I am so excited to share this cozy, comforting dish with you: my favorite Rotel Chicken Spaghetti Recipe. This casserole has been a staple in my kitchen for years, delivering a perfect marriage of creamy cheese, tender chicken, and just the right kick from Rotel tomatoes with green chilies. Every bite feels like a warm, satisfying hug, making it one of those recipes I turn to again and again when I want something both easy to prepare and full of flavor.

Why You'll Love This Rotel Chicken Spaghetti Recipe

What really makes this Rotel Chicken Spaghetti Recipe stand out for me is the incredible balance of flavors and textures. The sharp cheddar topping melts beautifully over the creamy Velveeta and chicken base, while the Rotel tomatoes add just enough mild heat and brightness without overpowering the dish. The sautéed bell peppers and onions offer a subtle sweetness and a little crunch that make each bite more interesting and delicious. It’s a flavor profile that’s simple but satisfying in the best way.

Another reason I’m so passionate about this recipe is how approachable it is. Even if you’re not an experienced cook, the steps are straightforward, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or feeding a crowd with minimal stress. The ingredients are everyday pantry and fridge staples, so I often have everything on hand. Plus, the casserole can be made ahead and simply popped in the oven when you’re ready, which means less fuss and more time to relax or entertain.

Finally, I love serving this dish for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or potlucks because it appeals to all ages and tastes. It has that classic comfort food vibe but also feels a little special thanks to the flavorful twist from Rotel and spices. Whether you’re warming up after a chilly day or need a hearty crowd-pleaser, this recipe fits the bill every single time.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows six white bowls and a bundle of dry spaghetti on a white marbled surface. The top right bowl is filled with bright orange shredded cheese, looking soft and plentiful. Below it, a white bowl holds shredded pale cooked chicken with a fibrous texture. To the right, a neat bundle of uncooked golden yellow spaghetti rests on a white cloth. On the top left, a small bowl contains a light yellow clear liquid, while below it, a bowl of thick pale yellow creamy sauce is placed close to a bowl with chunks of red diced tomatoes mixed with small green bits. Finally, a small bowl at the bottom left holds a smooth white liquid, all arranged neatly for a cooking preparation photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic behind this Rotel Chicken Spaghetti Recipe comes from a handful of simple but essential ingredients, each contributing its own charm to the dish. From the tender shredded chicken and creamy cheeses to the bright, slightly spicy tomatoes and welcoming bell peppers, every part combines into a luscious, well-rounded flavor and texture experience.

TIP : You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below

Spaghetti: The perfect base to soak up all the cheesy, flavorful sauce.
Extra virgin olive oil: I use this to sauté the veggies, adding richness and depth.
Diced onion: Adds sweetness and an aromatic foundation.
Diced bell pepper: Gives a fresh, slightly crunchy texture and vibrant color.
Rotel tomatoes with green chilies: The star ingredient that brings a mild but exciting kick.
Cooked shredded chicken breast: Provides protein and heartiness; rotisserie chicken works great here.
Kosher salt and spices: Simple seasoning that enhances the natural flavors perfectly.
Velveeta cheese: Melts into a creamy, smooth base for the sauce.
Cream of chicken soup: Adds creaminess and seasoning in one easy step.
Chicken broth: Thins the sauce slightly and infuses more savory notes.
Shredded cheddar cheese: A sharp topping that forms a golden, bubbly crust.
Fresh chopped parsley or cilantro: A bright, fresh garnish that lifts the whole dish.

Directions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x13 baking dish by spraying it generously with nonstick cooking spray. This ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking.

Step 2: Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain it well and set it aside. I like to toss the noodles with a touch of olive oil to keep them from sticking.

Step 3: Heat 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, sautéing them until they become tender and fragrant, about 4-5 minutes. This step brings out their natural sweetness.

Step 4: Pour in the Rotel tomatoes with green chilies, including the juice. Let everything simmer together for a few minutes to meld the flavors and slightly thicken the mixture.

Step 5: Stir in the shredded chicken along with the chili powder, cumin if you’re using it, kosher salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to ensure the chicken is heated through and the spices are well distributed.

Step 6: Add the cubed Velveeta cheese, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir continuously over medium heat until the Velveeta melts smoothly and the sauce becomes creamy and luscious.

Step 7: Combine the cooked spaghetti with the cheese and chicken sauce directly in the skillet. Toss thoroughly to coat every strand with the rich mixture.

Step 8: Transfer everything to your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese all over the top to create that irresistible golden crust.

Step 9: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese topping is melted, bubbly, and starting to brown. Once done, let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to let it set and deepen the flavors.

Servings and Timing

This Rotel Chicken Spaghetti Recipe yields about 8 generous servings, making it ideal for a family meal or small gathering. The prep time is around 20 minutes, which mainly involves chopping and cooking the pasta, while the active cooking time is approximately 40 minutes including baking. Altogether, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 5 minutes from start to finish. There’s just a brief resting period after it comes out of the oven, so plan accordingly if you want it hot and fresh for your guests.

