2. Shred the Chicken
Shred the meat from a rotisserie chicken, making sure to discard the skin and bones. Using rotisserie chicken not only saves time but also adds a deep, roasted flavor to the dish. If you prefer, you can cook your own chicken breasts, but rotisserie chicken is a convenient and flavorful option.
3. Prepare the Cheese Sauce
In a large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add in the Velveeta cheese chunks and milk, stirring constantly to ensure the cheese melts smoothly without any lumps. Once the sauce is creamy, stir in the can of Rotel (diced tomatoes and green chilies) along with the can of cream of mushroom soup. This combination gives the casserole its rich, creamy texture with a bit of tang and spice from the Rotel. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine the Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, shredded chicken, and the cheesy sauce. Stir everything together until the spaghetti and chicken are well-coated with the sauce. This is the key to ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
5. Transfer to a Baking Dish
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour the chicken spaghetti mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly. Top the casserole with shredded cheddar cheese, which will melt into a bubbly, golden layer as it bakes.
In a small bowl, mix panko bread crumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter. This will create a crisp, crunchy topping that adds texture to the casserole. Sprinkle the buttered panko over the shredded cheddar.
6. Bake the Casserole
Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and the top is golden brown. The cheese should be perfectly melted, and the bread crumbs should be crispy.
7. Serve and Garnish
Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving to ensure the flavors are set. For an added burst of heat, sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes over the top before serving. You can also garnish with fresh parsley or sliced green onions for a fresh contrast to the rich, cheesy sauce.
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