Rotel Chicken Dip Pasta

Rotel Chicken Dip Pasta

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Get ready to dive into pure comfort with this Rotel Chicken Dip Pasta—a creamy, cheesy masterpiece that’s like your favorite dip turned into a full-on meal! Twirly rotini pasta gets coated in a rich, velvety cheese sauce packed with tender chicken, zesty Rotel tomatoes, and fresh spinach for a pop of green. Served with buttery garlic bread, it’s indulgence at its finest. I love how the smoked paprika and mozzarella add a smoky, melty vibe—perfect for cozy family dinners, game nights, or when you just need a hug in pasta form. Ready in about 40 minutes, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s get cooking and whip up this Rotel Chicken Dip Pasta!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this indulgent pasta dish:

For the Pasta:

  • 12 oz rotini pasta – Spiral noodles to grab all that cheesy sauce.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing the chicken and veggies.
  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced – Grilled or rotisserie for juicy, flavorful bites.
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic – Bold, aromatic base for the dish.
  • 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained – Zesty, spicy kick.
  • 2 cups fresh spinach (optional) – Adds color, nutrition, and flavor.

For the Cheese Sauce:

  • ¼ cup butter – Rich foundation for the roux.
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour – Thickens the sauce to creamy perfection.
  • 2 cups heavy cream (or half-and-half) – Velvety base for the sauce.
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Sharp, tangy meltiness.
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Stretchy, gooey goodness.
  • ½ cup cream cheese, softened – Smooth, extra-creamy touch.
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika – Smoky warmth to elevate the flavor.
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder – Subtle savory depth.
  • Salt and pepper, to taste – Seasons it just right.

For Serving:

  • Garlic bread or bread rolls (buttered and toasted) – Buttery, crunchy sidekick.
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional) – Bright, herby garnish.

Gather these ingredients, and you’re set for a cheesy feast!

Prep Time & Cook Time

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes – Boiling pasta and prepping ingredients.
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes – Sautéing, making sauce, and combining.
  • Total Time: 40 minutes – A comforting dish in no time!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s make this Rotel Chicken Dip Pasta with ease—here’s how:

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Chicken and Veggies: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30-60 seconds until fragrant. If using raw chicken, add diced chicken breast and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden and cooked through (internal temp of 165°F/74°C). If using pre-cooked chicken, skip to the next step. Add the drained Rotel tomatoes and fresh spinach (if using), cooking for 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts. Remove from heat and set aside.
  3. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a separate large saucepan, melt ¼ cup butter over medium heat. Whisk in ¼ cup flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden to form a roux. Gradually pour in 2 cups heavy cream, whisking constantly until smooth and thickened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and softened cream cheese, stirring until fully melted and creamy. Season with smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
  4. Combine Everything: Add the cooked rotini and chicken-vegetable mixture to the cheese sauce. Stir gently to coat everything evenly in the rich, cheesy goodness, heating through for 1-2 minutes if needed.
  5. Serve: Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Pair with buttery, toasted garlic bread or rolls for the ultimate indulgence, and dig in!

Tips & Tricks

Make this pasta even better with these handy pointers:

  • Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce for extra heat.
  • Creamy Swap: Use evaporated milk instead of heavy cream for a silky texture with fewer calories.
  • Veggie Boost: Sauté diced bell peppers or onions with the garlic for more flavor and crunch.
  • Cheese Mix: Swap mozzarella for pepper jack for a spicy twist or add extra cheddar for more tang.
  • Time Saver: Use rotisserie chicken and pre-shredded cheese to cut prep time—perfect for busy nights!

Serving Suggestions

This pasta is a meal in itself, but these sides make it a spread:

  • Green Salad: Crisp romaine with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness.
  • Roasted Veggies: Zucchini or asparagus for a healthy, colorful side.
  • Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn to echo the dip-inspired flavors.
  • Iced Tea: A cold, sweet tea for a refreshing, comforting vibe.

Storage & Reheating

Here’s how to enjoy this pasta later (it’s great for leftovers!):

  • Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
  • Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or milk, stirring gently, for 5-7 minutes. Or microwave in 30-second bursts until hot—skillet keeps the sauce creamier.
  • Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat—the sauce may separate slightly but will recombine with stirring.

Nutrition Info

This pasta is indulgent and hearty! Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (based on 6 servings):

  • Calories: 550 kcal
  • Protein: 24g – From the chicken and cheese.
  • Fat: 34g (Saturated Fat: 20g) – From the cream, cheese, and butter.
  • Carbohydrates: 38g – Mostly from the pasta.
  • Fiber: 2g – A bit from the spinach and tomatoes.
  • Sugar: 4g – Naturally occurring in the cream and Rotel.
  • Sodium: 900mg – Varies with cheese and salt; adjust to taste.

Note: Values are estimates and depend on specific brands or portion sizes.

Final Thoughts

This Rotel Chicken Dip Pasta is a creamy, cheesy love letter to comfort food, blending the bold flavors of a classic dip with the heartiness of a pasta dinner. The zesty Rotel, tender chicken, and silky sauce make it a hit for any occasion—game days, family dinners, or just treating yourself to something extra cozy. Pair it with garlic bread, and you’ve got a meal that’s pure indulgence. Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out—or if you spice it up even more! Happy cooking!