Rotel Chicken Spaghetti is the ultimate comfort food, a gloriously creamy, wonderfully cheesy pasta dish that bursts with bold flavor. This easy-to-follow recipe transforms simple pantry staples into a show-stopping meal, perfect for busy weeknights when you need dinner on the table fast, or for casual gatherings where a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish is a must. Imagine tender, perfectly cooked spaghetti noodles entwined with succulent shredded chicken, all enveloped in a rich, melty cheese sauce enhanced with the zesty kick of Rotel tomatoes and green chilies. It’s a skillet meal that promises to be a hit every time, delivering hearty satisfaction with minimal fuss. And the best part? It’s just as delightful, if not more so, the next day, making it ideal for planned leftovers.
One of the most appealing aspects of creating this chicken spaghetti with Rotel is its incredible **adaptability and versatility**. Whether you’re working with what’s already in your kitchen or looking to customize for specific tastes, this recipe offers boundless possibilities. Feel free to experiment with different pasta shapes—fettuccine, penne, or even elbow macaroni can work beautifully. It’s a fantastic way to utilize leftover roasted chicken or turkey, making meal prep even quicker. You can also sneak in extra vegetables like corn, peas, or spinach for added color, texture, and nutritional value. The unique blend of diced tomatoes and green chilies in Rotel provides a perfectly balanced tanginess and subtle heat that elevates this dish far beyond ordinary pasta, creating a truly memorable flavor profile that keeps everyone coming back for more.
For those seeking a **delicious and budget-friendly dinner** solution that can be whipped up in record time, this Rotel chicken spaghetti recipe is a game-changer. It ticks all the boxes: economical ingredients, minimal preparation, and a quick cooking process make it an ideal choice for busy households. Furthermore, it shines as a make-ahead option, allowing you to prepare it in advance and simply bake it when needed. Its robust nature makes it an excellent candidate for potlucks and gatherings, as it travels well and reheats beautifully without losing its creamy texture or rich flavor. This makes it perfect for feeding a hungry crowd or simplifying your weekly meal planning, ensuring you have wholesome, delicious meals ready to go.
Chicken Spaghetti with Rotel Video Tutorial
Craving a visual guide? Watch our step-by-step video tutorial to see just how simple and satisfying it is to bring this incredible Rotel Chicken Spaghetti to life in your own kitchen! From preparing your ingredients to achieving that perfect creamy, cheesy finish, our video will walk you through every moment, ensuring your dish is a delicious success. Perfect for visual learners and anyone looking to boost their confidence in the kitchen.
Why This Rotel Chicken Spaghetti Will Be Your New Favorite
This isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s a culinary experience designed for maximum flavor and minimal effort. Here’s why our Rotel Chicken Spaghetti stands out and why you’ll fall in love with it:
- Unbeatable One-Pot Simplicity
Say goodbye to a sink full of dishes! This recipe is a true kitchen hero, as the sauce, chicken, and pasta all come together harmoniously in a single skillet or large pot. This significantly cuts down on cleanup time, allowing you to spend less time scrubbing and more time enjoying your delicious meal and the company of your loved ones. It’s the perfect solution for busy evenings when you want a homemade dinner without the fuss. - Incredibly Convenient and Time-Saving
We understand that time is precious, which is why this recipe is engineered for efficiency. By utilizing pre-cooked shredded chicken, such as a store-bought rotisserie chicken or leftover poultry, you bypass a major prep step. Rotisserie chicken, with its tender texture and perfectly seasoned flavor, seamlessly integrates into the dish, adding richness without extra effort. This smart approach means you can have a flavorful, hearty dinner on the table in under 25 minutes, making it an ideal choice for impromptu meals or hectic schedules. - A Symphony of Bold, Irresistible Flavors
Prepare your taste buds for an explosion of savory goodness! This Rotel Chicken Spaghetti recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, delivering a rich, cheesy, and deeply satisfying experience. The magic lies in the luxurious combination of Rotel tomatoes and green chilies, which infuse the dish with a vibrant, zesty punch. Paired with creamy cream cheese, mild Colby Jack, and a carefully selected blend of seasonings, it creates an unparalleled creamy sauce that generously coats every strand of pasta. Add in the tender shredded chicken and perfectly sautéed vegetables, and you have a wholesome, hearty meal that’s guaranteed to satisfy even the most discerning palates and win over even the pickiest eaters.
If you adore the dynamic flavor of Rotel as much as we do, you simply must explore these other fantastic recipes: our incredibly creamy Rotel Velveeta dip, the hearty Tex Mex Bisquick breakfast casserole, and the comforting beefy Velveeta cheese soup. Each one showcases Rotel’s versatility!
