Cooking up a storm in the kitchen doesn’t have to be complicated, especially when you’ve got a recipe as foolproof and delicious as this Rotel Chicken Spaghetti. Combining the creamy, cheesy goodness of traditional chicken spaghetti with the bold, spicy kick of Rotel tomatoes, this dish is sure to become a weeknight favorite.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of creamy cheese and spicy Rotel tomatoes creates a perfect balance of flavors that’s hard to resist.
- Using pre-cooked chicken saves time without sacrificing taste, making this recipe a great option for busy nights.
- The spaghetti absorbs all the delicious flavors as it bakes, resulting in a dish that’s moist and flavorful throughout.
- It’s incredibly versatile, allowing for numerous variations to suit any taste or dietary preference.
- Leftovers (if you have any) taste even better the next day, making it a great make-ahead meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb spaghetti, broken into halves
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained
- 1 can (10.75 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Equipment Needed
- Large pot
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease your 9×13 inch baking dish. This ensures your spaghetti doesn’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze. While the oven heats, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for the spaghetti. Cooking the spaghetti in salted water is a simple trick to enhance its flavor from the inside out.
Cook the Spaghetti
Add the spaghetti to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the spaghetti well and return it to the pot. Tossing the spaghetti with a bit of the melted butter can prevent it from sticking together while you prepare the other ingredients.
Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Rotel tomatoes, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, remaining melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed. This mixture is the heart of your dish, so make sure it’s thoroughly combined for the best flavor distribution.
Combine and Bake
Add the drained spaghetti to the chicken mixture and toss to coat evenly. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Baking at 350°F for about 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden, will give you that perfect cheesy crust everyone loves.
Serve and Enjoy
Let the dish sit for about 5 minutes after baking to set slightly, making it easier to serve. This waiting period is tough, but it’s worth it for the perfect texture. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley or green onions if desired, and watch as it disappears before your eyes.
Tips and Tricks
For an even spicier kick, use the hot variety of Rotel tomatoes or add a diced jalapeño to the mix. If you’re short on time, a rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut that doesn’t skimp on flavor. To make this dish ahead of time, prepare it up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to eat, just pop it in the oven, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge. For a lighter version, substitute the cream of chicken soup with a low-fat version and reduce the amount of cheese. Lastly, if you’re a fan of crunchy toppings, sprinkle some crushed crackers or breadcrumbs over the cheese before baking for added texture.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Twist: Skip the chicken and add mushrooms and spinach for a hearty vegetarian version.
- Extra Cheesy: Mix in some cream cheese with the chicken mixture for an even creamier texture.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free spaghetti and ensure your cream of chicken soup is gluten-free.
- Protein Packed: Add black beans or corn for extra protein and fiber.
- Different Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for more heat or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze Rotel Chicken Spaghetti?
Absolutely! This dish freezes beautifully. Just prepare it up to the baking step, cover tightly, and freeze. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if necessary.
How can I make this dish less spicy?
To tone down the heat, use the mild version of Rotel tomatoes and omit any additional spicy ingredients like jalapeños. You can also increase the amount of cheese or add a dollop of sour cream when serving to help balance the spice.
What can I serve with Rotel Chicken Spaghetti?
This dish is pretty hearty on its own, but a simple green salad or steamed vegetables make great sides to round out the meal. Garlic bread is also a popular choice for soaking up any extra cheesy goodness.
Summary
This Rotel Chicken Spaghetti recipe is a creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. Easy to make and even easier to customize, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a winner.