture.Mix in the Pasta
Add the cooked and drained spaghetti to the mixture, ensuring the pasta is fully coated with the creamy sauce. This will make sure every bite is flavorful.Transfer to Baking Dish and Bake
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly and spread the mixture evenly in the dish. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.Serve and Enjoy
Allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for added color and flavor if desired.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Chicken Spaghetti Recipe with Rotel
- Choose Your Spice Level: You can customize the spice of the dish by choosing mild, medium, or hot Rotel tomatoes.
- Extra Veggies: Add chopped spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for a boost of nutrients without changing the flavor too much.
- Cheese Options: While cheddar works great, you could also try mozzarella or a mix of cheeses for a gooey texture.
- Make it Lighter: Opt for low-fat cheese and soups to reduce the overall fat and calorie content.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen over time, so it may taste even better the next day.
- Freezing: This recipe freezes wonderfully! You can freeze it in individual portions or as a whole for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat single servings in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, until warmed through.
How to Make This Recipe Your Own
There are plenty of ways to adapt this recipe to suit your taste preferences:
- Vegetable Add-Ins: Add chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to add more texture and nutrients.
- Spice It Up: To increase the heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or extra green chilies.
- Pasta Variations: Try using whole-wheat pasta for added fiber or gluten-free pasta if you have dietary restrictions.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh basil or oregano can be mixed into the sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
How to Serve Chicken Spaghetti Recipe with Rotel
This dish pairs wonderfully with sides that complement its rich, creamy flavors. Serve it with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or roasted asparagus to add some crunch and a burst of freshness. Garlic bread or a crusty loaf is another great option for sopping up every bit of the creamy sauce.
Why This Recipe is Both Comforting and Nutritious
This Chicken Spaghetti with Rotel offers a hearty balance of macronutrients. The chicken is a great source of lean protein, while the Rotel tomatoes provide a dose of antioxidants and vitamins. Adding in vegetables like bell peppers and spinach only enhances the dish’s nutritional profile, offering fiber, vitamin C, and iron. Plus, using whole-grain or vegetable-based pasta can add even more fiber and nutrients, helping you stay full and energized.
Conclusion
This Chicken Spaghetti Recipe with Rotel is a winning dish for many reasons: it’s easy, flavorful, versatile, and perfect for feeding a crowd. The combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and the kick from Rotel tomatoes makes it a memorable meal that’s sure to become a favorite. Best of all, it’s customizable to suit your taste, dietary needs, and pantry items you already have.
Whether you’re making this for a cozy family dinner, a potluck, or simply to enjoy leftovers, this recipe is sure to deliver on taste and comfort.