Essential Ingredient Notes and Smart Substitutions
Crafting the perfect Rotel Chicken Spaghetti begins with understanding each ingredient and the flexibility you have to adapt the recipe to your pantry and preferences. Here’s a breakdown of the key components:
- Spaghetti Noodles: While classic spaghetti noodles provide that iconic texture and hold the sauce beautifully, this recipe is quite forgiving. Feel free to substitute with other long pastas like fettuccine or linguine, or opt for shorter shapes such as penne, rotini, or even elbow macaroni. For dietary needs, a good quality gluten-free pasta works just as well.
- Red Bell Pepper: This ingredient adds a delightful sweetness and a vibrant pop of color to the dish. If red isn’t available, green bell peppers offer a slightly more savory, earthy flavor, while yellow or orange bell peppers provide similar sweetness.
- Yellow Onion: Forms the aromatic foundation of our sauce, contributing a sweet and savory depth. White or red onions can be used interchangeably, though red onions might add a slightly sharper flavor.
- Avocado Oil: A neutral, high-smoke-point oil ideal for sautéing. Any preferred cooking oil, such as olive oil, vegetable oil, or canola oil, can be used as a suitable substitute.
- Garlic: The aromatic heart of many savory dishes, minced fresh garlic delivers an undeniable pungent flavor. In a pinch, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder can replace about 3 fresh cloves.
- Rotel (Diced Tomatoes and Green Chilies): This is our secret weapon for a zesty, slightly spicy kick. Opt for the original (not drained) to retain all the flavorful juices. If Rotel isn’t available, combine a can of diced tomatoes with a small can of mild green chilies for a similar profile.
- Colby Jack Cheese: Known for its mild flavor and excellent melting capabilities, Colby Jack creates a wonderfully creamy and gooey texture. Sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a Mexican blend can be swapped in for varied cheesy notes.
- Milk and Heavy Cream: The harmonious duo that forms the lusciously creamy base of our sauce. For a slightly lighter version, use half-and-half, evaporated milk, or even unsweetened almond milk, though the richness will be somewhat reduced.
- Seasonings (Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Italian Seasoning, Paprika, Red Pepper Flakes, Black Pepper, Kosher Salt): This blend is carefully chosen to build layers of flavor. Adjust the quantities to suit your taste preferences. For an extra punch of heat, don’t hesitate to increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of chili powder.
- Cream Cheese: The unsung hero for creating that thick, velvety smooth sauce. Ensure it’s at room temperature for easy blending. Mascarpone cheese can serve as a richer, slightly sweeter alternative if you’re feeling indulgent.
- Shredded Cooked Chicken: The beauty of this recipe lies in its ease, and pre-cooked shredded chicken (like from a rotisserie chicken) makes it incredibly fast. Leftover cooked chicken or turkey also works perfectly. If you need to cook chicken from scratch, our Instant Pot shredded chicken recipe is a quick and efficient method.
- Fresh Parsley: A bright, herbaceous garnish that adds freshness and a pop of color. Fresh cilantro or chives can offer a different but equally pleasant finish.
Exciting Recipe Variations to Try
Get creative in the kitchen with these delicious twists on the classic Rotel Chicken Spaghetti:
- Spicy Rotel Chicken Spaghetti: For those who love a fiery kick, incorporate finely diced jalapeños (with or without seeds) or increase the amount of red pepper flakes. A dash of cayenne pepper can also amplify the heat.
- Vegetarian Version: Easily transform this into a meatless marvel by replacing the chicken with sautéed mushrooms (cremini or button), roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or a hearty blend of your favorite roasted vegetables. Consider adding a can of drained black beans or corn for extra substance.
- Mexican-Style Chicken Spaghetti: Infuse a Southwestern flair by swapping Colby Jack cheese with a robust Mexican cheese blend. Add a sprinkle of ground cumin and a pinch of smoked paprika to the sauce, and finish with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro before serving.
- Ultra-Creamier Sauce: For an incredibly smooth and decadent sauce, substitute the cream cheese with an equal amount of Velveeta cheese. This will create a truly luxurious, melt-in-your-mouth texture. You can also add more shredded cheddar cheese for an even cheesier experience.
- Low-Carb Option: Make this dish keto-friendly by replacing traditional pasta with spiralized zucchini noodles (zoodles) or spaghetti squash. Ensure to properly drain any excess moisture from these alternatives to prevent a watery sauce.
We’re big fans of easy one-pot meals, and we bet you are too! Here are a few more simple recipes to keep your evening dinners delightful and your cleanup minimal: our creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta and these wonderfully convenient sheet pan chicken thighs.
Essential Equipment for Your Kitchen
You don’t need a professional kitchen to make this incredible dish. These are the basic tools that will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable:
- Cutting Board: Essential for safely and efficiently chopping your vegetables.
- Sharp Knife: A good quality knife makes all the difference for precise and quick prep work.
