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Featured image of creamy Rotel Chicken Pasta, ready to serve.

Amazing Rotel Chicken Pasta

This Rotel Chicken Pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish that's perfect for weeknight dinners. It combines chicken, pasta, Rotel tomatoes, and a creamy cheese sauce for a satisfying and easy-to-make meal. Enjoy the deliciousness and customizable spice level!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1 lb pasta rotini, penne, or your favorite shape
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup milk or chicken broth
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • Optional: chopped cilantro or green onions for garnish

Equipment

  • Large skillet or Dutch oven
  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Spatula or spoon

Method
 

  1. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
  3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until cooked through and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside.
  4. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  5. Add the can of Rotel (undrained), cream cheese, and cream of chicken soup to the skillet. Stir until the cream cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a little milk or chicken broth until it reaches your desired consistency. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed.
  6. Stir in the cooked chicken and shredded cheddar cheese. Cook until the cheese is melted and everything is heated through.
  7. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat evenly.
  8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  9. Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions (optional).
  10. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

For a spicier dish, add cayenne pepper or use a hotter variety of Rotel. Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack. The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Add chopped bell peppers, corn, or black beans to the sauce for extra vegetables. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth if needed.