Zesty Chicken Spaghetti Bake

Welcome to the ultimate guide for a family-favorite meal that promises warmth, flavor, and pure comfort: Chicken Spaghetti with Rotel and Cheddar Cheese. This beloved dish marries tender spaghetti with succulent chunks of chicken, all bathed in a rich, creamy, and irresistibly cheesy sauce infused with the perfect hint of spice from Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies. It’s a hearty dinner that guarantees smiles around the table and requests for seconds, proving that some of the best meals are both simple and profoundly satisfying.

Imagine a bubbling casserole, fresh from the oven, where every strand of spaghetti is coated in a luscious cheddar sauce, dotted with savory chicken, and brightened by the zesty kick of Rotel. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that brings families together, perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or even a cozy weekend feast. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is designed for ease and maximum flavor, making it an unforgettable addition to your recipe collection.

Next time you’re craving something equally delicious and creamy, try this creamy pasta bake.

Don’t forget to save this incredible recipe! You can bookmark this page or print out the recipe card below for easy access anytime you need a comforting meal idea.

This dish is our absolute go-to pasta casserole, loved by kids and adults alike. There’s something truly special about watching everyone at the dinner table enthusiastically gobble it down, often asking for more. The unforgettable combination of perfectly cooked pasta and tender chicken, all immersed in a heavenly cheesy sauce that clings to each strand of spaghetti, makes this one sensational meal that always pleases and never disappoints. It’s the kind of dish that becomes a cherished tradition, passed down through generations.

Why This Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a Must-Try

There are countless reasons why this particular chicken spaghetti recipe stands out as a true culinary gem:

• **Kid-Friendly & Feeds a Crowd:** This recipe is a lifesaver for families, easily scaled to feed a large gathering or provide delicious leftovers. Its mild yet flavorful profile is a hit with even the pickiest eaters.
• **Even Better the Next Day:** Unlike some dishes, this cheesy chicken spaghetti with Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies truly shines as leftovers, making it perfect for meal prepping and enjoying throughout the week. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, enhancing its depth.
• **Quick, Easy, and Cheesy Goodness:** With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, this casserole comes together effortlessly, proving that incredible flavor doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s packed with an undeniable cheesy richness that satisfies every craving.
• **The Ultimate Make-Ahead Comfort Food:** As a classic comfort dish, it’s ideal for preparing in advance. Whether you’re planning for a busy week, a potluck, or want to share a heartwarming meal with a friend, this recipe is your perfect companion.
• **Versatile and Adaptable:** Easily customize this casserole to suit your taste, making it a flexible staple in your kitchen.

Rotel Chicken Spaghetti isn’t just a favorite for kids and adults; it’s a testament to the power of simple, wholesome ingredients combined to create something extraordinary. This delicious casserole is fantastic fresh, but also a stellar make-ahead option. You can even double the recipe, assemble one in an aluminum foil pan, wrap it tightly, and freeze it for a future busy day or to gift to a loved one. This cheesy chicken spaghetti truly embodies pure comfort food, making it an excellent choice any day of the week, offering both convenience and soul-satisfying taste.

Ingredients for Your Chicken Spaghetti Masterpiece

Crafting this delightful chicken spaghetti with Rotel and cheddar cheese begins with a selection of readily available ingredients that, when combined, create a symphony of flavors and textures. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the harmonious blend of each component.

Ingredient Notes and Tips

Understanding the role of each ingredient will help you achieve the best possible results and empower you to make informed substitutions if needed:

