Name: Creamy Rotel Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 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; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

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This creamy Rotel chicken spaghetti casserole is one of my favorite comfort food dinners—it’s cheesy, hearty, and packed with a little spicy kick from the Rotel. It’s the kind of easy, family-style meal I make when I want something filling and fuss-free that everyone will actually eat without complaint.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this casserole brings together simple ingredients in the best way. The creamy sauce, tender shredded chicken, and pasta all come together with the tangy heat of Rotel for a dish that’s as flavorful as it is comforting. It’s great for meal prep, potlucks, or busy weeknights when I need a guaranteed win at the dinner table. Creamy Rotel Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

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
1/2 cup sour cream
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

Directions

I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large mixing bowl, I combine the cooked spaghetti, shredded chicken, drained Rotel, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, 1 cup of the shredded cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. I stir everything until well combined.
I pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
I top it with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheese.
I bake the casserole uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
Before serving, I let it rest for a few minutes and sometimes sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a pop of color.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 6.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Add veggies: I sometimes mix in sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or frozen peas for extra flavor and color.
Make it spicy: I add a pinch of cayenne or use hot Rotel to really turn up the heat.
Cheese swap: Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack are great substitutes or additions for extra creaminess or spice.
Use rotisserie chicken: When I’m in a rush, grabbing a rotisserie chicken saves time and adds flavor.
Breadcrumb topping: A sprinkle of buttery breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers on top adds a nice crunch.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
To reheat, I cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15–20 minutes, or until heated through. Individual portions can be microwaved for 1–2 minutes.
This casserole also freezes well—I wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. I thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as usual. Creamy Rotel Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, I often assemble it a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. When I’m ready to bake, I just let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes and pop it in the oven.

What’s the best kind of chicken to use?

I use whatever I have—leftover baked chicken, shredded poached chicken, or rotisserie chicken all work beautifully.

Can I use a different pasta?

Yes, I’ve used penne, rotini, and even egg noodles when I’m out of spaghetti. I just make sure not to overcook the pasta before baking.

Is there a way to make this less spicy?

Definitely. I use mild Rotel or substitute with plain diced tomatoes if I want to cut down on the heat.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, I double all the ingredients and bake it in a large foil pan if I’m feeding a crowd. It’s always a hit at gatherings.

Conclusion

This creamy Rotel chicken spaghetti casserole is everything I want in a cozy, one-dish dinner—easy to throw together, full of flavor, and perfect for feeding a hungry crowd. It’s one of those recipes I keep in rotation because it never disappoints, and I love how adaptable it is based on what I have in my kitchen.