- Large Skillet or Dutch Oven: The star of our one-pot show! Choose a large, oven-safe skillet or a Dutch oven that can easily accommodate all ingredients and transition from stovetop to broiler.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups: Crucial for accurate ingredient measurements, ensuring perfect flavor balance every time.
- Sturdy Spatula or Wooden Spoon: For stirring, sautéing, and mixing all those delicious components.
How to Create Your Perfect Rotel Chicken Spaghetti
Follow these simple steps to bring this comforting and flavor-packed dish to your table:
- Prepare Your Oven and Pasta.
Begin by preheating your oven to broil on high (typically 500°F or 260°C). While the oven preheats, cook your spaghetti according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes, giving you time to start on the sauce. - Sauté the Aromatic Vegetables.
In your large, oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, heat the avocado oil over medium heat. Add the chopped red bell pepper and yellow onion. Sauté for about 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and become fragrant. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for just 1 more minute until it releases its aroma, being careful not to burn it. - Craft the Creamy, Zesty Sauce.
Into the skillet with the sautéed vegetables, pour in the undrained Rotel (diced tomatoes and green chilies). Stir in 1 cup of the Colby Jack cheese, the milk, heavy cream, and your blend of seasonings (garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, red pepper flakes, black pepper, and coarse kosher salt). Stir continuously for about 2 minutes, allowing the cheese to fully melt and the sauce to begin bubbling gently.
- Achieve Perfect Creaminess with Cream Cheese.
Add the room-temperature cream cheese to the simmering sauce. Continue to stir vigorously for 2-3 minutes, allowing the cream cheese to fully melt and integrate. This step is key to developing that rich, thick, and wonderfully smooth texture that defines Rotel Chicken Spaghetti.
- Combine Chicken and Pasta for a Hearty Mix.
Once your sauce is perfectly smooth, gently stir in the shredded cooked chicken. Mix until the chicken is well incorporated and warmed through. Next, add the drained cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Using tongs or a large spoon, toss everything together thoroughly, ensuring every strand of pasta and piece of chicken is lovingly coated in the creamy, flavorful sauce. - A Cheesy Finish and Broil to Perfection.
Evenly sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of Colby Jack cheese over the top of the spaghetti mixture in the skillet. Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven (under the broiler). Broil for 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye on it, until the cheese is melted, golden brown, and delightfully bubbly. This step adds a beautiful crust and intensifies the cheesy goodness.
- Garnish and Indulge:
Carefully remove the skillet from the oven. For a beautiful presentation and a burst of fresh flavor, generously sprinkle the top with chopped fresh parsley. If you like a little extra warmth, a final dash of red pepper flakes can be added. Serve your glorious Rotel chicken spaghetti warm, directly from the skillet, and prepare for rave reviews!
Spaghetti-based dinners are universally loved and incredibly family-friendly! If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out our delightful butter garlic shrimp spaghetti for another quick and tasty pasta adventure.
Elevate Your Meal: Inspired Serving Suggestions
This irresistible Rotel Chicken Spaghetti is a wonderfully versatile dish that shines on its own but also pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and beverages to create a complete and memorable meal. Here are some ideas to enhance your dining experience:
- Crusty Bread: A must-have! Serve this comforting casserole alongside warm, buttery garlic bread or simple crusty sourdough. It’s perfect for soaking up every last drop of the rich, creamy sauce.
- Fresh Salad: To balance the richness of the pasta, offer a light and crisp green salad. A refreshing kale salad with tahini dressing, a classic Caesar, or a simple garden salad with a vinaigrette would be excellent choices.
- Roasted Vegetables: Add a healthy and colorful element with a side of oven-roasted vegetables. Asparagus, broccoli, green beans, or carrots tossed with olive oil, salt, and pepper and roasted until tender-crisp make a fantastic accompaniment.
- Beverage Pairings: For a non-alcoholic option, chilled iced tea or sparkling lemonade provides a refreshing contrast. If you prefer wine, a light-bodied white such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio beautifully complements the creamy, zesty flavors of the dish.
- Dessert: Conclude your meal on a sweet note with something light and fruity. A simple fruit salad, some fresh berries, or a slice of zesty braided lemon bread would be a delightful finish.
🎯 Pro Tip: Quick Chicken Shredding Hack
Here’s a fantastic kitchen hack that will revolutionize your poultry prep! You can effortlessly shred cooked, boneless poultry, like chicken breasts or thighs, in approximately 15 seconds using your stand mixer. Simply place the cooked, boneless chicken into your mixing bowl. Attach the paddle attachment (or wire beater for slightly finer shreds), set the mixer to low speed, and let it do all the hard work for you. No more tedious, hand-cramping shredding!
