Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the diced onion and green bell pepper until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Add garlic and cook for another minute before stirring in the Rotel tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let simmer for 2–3 minutes to deepen the flavor.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked spaghetti, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, 1 cup of shredded cheese, and the skillet mixture. Stir until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and top with the remaining cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro or jalapeños if desired.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~480
- Protein: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 880mg
This dish is a great source of protein and energy, making it ideal for busy weeknights or post-workout meals. If you’re watching your sodium intake, opt for low-sodium soup and cheese alternatives.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overcooking the pasta: Spaghetti should be al dente because it will continue to cook in the oven.
Using dry chicken: Moist, shredded chicken helps maintain the creamy texture. Dry chicken will absorb too much sauce.
Skipping the seasoning: While this dish gets a lot of flavor from the Rotel and soup, seasoning with cumin and chili powder is essential for that Tex-Mex kick.
Adding cheese too early: Only top the casserole with cheese before baking. Avoid mixing all of it into the base to prevent a greasy result.
Helpful Tips
- Make it spicy: Add chopped jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or use spicy Rotel to kick up the heat.
- Meal prep: This dish freezes well! Simply assemble it in a foil pan, cover, and freeze before baking.
- Healthier twist: Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream, use whole wheat pasta, or mix in spinach or corn for added nutrients.
- Use leftovers: Got leftover grilled chicken or turkey? This is a perfect recipe to use it up creatively.
- Kid-friendly version: Skip the green chilies and reduce the spices slightly to make it milder.
Conclusion
This Mexican Chicken Spaghetti isn’t just another chicken pasta recipe—it’s a one-dish wonder that brings comfort, flavor, and versatility to your dinner table. With simple pantry ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a creamy, cheesy, and family-approved meal ready in no time. It’s the kind of dish that pleases picky eaters and impresses dinner guests alike. Whether you’re looking to save time, repurpose leftovers, or spice up your weekly meal plan, this casserole-style dish is a true winner. Bookmark this recipe and enjoy a dinner that hits all the right notes—delicious, nutritious, and incredibly satisfying.
