Creamy Rotel Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
A comforting, cheesy casserole with a Tex‑Mex twist — perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Introduction
This casserole is the ultimate comfort food: tender spaghetti, juicy shredded chicken, and the bold flavor of Rotel tomatoes with green chilies, all baked together in a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s hearty, flavorful, and easy to make with pantry staples. Perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, this dish is guaranteed to be a crowd‑pleaser.
Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
8 oz spaghetti, cooked and drained
2 cups cooked shredded chicken
1 can (10 oz) Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies), drained
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
½ cup chicken broth (optional, for creamier sauce)
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional garnish: fresh parsley or sliced green onions
Step‑by‑Step Instructions
Preheat Oven: Heat to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 baking dish.
Cook Pasta: Boil spaghetti until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Mix Sauce: In a large bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, sour cream, Rotel, 1 ½ cups cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth. Add chicken broth if you prefer a looser sauce.
Add Chicken & Pasta: Stir in shredded chicken and cooked spaghetti until evenly coated.
Bake: Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish. Sprinkle remaining ½ cup cheddar on top.
Cook: Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Serve: Rest 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley or green onions if desired.
Prep & Cook Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6–8
Tips for Success
Use rotisserie chicken for convenience and extra flavor.
Drain Rotel well to avoid excess liquid.
For extra spice, add jalapeños or a dash of cayenne.
Make ahead: assemble casserole, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Variations
Tex‑Mex Style: Add black beans, corn, or taco seasoning.
Cheese Lovers: Mix cheddar with Monterey Jack or pepper jack.
Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for sautéed mushrooms and zucchini.
Kid‑Friendly: Use mild Rotel and extra cheese for a softer flavor.
Serving Ideas
Pair with garlic bread and a crisp salad.
Serve with roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Offer hot sauce or salsa on the side for spice lovers.
Storytelling Element
Imagine scooping into a bubbling casserole dish, the cheese stretching as you serve. The spaghetti is creamy, the chicken tender, and the Rotel adds just the right kick. It’s the kind of dish that feels nostalgic yet exciting — a comfort food classic with a Tex‑Mex twist.
Conclusion
This Creamy Rotel Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is easy, flavorful, and perfect for feeding a crowd. With its creamy sauce, cheesy topping, and bold Rotel flavor, it’s destined to become a family favorite.