Frequently Asked Questions About Rotel Chicken Spaghetti
Here are answers to some common questions about making and enjoying this delicious dish:
Absolutely! This Rotel Chicken Spaghetti is a fantastic make-ahead meal. You can assemble the entire dish up to the broiling step. Simply cover it tightly with aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, uncover and broil as directed, ensuring it heats through completely and the cheese is beautifully golden and bubbly.
Yes, this recipe freezes well! Once cooked and cooled, transfer the chicken spaghetti to an airtight, freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the dish overnight in the refrigerator, then warm gently in the microwave or oven until heated through.
No Rotel? No problem! You can easily create a similar flavor profile by combining a can of regular diced tomatoes (undrained) with a small can of mild green chilies. This substitution will provide that signature zesty and mildly spicy kick that Rotel delivers.
Certainly! While the cream cheese and heavy cream provide a rich base, you have options. For a different flavor, you can replace the cream cheese and heavy cream with a can of cream of chicken soup or cream of mushroom soup for a richer, earthier undertone. If you’d prefer a lighter version, consider using a mixture of chicken broth thickened slightly with a cornstarch slurry, combined with a touch of milk or light cream. Just simmer briefly to thicken before incorporating into the dish.
Explore More Delicious Dinner Recipes…
- Baked Barbecue Chicken Tenders in Oven
- Wholesome Ground Turkey and Zucchini Meatballs
- Speedy Chili Mac and Cheese in the Instant Pot
- Simple One-Pot Marinara Meatball Recipe
If you’ve tried this mouthwatering Rotel Chicken Spaghetti recipe or any other delightful recipe on our website, we would absolutely love to hear from you! Please consider leaving a 🌟 star rating and sharing your experience in the 📝 comments section below. Your feedback helps us grow and inspires others to cook with confidence. Thank you for visiting and happy cooking!
Rotel Chicken Spaghetti
By Renae Gerhardstein
Whip up this easy Rotel chicken spaghetti for a creamy, cheesy dinner packed with irresistible flavor. It’s a quick-to-make comfort food favorite the whole family will enjoy!
Pin Recipe
Equipment
- cutting board
- knife
- large skillet
- measuring spoons and cups
Ingredients
- 8 ounce spaghetti (cooked and drained; substitute with fettuccine, penne, or gluten-free pasta if needed)
- 1 cup red bell pepper (chopped; swap with green or yellow bell peppers for a slightly different flavor)
- ½ cup chopped yellow onion (white or red onion works as an alternative)
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil (or use your preferred cooking oil as a substitute)
- 3 garlic cloves minced (garlic powder can be used if necessary)
- 10 ounces Rotel / diced tomatoes and green chilies (not drained; substitute with diced tomatoes and a can of green chilies if needed)
- 2 cups Colby Jack cheese (divided; cheddar or Monterey Jack can be substituted)
- 1 cup milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ⅛ teaspoon coarse kosher salt
- 4 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
- 1 pound (2 cups) shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken or our shredded chicken recipe are great options)
- 3 tablespoons parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to broil on high (500°F / 260°C).
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente (approximately 10 minutes). Drain and set aside. While pasta cooks, proceed with the next steps.
- In a large, oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, heat avocado oil over medium heat. Add chopped red bell pepper and yellow onion. Sauté for 4 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
- Add undrained Rotel, 1 cup of Colby Jack cheese, milk, heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, red pepper flakes, black pepper, and kosher salt to the skillet. Stir until well combined and cook for 2 minutes, or until the cheese has melted into a smooth sauce.
- Add room-temperature cream cheese to the sauce. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce mixture is completely smooth and thick.
- Stir in the shredded cooked chicken until heated through. Then, add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of Colby Jack cheese evenly over the top of the spaghetti. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and broil for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
- Garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley and additional red pepper flakes, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Rotel Chicken Spaghetti!
Video
Notes
- Pro Tip: Shred cooked, boneless poultry in just 15 seconds using a stand mixer with the paddle attachment on low speed.
Recipe Variations:
- Spicy Rotel Chicken Spaghetti: Add diced jalapeños or more red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or your favorite roasted vegetables.
- Mexican-Style Chicken Spaghetti: Swap Colby Jack cheese with a Mexican cheese blend and add a sprinkle of ground cumin.
- Creamier Sauce: Use Velveeta instead of cream cheese for an ultra-smooth texture and an even cheesier result.
Storing Instructions:
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To freeze, transfer cooled spaghetti to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Make-Ahead Instructions:
- Assemble the dish up to the broiling step, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Broil just before serving for a fresh-baked finish.
Nutrition
Serving: 1 serving | Calories: 657 kcal | Carbohydrates: 39g | Protein: 38g | Fat: 39g | Saturated Fat: 20g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 13g | Cholesterol: 142mg | Sodium: 463mg | Potassium: 607mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 2127IU | Vitamin C: 41mg | Calcium: 429mg | Iron: 3mg