How to Serve This Rotel Chicken Spaghetti Recipe

This image shows a white plate filled with a creamy pasta dish layered with light-colored spaghetti noodles mixed with chunks of light beige chicken. On top, there is a melted yellow cheese layer with some red bell pepper strips and small green herb pieces scattered over it. The plate sits on a white marbled surface, with blurred green chili peppers and a colorful cloth in the background. A woman's hand is holding the plate gently from the side photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

When I serve this Rotel Chicken Spaghetti Recipe, I like to keep things simple but thoughtful. A crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette complements the richness beautifully, balancing the creamy cheese sauce and spicy tomatoes. Roasted or steamed vegetables such as broccoli or green beans also pair nicely and add fresh color to the plate.

For garnish, I love sprinkling fresh chopped parsley or cilantro right before serving, adding a lovely pop of green and a burst of brightness that elevates the whole dish. Presentation-wise, a warm casserole dish straight from the oven is inviting, but if you want to plate it for guests, a generous mound on each plate with a sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese and herbs looks fabulous.

As for drinks, this casserole is versatile—it pairs well with a chilled white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc or a light lager beer for casual meals. If you’re serving a crowd at a party, iced tea or sparkling water with lemon gives a refreshing contrast. This dish is best served warm or hot, right out of the oven, to enjoy the creamy cheese at its most luscious.

Variations

Over time, I’ve enjoyed experimenting with this Rotel Chicken Spaghetti Recipe to suit different tastes and dietary needs. One easy swap is using ground turkey or shredded pork instead of chicken for a slightly different protein flavor profile. For a vegetarian twist, you can replace chicken with hearty mushrooms and use a cream of mushroom soup variant.

If you need to make it gluten-free, there are great pasta alternatives like brown rice or chickpea spaghetti that work perfectly here without sacrificing texture. For a lighter version, you could reduce the cheese amounts or use a low-fat Velveeta and soup option, though I warn you— the richness is part of the magic!

I also like adding extra spices or fresh jalapeños if I want more heat. Another fun variation is stirring in a handful of corn or black beans to the mix for added texture and southwestern flair. Experimenting with different cheeses, such as Pepper Jack or Monterey Jack, can give a new dimension to the flavor as well.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Rotel Chicken Spaghetti stores wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator. I recommend dividing it into portions so that you can reheat only what you need. It will keep fresh for about 3 to 4 days, giving you quick and easy meals for the rest of the week without starting from scratch.

Freezing

This recipe also freezes well if you want to make a big batch and save some for later. I like to freeze it in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags with the date clearly labeled. It keeps best for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture.

Reheating

When reheating, I prefer to warm leftovers gently in the oven at 325°F until heated through, which helps keep the casserole creamy and prevents the cheese from becoming rubbery. Microwave reheating is fine for quick meals but do it in short bursts and stir between intervals to evenly warm without drying out. Adding a splash of chicken broth before reheating can restore some moisture if it seems a bit thick or dry.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breast?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that saves time and adds delicious flavor. Just shred it and use it in place of the cooked chicken breast in the recipe. It’s one of my favorite ways to make this dish when I’m short on time.

Is there a way to make this Rotel Chicken Spaghetti Recipe spicier?

Yes! If you enjoy heat, you can add diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to the mixture while cooking. Increasing the amount of Rotel green chilies or using a hotter variety of diced tomatoes will also give the dish more kick. Just be sure to adjust gradually to your heat preference.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time and bake it later?

Definitely. You can assemble the entire dish and refrigerate it, covered tightly with foil or plastic wrap, for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, just pop it in the oven a little longer to ensure it’s heated through and bubbly. This makes it great for meal prepping or hosting dinners.

What substitutes work well for Velveeta cheese if I don’t have it?

Velveeta is prized for its smooth melting, but if you don’t have it, processed cheese slices or a mixture of cream cheese and shredded cheddar can work in a pinch. Alternatively, you can use a good melting cheese like Monterey Jack, combined with a little cream or milk to maintain creaminess, though it won’t be quite the same texture.

How can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?

For a vegan or dairy-free version, swap the chicken for a plant-based protein like jackfruit or tofu. Use a dairy-free cream soup alternative or make your own cashew cream sauce, and choose vegan cheddar-style shreds for the topping. Keep the Rotel tomatoes and spices the same for flavor. The texture and richness will be slightly different but still delicious!

Conclusion

I truly hope you give this Rotel Chicken Spaghetti Recipe a try because it has become one of my go-to comfort foods that never disappoints. It brings together vibrant flavors, creamy cheese, and wholesome chicken in a way that feels both familiar and a little exciting. Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting friends, this casserole is sure to earn its place on your favorite recipe list. Happy cooking and even happier eating!