If you’re craving a dish that’s both comforting and bursting with Southern charm, look no further than this Southern Chicken Spaghetti with RoTel Recipe. This casserole brings together tender shredded chicken, hearty spaghetti, and a creamy, cheesy sauce with a delightful kick from RoTel diced tomatoes and green chilies. It’s a family-friendly meal that’s satisfying, easy to prepare, and perfect for gathering around the table to share warmth and flavor. Once you try this recipe, it’ll quickly become one of your trusted go-to dishes when you want that perfect blend of creamy, spicy, and savory.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun and ensures your Southern Chicken Spaghetti with RoTel Recipe is as delicious as it can be. Each element plays a key role, whether bringing creaminess, spice, or hearty texture to the table.
- 1.5 pounds boneless cooked shredded chicken: Provides lean protein and a tender, meaty base for the casserole.
- 16 ounces spaghetti, broken into 2-inch pieces: The perfect pasta foundation that soaks up all the creamy sauce beautifully.
- 2 cans (10.75 oz each) condensed cream of chicken soup: Adds rich, velvety creaminess to make the sauce irresistible.
- 10 ounces RoTel diced tomatoes & green chilies: Brings the signature spicy, tangy punch essential to this recipe.
- 6 ounces softened cream cheese: Gives the sauce a luscious, smooth texture that ties everything together.
- 3 cups shredded Cheddar cheese (divided): Sharpness meets gooey delight with melted Cheddar cheese in and on top of the dish.
- ¼ cup heavy cream or milk: Adjusts the sauce consistency for that perfect pourable, creamy finish.
- 1 cup mixed peppers and onions, sautéed: Adds sweetness and a subtle crunch that balances the boldness of RoTel.
How to Make Southern Chicken Spaghetti with RoTel Recipe
Step 1: Prep Ingredients
Start by cooking and shredding the chicken breast, which will be the star protein of your casserole. If you’re using fresh peppers and onions, sauté them gently until they soften and release their natural sweetness. While these are cooking, get your spaghetti boiling in salted water—break it into 2-inch pieces for easy mixing and eating.
Step 2: Create the Creamy Sauce
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the condensed cream of chicken soup, RoTel diced tomatoes and green chilies, and the softened cream cheese. Microwave this mixture, stirring every minute, until it becomes smooth, creamy, and thoroughly blended. This sauce is where all the rich, zesty flavor happens.
Step 3: Incorporate the Cheese
Stir in 2 cups of shredded Cheddar cheese into your warm sauce. Watch as the cheese melts and creates a luscious, velvety layer that perfectly complements the tang of the RoTel and the creaminess of the soup and cream cheese.
Step 4: Combine Chicken, Pasta, and Veggies
Mix the shredded chicken, cooked spaghetti, and sautéed peppers and onions right into the cheese sauce. Make sure everything is well combined so that each bite is packed with flavor, texture, and that signature Southern comfort.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake the Casserole
Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese over the top to guarantee a golden, bubbly crust once baked. At this point, you can either bake it immediately or prepare it for the freezer if you want a make-ahead meal.
Step 6: Bake or Freeze
To bake, preheat your oven to 350°F and bake the casserole for about 20 minutes until the cheese topping is melted and bubbling. For freezing, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready, bake from frozen or thawed until hot and bubbly.
How to Serve Southern Chicken Spaghetti with RoTel Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing this Southern Chicken Spaghetti with RoTel Recipe is a fun opportunity to add color and contrast. Fresh chopped parsley or green onions sprinkled on top provide a fresh, bright bite that balances the richness. For a little extra heat, a light dusting of smoked paprika or crushed red pepper flakes works beautifully.
Side Dishes
Complement this hearty casserole with crisp sides like a simple green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette, or roasted vegetables to add some wholesome crunch. For a true Southern touch, consider serving with buttery cornbread or creamy coleslaw to round out the meal perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re making this for a crowd, serve individual portions in ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets with a sprinkle of cheese on top, broiling briefly for that perfect crust. For casual dinners, a big family-style casserole dish right on the table invites everyone to serve themselves and share stories with every cheesy, spicy forkful.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Southern Chicken Spaghetti with RoTel Recipe keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Store in an airtight container to maintain the creamy texture and vibrant flavors. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat gently to avoid drying out the pasta.
