Creamy Cheesy Rotel Chicken Pasta Bake
Rich, creamy, and packed with bold Tex-Mex flavor, this comforting pasta dish is loaded with tender rotisserie chicken, zesty Rotel tomatoes, and plenty of melty cheese. It’s the perfect easy dinner for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings.
Ingredients
12 ounces penne or rotini pasta
1 cup chicken broth
4 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
1 (10-ounce) can Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
1 cup sour cream
8 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook the pasta according to package directions until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat, combine the chicken broth, softened cream cheese, and sour cream. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Add the Rotel tomatoes, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully combined.
Fold in the shredded chicken, cooked pasta, 1½ cups of cheddar cheese, and half of the mozzarella. Stir until everything is evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the top.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a crisp green salad, warm garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
Tips
For extra heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or use hot Rotel.
Swap the chicken for ground beef or turkey for a delicious variation.
Leftovers reheat beautifully, making this a great meal-prep option.
Enjoy this creamy, cheesy pasta bake that brings bold flavor and comforting goodness to every bite!