• **Spaghetti:** For this recipe, the spaghetti is added uncooked directly into the skillet, where it will absorb the rich sauce as it cooks, infusing every strand with flavor. Breaking the spaghetti in half makes it easier to manage in the skillet and serve.
• **Cooked Chicken:** This is an excellent recipe for utilizing leftover chicken! Dice or shred any pre-cooked chicken, such as grilled chicken breasts, baked chicken thighs, or a store-bought rotisserie chicken. This not only saves time but also adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
• **Cream of Chicken Soup:** This forms the luscious, creamy base of your sauce. Its condensed nature provides body and a savory chicken flavor. For a variation, cream of mushroom soup can be substituted, or you can opt for a homemade béchamel or Alfredo sauce for an even richer, from-scratch experience.
• **Cream Cheese:** The secret ingredient for unparalleled creaminess! Cream cheese melts beautifully into the sauce, adding a smooth, tangy richness that elevates the dish to a gourmet level.
• **Milk:** Used to thin out the condensed soup and cream cheese, creating the perfect consistency for your sauce and helping the spaghetti cook evenly. Whole milk is recommended for maximum richness, but 2% milk can also be used.
• **Italian Seasoning:** A classic blend of herbs like oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary, Italian seasoning provides aromatic depth and a distinctly savory profile that complements pasta and chicken perfectly. Adjust to your preference or add fresh herbs like parsley or oregano for a vibrant twist.
• **Shredded Cheddar Cheese:** The star of the cheesy goodness! Freshly shredded sharp or mild cheddar cheese melts into a gooey, savory topping that beautifully binds the casserole together. Its robust flavor goes amazingly well with spaghetti and Rotel.
• **Hot Water:** Essential for cooking the uncooked spaghetti directly in the sauce. The hot water helps to kickstart the cooking process and ensures the pasta absorbs all the wonderful flavors of the sauce.
• **RoTel Tomatoes:** These diced tomatoes with green chilies are the signature ingredient that gives this chicken spaghetti its characteristic zesty flavor and a mild, pleasant heat. Using them undrained ensures all the juices and flavors are incorporated into the sauce. If unavailable, you can substitute with a can of plain diced tomatoes and a small can of diced green chilies.

Before You Begin: Essential Tools for Success

Having the right tools on hand will make the preparation of your chicken spaghetti casserole even smoother and more enjoyable. You don’t need a lot of fancy equipment for this recipe, just a few kitchen staples.

Note: This section may contain affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them, at no extra cost to you.

• **Large Skillet (Oven-Safe Preferred):** A deep, spacious skillet is crucial for cooking the sauce and spaghetti. An oven-safe skillet (like a cast iron skillet or an enameled cast iron Dutch oven) is a huge bonus, allowing you to transfer the dish directly from stovetop to oven for melting the cheese, minimizing cleanup.
• **Whisk:** For thoroughly combining the creamy sauce ingredients, ensuring a smooth, lump-free base.
• **Wooden Spoon or Spatula:** Ideal for stirring the spaghetti and chicken, preventing sticking, and gently combining ingredients.
• **9×13 Inch Casserole Dish (Optional):** If your skillet isn’t oven-safe, a standard 9×13 inch baking dish will be needed to finish the casserole in the oven.

Don’t forget to check out my Amazon storefront for some of my favorite kitchen products and culinary essentials!

Step by Step: Instructions for Creamy Chicken Spaghetti

Follow these detailed steps to create a show-stopping chicken spaghetti casserole that your family will adore. The beauty of this recipe is its straightforward approach, allowing you to achieve maximum flavor with minimal fuss.

1. **Preheat Oven:** Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s ready when your spaghetti mixture is prepared for the final cheesy bake.
2. **Combine Sauce Base:** In a deep, large skillet, combine the two cans of cream of chicken soup, the undrained can of Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, milk, hot water, cream cheese, and Italian seasoning.
3. **Heat and Whisk:** Place the skillet over medium-high heat. Whisk all the ingredients together thoroughly until the cream cheese has fully melted and the mixture is smooth and well combined. Continue whisking until it just begins to simmer.
4. **Add Spaghetti and Cook:** Once the sauce starts to boil, carefully add the uncooked spaghetti noodles (broken in half for easier handling). Use the back of a spoon to gently press the spaghetti down, ensuring it is fully submerged in the liquid.
5. **Cover and Simmer:** Reduce the heat to medium, cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid, and let it cook for 15 minutes. This allows the spaghetti to absorb the flavorful sauce and cook until tender.

6. **Uncover and Stir:** After 15 minutes, remove the lid. Stir the spaghetti gently with a spoon, breaking apart any strands that may have stuck together. This ensures even cooking and prevents clumps.
7. **Add Chicken and Finish Cooking:** Stir in your diced or shredded cooked chicken. Cover the skillet again and continue to cook for another 5 minutes, or until the pasta reaches an al dente texture – tender but with a slight bite.
8. **Final Stir:** Uncover the skillet and give the mixture one last quick stir to ensure everything is evenly distributed and coated in the creamy sauce.