Freezing
This casserole freezes wonderfully, making it an amazing option for busy weeks. Freeze the fully assembled, unbaked dish or freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers. Just be sure it’s tightly wrapped to prevent freezer burn and preserve the delicious taste.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil to prevent the cheese from burning, until warmed through. Microwave reheating works too for single servings but be mindful not to overcook, as noodles can become mushy.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of RoTel in this recipe?
Fresh tomatoes can be used, but they won’t provide the same spicy kick that RoTel’s diced tomatoes and green chilies add. To get close to the original flavor, consider adding a bit of diced green chilies or jalapeños along with the fresh tomatoes.
What can I substitute for cream cheese if I don’t have any on hand?
If cream cheese isn’t available, you can use sour cream or a thick Greek yogurt as a substitute. These options will still add creaminess, though the flavor may be slightly tangier.
Is it okay to use whole wheat or gluten-free spaghetti?
Absolutely! Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta options work just fine in this recipe, just make sure to cook them according to package instructions since cooking times can vary.
Can I prepare the dish entirely ahead of time and bake it later?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole, refrigerate it for up to 2 days, and then bake it fresh when you’re ready. This makes it a great dish for busy weeknights or entertaining.
How spicy is this Southern Chicken Spaghetti with RoTel Recipe?
The heat level is moderate since RoTel contains mild green chilies. If you want more spice, feel free to add extra diced chilies or hot sauce to taste when preparing the sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Southern Chicken Spaghetti with RoTel Recipe is like a warm hug on a plate, full of creamy goodness, tender chicken, and that perfect blend of flavors that make you smile with every bite. It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet comforting enough for family gatherings. I encourage you to try this recipe soon and discover your own reasons to fall in love with Southern-style comfort food all over again.
Print
Southern Chicken Spaghetti with RoTel Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
This Southern Chicken Spaghetti with RoTel is a creamy, comforting casserole perfect for family dinners. Tender shredded chicken is combined with spaghetti, a cheesy tomato-vegetable sauce, and baked until bubbly. The dish features classic Southern flavors with a spicy kick from RoTel diced tomatoes and green chilies, all wrapped in a cheesy, creamy sauce that’s deliciously satisfying.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1.5 pounds boneless, cooked, and shredded chicken breast (or more, if desired)
Pasta
- 16 ounces spaghetti, broken into 2-inch pieces
Canned Goods & Dairy
- 2 (10.75-ounce) cans condensed cream of chicken soup (21.5 ounces total)
- 10 ounces diced tomatoes & green chilies (RoTel)
- 6 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 3 cups shredded Cheddar cheese, divided (12 ounces)
- ¼ cup heavy cream (or milk)
Vegetables
- 1 cup mixed peppers and onions (sautéed if using fresh)
Instructions
- Prep Ingredients: Gather all ingredients. If using fresh peppers and onions, prepare and have them ready for sautéing.
- Cook Chicken and Vegetables: Cook and shred the chicken breast if not already done. Sauté the mixed peppers and onions until softened to bring out their natural sweetness and flavor.
- Cook Spaghetti: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the spaghetti broken into 2-inch pieces until tender but still firm (al dente). Drain and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the condensed cream of chicken soup, RoTel diced tomatoes with green chilies, and softened cream cheese. Heat in the microwave, stirring every minute until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Add Cheese: Stir in 2 cups of shredded Cheddar cheese to the creamy sauce until melted and fully incorporated. If the sauce is too thick, thin it out with a little heavy cream or milk to reach desired consistency.
- Combine Ingredients: Mix the shredded chicken, cooked spaghetti, and sautéed peppers and onions into the cheese sauce thoroughly, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
- Assemble Casserole: Grease a casserole dish and spoon the mixture into it. Evenly top the casserole with the remaining 1 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Bake or Freeze: You can cover the casserole with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze it for up to 3 months or refrigerate for up to 2 days before baking. To bake, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for approximately 20 minutes until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes out of the oven before serving to allow the dish to set slightly for easier portioning and enhanced flavors.
Notes
- Breaking spaghetti into shorter pieces makes it easier to eat and mix well in the casserole.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add extra diced jalapeños or more RoTel tomatoes.
- You can substitute heavy cream with milk for a lighter sauce.
- This casserole freezes well; be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking.
- For a lower-fat version, use reduced-fat cheese and milk instead of heavy cream.
