If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food that’s easy, creamy, and packed with flavor, then you’ll love this chicken spaghetti recipe with Rotel. This southern-inspired dish combines tender chicken, spaghetti noodles, melted cheese, and a can of Rotel tomatoes with green chilies for a little zesty kick. It’s a family favorite that’s perfect for busy weeknights, Sunday dinners, or even potlucks.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know: from ingredients and step-by-step instructions to tips, variations, and make-ahead ideas. By the end, you’ll have the perfect recipe to keep in your weeknight rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Spaghetti with Rotel
- Simple Ingredients – Most of what you need is already in your pantry or fridge.
- One Dish Wonder – A full meal in itself—protein, carbs, and creamy sauce.
- Kid-Friendly – Cheesy, creamy pasta always wins over picky eaters.
- Customizable – Spice it up or tone it down based on your family’s taste.
- Freezer-Friendly – This dish reheats beautifully, making it a great meal-prep option.
What is Chicken Spaghetti with Rotel?
Chicken spaghetti is a southern casserole-style pasta dish that traditionally combines shredded chicken, cooked spaghetti, cream-based soups, cheese, and Rotel (a popular brand of canned diced tomatoes with green chilies). The Rotel gives the creamy casserole a tangy, slightly spicy kick that balances out the richness of the cheese and soup.
Think of it as mac and cheese’s Tex-Mex cousin—hearty, comforting, and packed with bold flavor.
Ingredients for Chicken Spaghetti with Rotel
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious recipe:
- 12 oz spaghetti noodles (uncooked)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup (or substitute cream of chicken soup)
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 small onion, finely diced (optional but adds flavor)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- ½ cup chicken broth (or the water you cooked pasta in)
- 2 tbsp butter or olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ tsp paprika or cayenne pepper (optional for extra spice)
Step-by-Step: How to Make Chicken Spaghetti with Rotel
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water (or use chicken broth).
Step 2: Sauté the Onion
In a large skillet, melt butter or heat olive oil. Sauté diced onions until soft and translucent. This step adds depth of flavor.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, stir in cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, Rotel tomatoes (with juices), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and a splash of chicken broth or pasta water. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Add Chicken and Pasta
Stir in shredded chicken, cooked spaghetti, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until everything is evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Transfer mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with remaining cheddar cheese and sprinkle with paprika or cayenne for a little color and flavor.
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions if desired.
Tips for the Best Chicken Spaghetti Recipe with Rotel
- Use Rotisserie Chicken – Saves time and adds rich flavor.
- Don’t Overcook Pasta – It will bake in the oven, so cook just until al dente.
- Cheese Variations – Try a mix of cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Velveeta for extra creaminess.
- Add Veggies – Bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can be stirred in for extra nutrition.
- Spice Level – Choose mild, original, or hot Rotel based on your family’s heat preference.
Variations of Chicken Spaghetti with Rotel
- Velveeta Chicken Spaghetti – Swap shredded cheddar for Velveeta for a creamy, melty texture.
- Chicken Spaghetti with Cream Cheese – Add 4 oz softened cream cheese for an extra rich sauce.
- Spicy Chicken Spaghetti – Use Hot Rotel and add jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
- Healthier Option – Use whole wheat pasta, light cream soups, and reduced-fat cheese.
- Chicken Spaghetti without Soup – Make your own sauce with cream, broth, and a little flour if you prefer not to use canned soups.
What to Serve with Chicken Spaghetti with Rotel
This hearty dish pairs perfectly with lighter sides:
- Garlic bread or Texas toast
- Green salad with vinaigrette
- Steamed broccoli or green beans
- Roasted zucchini or squash
Make-Ahead and Freezer Instructions
One of the best things about this chicken spaghetti recipe with Rotel is that it’s freezer-friendly.
- Make-Ahead – Assemble the casserole, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 2 days before baking.
- Freezer Option – Wrap tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed.
- Reheating Leftovers – Warm in the oven at 325°F until heated through, or microwave individual portions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use canned chicken?
Yes! While fresh or rotisserie chicken is best, canned chicken works in a pinch.
2. Can I make it without Rotel?
If you don’t have Rotel, use canned diced tomatoes plus a small can of green chilies.
3. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. This is a great dish for feeding a crowd. Simply double the ingredients and use two casserole dishes.
4. How do I keep it creamy when reheating?
Add a splash of milk, cream, or chicken broth when reheating to keep the pasta moist and creamy.
Nutrition (Approx. Per Serving)
(Based on 6 servings)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 25g
- Carbs: 32g
- Fat: 21g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 980mg
Final Thoughts
This chicken spaghetti recipe with Rotel is more than just a meal—it’s a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish that brings everyone to the table. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a potluck, or meal prepping for the week, this southern favorite never disappoints.
Give it a try, and you’ll see why it’s a go-to comfort food classic that stays in rotation year-round.