Chicken spaghetti with Rotel is a classic southern dish that is quick and easy to make. This recipe combines the flavors of tender chicken, spaghetti noodles, and a spicy tomato sauce made with Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies. The result is a savory and satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion.
Table of Contents
To make this chicken spaghetti recipe, start by cooking the spaghetti noodles according to the package directions. While the noodles are cooking, sauté diced onions and bell peppers in a large skillet until they are tender. Add in cooked, shredded chicken and a can of Rotel tomatoes and chilies, along with some spices like garlic powder and chili powder. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Finally, toss the cooked spaghetti noodles with the chicken and sauce mixture and serve hot.
Overall, this chicken spaghetti recipe with Rotel is a crowd-pleasing favorite that is easy to customize to your own tastes. Whether you prefer a mild or spicy sauce, you can adjust the amount of Rotel to suit your preferences. Plus, with just a few simple ingredients, this recipe is a budget-friendly option that is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
Overview of Chicken Spaghetti with Rotel
Chicken spaghetti with Rotel is a delicious and easy-to-make pasta dish that combines shredded chicken, spaghetti noodles, Rotel tomatoes, and a creamy cheese sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering with friends and family.
To make this dish, start by cooking spaghetti noodles according to package instructions. In a separate pan, cook and shred chicken breast. Then, mix together a can of Rotel tomatoes with a can of cream of chicken soup, and add in some spices such as garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin.
Next, combine the cooked spaghetti noodles, shredded chicken, and Rotel mixture in a large pot or casserole dish. Stir in some shredded cheese, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack, and bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
The result is a creamy and flavorful pasta dish that is sure to please everyone at the table. This recipe can also be customized by adding in additional ingredients such as diced bell peppers, jalapenos, or black beans for added texture and flavor.
Ingredients List
The ingredients for this delicious chicken spaghetti recipe with Rotel are simple and easy to find. Here is what you will need:
- 1 pound of spaghetti
- 2 cups of cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 can of Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies
- 1 can of cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can of cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup of chicken broth
- 1/2 cup of diced onion
- 1/2 cup of diced green bell pepper
- 1/2 cup of diced red bell pepper
- 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
All of these ingredients can be found at your local grocery store. The Rotel tomatoes and green chilies give this dish a little bit of a kick, while the cream of mushroom and cream of chicken soups add a creamy texture. The chicken broth adds extra flavor and moisture to the dish.
The diced onion and bell peppers give this chicken spaghetti recipe a pop of color and add a delicious crunch. The shredded cheddar cheese is the perfect finishing touch and adds a gooey, cheesy goodness to the dish.
Overall, this recipe is easy to make and requires minimal prep time. With the right ingredients, anyone can make this delicious chicken spaghetti recipe with Rotel.
Required Kitchen Tools
To prepare the chicken spaghetti recipe with Rotel, you will need some essential kitchen tools. The following list includes the necessary equipment to make this dish:
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Can opener
A large pot is required to cook the spaghetti noodles and the chicken. A colander is necessary to drain the spaghetti noodles after they are cooked. A large skillet is needed to cook the sauce and mix the ingredients together. A wooden spoon or spatula is essential to stir the ingredients in the skillet.
A cutting board and chef’s knife are necessary to chop the onions, garlic, and bell pepper. Measuring cups and spoons are required to measure the ingredients accurately. A can opener is needed to open the cans of Rotel and cream of mushroom soup.
Make sure to have all of these tools on hand before starting to cook the chicken spaghetti recipe with Rotel. Having the proper equipment will make the cooking process much smoother and easier.
Preparation Steps
Cooking the Chicken
To begin making chicken spaghetti with Rotel, the chicken needs to be cooked. One can use chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe. The chicken can be boiled, baked, or grilled. To boil the chicken, place the chicken in a pot, add enough water to cover the chicken, and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and let it cool before shredding it into small pieces.
Boiling the Spaghetti
After the chicken is cooked, the spaghetti needs to be boiled. In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and a pinch of salt and cook for 8-10 minutes or until al dente. Once the spaghetti is cooked, drain the water and set it aside.
Preparing the Rotel Mixture
The Rotel mixture is what gives this chicken spaghetti recipe its unique flavor. To prepare the Rotel mixture, heat oil in a pan and sauté onions and garlic until they become translucent. Add a can of Rotel tomatoes and green chilies, along with a can of condensed cream of mushroom soup. Stir well and let it simmer for a few minutes. Finally, add shredded cheese and stir until it melts and combines well with the mixture.
Once the Rotel mixture is ready, add the shredded chicken and cooked spaghetti to the pan. Mix well until everything is combined. Serve hot and enjoy the delicious and flavorful chicken spaghetti with Rotel.
Assembly and Baking
Once the pasta and sauce are ready, it’s time to assemble the chicken spaghetti with Rotel. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) while assembling.
