Ingredients:
2 cups cooked spaghetti
1 lb (450 g) chicken breast or thighs, cooked and shredded
1 can (10 oz/280 g) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies (or a similar brand)
1 can (10.5 oz/300 g) cream of chicken soup
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup diced onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp salt
1 tbsp olive oil or butter
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook Spaghetti: Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Prepare Sauce: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Mix Sauce Ingredients: In the same skillet, add the Rotel diced tomatoes, cream of chicken soup, milk, chicken broth, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
Combine Chicken and Spaghetti: Add the shredded chicken to the sauce and mix well. Gently fold in the cooked spaghetti until everything is well combined and coated with the sauce.
Add Cheese: Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot.
Tips:
Chicken: For even more flavor, you can use rotisserie chicken or cook the chicken with your favorite spices.
Cheese: Feel free to use a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
Spice Level: Adjust the spice level by choosing a spicier or milder Rotel brand, or by adding extra chili powder or hot sauce.
Make Ahead: You can prepare this dish a day in advance. Just assemble it up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate. Bake it the next day, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
Enjoy your delicious and comforting Rotel Chicken Spaghetti!