9. **Melt the Cheese (Skillet Method):** If your skillet is oven-safe, generously sprinkle 2-3 cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the chicken spaghetti mixture. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly.
10. **Melt the Cheese (Casserole Dish Method):** If your skillet is not oven-safe, lightly spray a 9×13 inch casserole dish with cooking oil or non-stick spray. Pour the chicken spaghetti mixture into the prepared dish. Sprinkle the top with 2-3 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake until the cheese is melted and lightly golden, approximately 5-10 minutes.

Serve immediately and enjoy this incredibly creamy, cheesy, and satisfying Chicken Spaghetti with Rotel!

Adaptable Recipe – Make It Your Own with Creative Variations!

One of the best aspects of this chicken spaghetti recipe is its incredible versatility. Feel free to unleash your culinary creativity and customize it to suit your family’s preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Here are some fantastic ways to make this dish uniquely yours:

• **Protein Power-Ups:** While chicken is classic, don’t hesitate to experiment! Switch out the cooked chicken for other proteins like shredded turkey (perfect for Thanksgiving leftovers), cooked ground beef or turkey, or even diced ham. Cooked shrimp can also be a delicious, quick-cooking alternative.
• **Veggie Boost:** Enhance the nutritional value and add extra flavor by incorporating your favorite vegetables. Diced bell peppers (red, green, or yellow), sautéed onions, mushrooms, frozen peas, corn, or even a handful of fresh spinach can be stirred in during the last few minutes of cooking.
• **Cheese Fantasia:** Cheddar cheese is a staple, but the cheese possibilities are endless! Swap out the cheddar for another melty cheese you love best, such as Monterey Jack for a milder flavor, Colby Jack for a blend, a Mexican cheese blend for more spice, or even Velveeta for an ultra-creamy, classic casserole texture. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top just before serving also adds a nice salty bite.
• **Spice It Up (or Down):** If you prefer more heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce, or use a “hot” variety of Rotel tomatoes. For a milder flavor, rinse the green chilies from the Rotel or use plain diced tomatoes and add a tiny amount of mild green chilies.
• **Meatless Marvel:** For a vegetarian option, simply leave the chicken out entirely! You can add extra vegetables like sautéed zucchini, eggplant, or beans to make it a hearty meatless meal. Consider using cream of mushroom soup as your base for a richer, earthy flavor.
• **Pasta Perfection:** While spaghetti or linguine are excellent choices as they hold the cheesy sauce beautifully, feel free to use your favorite pasta shape. Penne, rotini, or even elbow macaroni can work wonderfully in this casserole, offering a different texture and mouthfeel.

My Notes: Pro Tips and Smart Substitutions

Making delicious food often involves knowing a few tricks and having alternative options. Here are some of my top notes to help you make this chicken spaghetti casserole the best it can be:

• **Cream Soup Alternatives:** If you prefer not to use canned cream of chicken soup, you can easily make your own creamy base. A homemade Alfredo sauce or a simple roux-based béchamel will work beautifully. When substituting, use boiling chicken broth instead of hot water to maintain that savory depth.
• **Rotel Substitutions:** If canned Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies aren’t available where you live, or you simply prefer a fresh approach, you can create a similar flavor profile. Add about ¼ cup of finely diced green bell pepper and ½ cup of finely diced fresh tomatoes. You can also use a can of regular diced tomatoes (drained or undrained depending on desired liquid) in place of the Rotel with chilies, and then add a pinch of chili powder or cayenne for a subtle kick if desired.
• **Cheese Choices:** While cheddar cheese offers a classic comfort food flavor, feel free to experiment with other cheeses. Mozzarella cheese is an excellent alternative, providing a stretchier, milder melt. Pepper Jack can be used for extra spice, or a blend of your favorite cheeses for complex flavor.
• **Pasta Preferences:** I find that long, thin pasta like spaghetti or linguine are the best choices for this dish, as their strands are perfectly designed to cling to the creamy, cheesy sauce with each bite, ensuring every forkful is bursting with flavor. However, if you have other pasta shapes on hand, feel free to use them; the flavor will still be fantastic!
• **Don’t Overcook Pasta:** Since the spaghetti cooks directly in the sauce, keep an eye on it to prevent it from becoming mushy. The goal is a perfect al dente texture that will hold up in the casserole.
• **Fresh Herbs for Garnish:** A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or cilantro just before serving can add a pop of color and freshness.