- Add half of the cooked spaghetti to a 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Pour half of the chicken and Rotel mixture over the spaghetti.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on top of the chicken mixture.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining spaghetti, chicken mixture, and cheese.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Once done, remove the chicken spaghetti from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. It can be garnished with chopped parsley or green onions for added flavor and presentation.
This chicken spaghetti with Rotel recipe is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture, spicy kick, and cheesy goodness, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken spaghetti with Rotel is a delicious and hearty dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some serving suggestions to help you enjoy this meal:
- Serve with a side salad: A fresh, crisp salad is the perfect complement to this rich and savory pasta dish. Try a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette dressing, or mix things up with a Caesar or Greek salad.
- Pair with garlic bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is a classic accompaniment to any pasta dish. Slice a loaf of French bread and toast it in the oven with garlic butter and herbs for a delicious and satisfying side.
- Add some veggies: For a healthier twist on this recipe, try adding some vegetables to the mix. Sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions are a great addition, or try tossing in some steamed broccoli or spinach.
- Serve with a glass of wine: A nice glass of white wine pairs perfectly with the creamy, spicy flavors of chicken spaghetti with Rotel. Try a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a buttery Chardonnay to bring out the best in this dish.
No matter how you choose to serve it, chicken spaghetti with Rotel is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So grab a fork and dig in!
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Once the chicken spaghetti with Rotel has been cooked and served, any leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It is important to refrigerate the leftovers within two hours of cooking to prevent the growth of bacteria.
When reheating, the chicken spaghetti with Rotel can be microwaved or baked in the oven. If microwaving, place the desired amount of chicken spaghetti in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. If baking in the oven, preheat the oven to 350°F and place the chicken spaghetti in an oven-safe dish. Cover with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
It is important to ensure that the chicken spaghetti with Rotel is heated to an internal temperature of 165°F before consuming. Leftovers should be consumed within 3-4 days of cooking and should not be frozen as the texture may become mushy upon thawing.
To prevent food waste, it is recommended to only cook the amount of chicken spaghetti with Rotel that will be consumed in one sitting. If there are any leftovers, they can be used as a filling for a quesadilla or as a topping for a baked potato.
Nutritional Information
When it comes to the nutritional value of chicken spaghetti recipe with Rotel, it is important to consider the ingredients used. Chicken provides a good source of protein, while the spaghetti provides carbohydrates. The Rotel tomatoes add a flavorful kick and also contribute to the overall nutritional value of the dish.
One serving of chicken spaghetti recipe with Rotel (about 1 cup) contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the specific recipe and ingredients used. This serving size also contains around 15-20 grams of protein, which is important for building and repairing muscles.
In terms of fat content, chicken spaghetti recipe with Rotel can vary depending on the specific recipe and ingredients used. However, using lean chicken and whole wheat spaghetti can help to reduce the overall fat content of the dish.
It is also important to note that the Rotel tomatoes used in the recipe contain a good amount of vitamin C and other antioxidants, which can help to boost the immune system and promote overall health.
Overall, chicken spaghetti recipe with Rotel can be a nutritious and flavorful meal option when prepared with healthy ingredients and consumed in moderation.
Variations and Substitutions
For those who prefer a less spicy version of chicken spaghetti, they can substitute the Rotel tomatoes with diced tomatoes and add a teaspoon of chili powder instead. This will give the dish a mild flavor without compromising on the taste.
To add more vegetables to the dish, one can add chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. These vegetables can be sautéed with the onions and garlic before adding the chicken and other ingredients.
For a healthier version of chicken spaghetti, one can use whole wheat spaghetti instead of regular spaghetti. Additionally, using low-fat cheese and Greek yogurt instead of sour cream can reduce the calorie intake while still maintaining the taste and texture of the dish.
To make the dish more filling, one can add cooked and drained black beans or kidney beans. This will not only add more protein but also give the dish a unique texture and flavor.
For those who prefer a creamier version of chicken spaghetti, they can add more cream cheese or heavy cream to the dish. This will make the sauce richer and more indulgent.
Overall, the variations and substitutions for chicken spaghetti with Rotel are endless. One can experiment with different ingredients and spices to make the dish their own.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making chicken spaghetti with Rotel, there are a few common mistakes that can be easily avoided to ensure a delicious meal.
Overcooking the Pasta
One of the most common mistakes when making chicken spaghetti is overcooking the pasta. This can result in a mushy texture and can make the dish less enjoyable. To avoid this, be sure to cook the pasta according to the package instructions and check it frequently to ensure it is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
Using Too Much Rotel
While Rotel adds a delicious flavor to chicken spaghetti, using too much can overpower the dish. It’s important to use the recommended amount or adjust to your personal taste. Adding too much Rotel can also make the dish too spicy, so be sure to taste as you go and adjust accordingly.
Not Shredding the Chicken
Using whole pieces of chicken in chicken spaghetti can make it difficult to eat and can result in a less cohesive dish. It’s important to shred the chicken before adding it to the spaghetti to ensure it is evenly distributed throughout the dish and easy to eat.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure a delicious and enjoyable chicken spaghetti with Rotel.