Creamy Rotel Chicken Pasta Cheese is a delightful dish that warms you up on cozy nights. It’s a comfort food that combines tender chicken, creamy cheese, and vibrant vegetables in a delicious pasta dish. Not only does it taste great, but it’s also simple to make, making it the perfect choice for a family dinner or a casual get-together.
Why make this recipe
You should make Creamy Rotel Chicken Pasta Cheese because it’s quick, easy, and full of flavor. This dish satisfies everyone at the table, from kids to adults. The creamy sauce and melting cheese make it feel indulgent, while the bell peppers and spices add a wonderful kick. Plus, it uses natural ingredients that you can find in your kitchen, making it a hassle-free option for any night of the week.
How to make Creamy Rotel Chicken Pasta Cheese
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for tossing chicken)
- 1 to 2 tbsp taco seasoning (to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Cajun seasoning (optional)
- 1 tbsp neutral oil (for sautéing chicken)
- 2 tbsp butter (divided for cooking)
- 16 oz rotini pasta (or preferred pasta)
- 1 tbsp chicken bouillon granules (for pasta water)
- 1 red bell pepper (diced)
- 1 orange bell pepper (diced)
- 1 green bell pepper (diced)
- 4 to 5 cloves of garlic (minced)
- 1 red onion (diced)
- 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1 tsp onion powder (optional)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (for flavor)
- 1 can canned diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel)
- 1.5 cups heavy cream (for creaminess)
- 12 oz processed cheese (cubed)
- 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese (adds spiciness)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (adds flavor)
- Additional taco seasoning (to taste)
Directions:
- In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with olive oil, taco seasoning, and optional Cajun seasoning.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Melt half the butter with neutral oil, then sauté the seasoned chicken until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Stir in the chicken-flavored bouillon, add the rotini, and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and keep warm.
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Add diced bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Cook for about 10 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Stir in the canned Rotel tomatoes and heavy cream, warming for a few minutes. Gradually add processed cheese cubes, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Fold the cooked rotini into the creamy sauce, ensuring every piece is coated. Add the reserved chicken and mix together until well combined.
- Serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or extra cheese on top for that delicious finishing touch!
How to serve Creamy Rotel Chicken Pasta Cheese
Creamy Rotel Chicken Pasta Cheese is best served hot. You can add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley on top for a fresh touch. Pair it with a simple green salad and some crusty bread to soak up the extra sauce. It’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends.
How to store Creamy Rotel Chicken Pasta Cheese
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for up to 3-4 days. When you are ready to eat, gently reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. You may want to add a splash of milk or cream to restore the creaminess.
Tips to make Creamy Rotel Chicken Pasta Cheese
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Fresh peppers and garlic make a big difference.
- Adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the amount of taco seasoning and pepper jack cheese.
- Don’t overcook the pasta; it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce.
Variation
You can customize this dish by adding other vegetables like spinach or zucchini, or by using different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or gouda, for a different flavor. You can also replace the chicken with shrimp or leftover rotisserie chicken to save time.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta you like. Penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti would work well in this recipe.
2. Is there a vegetarian option for this dish?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with mushrooms, tofu, or any other preferred meat substitute, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken bouillon.
3. How spicy is this dish?
The level of spiciness can be adjusted based on your preference. Using less taco seasoning and omitting the pepper jack cheese will lower the spice level significantly.
Creamy Rotel Chicken Pasta Cheese
Ingredients
Method
- In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with olive oil, taco seasoning, and optional Cajun seasoning.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Melt half the butter with neutral oil, then sauté the seasoned chicken until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Stir in the chicken-flavored bouillon, add the rotini, and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and keep warm.
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Add diced bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Cook for about 10 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Stir in the canned Rotel tomatoes and heavy cream, warming for a few minutes. Gradually add processed cheese cubes, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Fold the cooked rotini into the creamy sauce, ensuring every piece is coated. Add the reserved chicken and mix together until well combined.
- Serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or extra cheese on top for that delicious finishing touch!