💬 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do you love making cheesy, spicy recipes that warm you from the inside out? If so, you will definitely want to add this crockpot buffalo chicken mac and cheese to your upcoming meal plan for another unforgettable flavor experience!

Mastering the Make Ahead Meal

Chicken spaghetti with Rotel is undeniably the perfect make-ahead meal, saving you precious time on busy days while still delivering incredible flavor. Its robust nature means it holds up beautifully when prepared in advance, making it a fantastic option for meal prep, entertaining, or simply ensuring a stress-free dinner.

• **Preparation for Make-Ahead:** You can prepare the entire casserole up until the point where you would normally place it in the oven to melt the cheese. Once the chicken and spaghetti are combined with the sauce in your oven-safe dish (or transfer to a casserole dish), allow it to cool completely to room temperature.
• **Refrigeration:** Once cooled, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap, then with aluminum foil to prevent air exposure. Store it in your refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When ready to serve, remove the plastic wrap, sprinkle with cheese, and bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to account for reheating from a cold state.
• **Freezing for Later:** For longer storage, this casserole is a dream for freezing. Prepare it as above, but without sprinkling the cheese on top. Once completely cooled, cover the dish first with plastic wrap, then double-wrap it tightly with aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. Label with the date. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking, then add cheese and bake until heated through and bubbly.

What to Serve with Spaghetti Chicken: Perfect Pairings

While Chicken Spaghetti with Rotel is a complete meal in itself, pairing it with complementary side dishes can elevate your dining experience and create a well-rounded feast. Balance the richness of the pasta with fresh greens or lean into the comfort food theme with some indulgent additions.

• **Fresh Green Sides:** I’d strongly urge you to add a side of vibrant greens. A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast. Alternatively, simple roasted or steamed vegetables work wonderfully. Consider Air Fryer Frozen Broccoli, Frozen Asparagus, or a medley of Mediterranean Roasted Vegetables for a healthy and flavorful accompaniment.
• **Garlic Bread Goodness:** If you’re truly going all out and embracing the comfort food vibe, a side of warm, buttery garlic bread is absolutely essential for soaking up every last bit of that delicious sauce. Try making Air Fryer Garlic Bread for a quick and easy option. Or, if you want to completely blow the comfort food meter, add a side of decadent Garlic Bread Pizza – a truly indulgent treat!

Try One of These Cozy Desserts for a Sweet Ending

No comforting meal is truly complete without a delightful dessert. Here are some cozy and irresistible options to perfectly round off your Chicken Spaghetti feast:

• Classic Tiramisu Recipe (Without Alcohol)
• Cinnamon Bread Pudding Recipe
• Blueberry Lemon Bars
• Black Forest Brownies

Storage and Reheating Tips for Leftovers

One of the many benefits of this chicken spaghetti casserole is how wonderfully it stores and reheats, making it perfect for enjoying delicious leftovers for days to come or prepping meals in advance.

**Refrigerate:** To store leftover chicken spaghetti, allow it to cool completely to room temperature first. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for 3-4 days. This ensures its freshness and prevents bacterial growth.

**Freeze:** This casserole is an excellent candidate for freezing, ideal for future quick meals. Once the casserole has cooled completely, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, then add a double layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Label the container with the date. It can be safely stored in your freezer for up to 4 months.

**Reheat:**

* **From Frozen:** Thaw the frozen casserole in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, remove the plastic wrap. Cover the dish with foil and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until it is thoroughly heated through and bubbling around the edges. This typically takes 30-45 minutes, depending on the size of the portion. You can remove the foil for the last 10 minutes if you like a crispier cheese topping.

* **From Refrigerated:** For individual portions, reheat in the microwave for 2-4 minutes, stirring halfway through, until hot. For a larger casserole, cover with foil and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-25 minutes, or until heated through.

* If the sauce seems a little dry upon reheating, you can stir in a splash of milk or chicken broth to restore its creaminess.

More Comfort Food Recipes to Savor

If you’re a fan of hearty, soul-warming meals, you’ll love these other comfort food creations that are sure to become new family favorites:

• Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta: This is one of those irresistible recipes you’ll want on repeat. A deliciously rich home-cooked meal packed with tons of vibrant flavors, perfect for a cozy dinner.
• Vegetarian Orzo Recipe: A versatile dish that works perfectly as a light vegetarian meal or a flavorful side dish. It comes together in less than 30 minutes and pairs wonderfully with any meat.
• Creamy Pasta Bake: A true family favorite, this pasta bake features a luxurious creamy béchamel layer and savory ground beef, creating an incredibly satisfying and wholesome meal.
• Baked Ziti with Ground Beef: A classic, delicious, and deeply satisfying comfort food that is surprisingly easy to make at home. This dish can also be prepared ahead of time and reheated, offering a convenient option for busy weeknight dinners.

For My Chicken Lovers: More Delightful Chicken Dishes

If chicken is your go-to protein, explore these other fantastic recipes that celebrate tender, flavorful chicken in various mouth-watering preparations:

• Easy Marry Me Chicken Recipe: Deliciously tender chicken in a rich, creamy sauce that is so good, it will leave you wanting more. This impressive yet easy dish is perfect for a quick and elegant weeknight meal.
• Chicken Francese Recipe: An elegant and easy chicken dish that tastes gourmet and is perfect for entertaining guests or a special family dinner.
• Chicken Hash Brown Casserole: An incredibly easy, comforting casserole you can whip up in minutes. This family-favorite chicken and potato casserole is also a lifesaver for busy weeknights.

Chicken Spaghetti Recipe

A great busy day meal, freezer meal that works wonderfully with any leftover chicken you have at home. Tender pasta and chicken in a creamy, delicious sauce; a kid and adult favorite!

Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian / American
Diet: Halal
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Calories: 427kcal (per serving)
Author: Amira

Equipment

• Deep skillet
• 13×9 baking dish (optional)

Ingredients

• 2 cans cream of chicken soup (10.5 ounce each)
• 1 can RoTel tomatoes with green chiles (10 ounces, undrained)
• 1 cup milk
• 3 cups hot water
• 8 oz cream cheese
• 2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 4 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
• 16 oz spaghetti noodles, cut in half
• 2-3 cups cheddar cheese, shredded

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a deep skillet, add chicken soup, RoTel, milk, hot water, cream cheese, and Italian seasoning.
3. Turn heat on medium-high and whisk everything together until smooth and simmering.
4. When it starts to boil, add spaghetti (cut in half) and press with the back of a spoon to cover with the liquids.
5. Cover the skillet and let it cook on medium heat for 15 minutes.
6. Uncover and stir the spaghetti with a spoon to break them apart and prevent sticking.
7. Stir in the cooked chicken, cover again, and continue to cook for 5 more minutes until the pasta is cooked al dente.
8. Uncover and give it another quick stir.
9. If your skillet is oven-safe, sprinkle cheese generously on top and pop it into the preheated oven for 5-10 minutes until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly.
10. If not, spray a 13×9 inch oven-safe dish with cooking oil. Pour the spaghetti chicken mixture into the prepared dish. Sprinkle the top with cheese and place in the oven until the cheese melts and is lightly golden.

Notes

• If you prefer not to use canned cream of chicken soup, you can use homemade Alfredo sauce and substitute boiling chicken broth for the hot water in the recipe for added flavor.
• If canned RoTel is unavailable, or if you prefer a fresh alternative, add ¼ cup finely diced green pepper and ½ cup of finely diced fresh tomatoes to the sauce.
• You can also use a can of plain diced tomatoes (drained or undrained) in place of the RoTel with chilies if you want a milder flavor.
• Mozzarella cheese can be used instead of cheddar cheese for a different, milder cheesy flavor and stretchier melt.
• Please review our nutrition disclaimer policy for more information.

Nutrition

Calories: 427kcal | Carbohydrates: 36g | Protein: 27g | Fat: 19g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 85mg | Sodium: 590mg | Potassium: 370mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 627IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 217mg | Iron: 2mg

Now, go forth and impress the pants off your family and friends with this incredible Chicken Spaghetti with Rotel and Cheddar Cheese! We’d love to hear about your experience. When you make it, come back here and share your thoughts and give it a 5-star rating. Thank you for cooking with us!