Step-by-Step Velveeta Chicken Spaghetti Recipe

Step-by-Step Velveeta Chicken Spaghetti Recipe

Velveeta Chicken Spaghetti is a creamy and cheesy pasta dish made with tender chicken, spaghetti noodles, Velveeta cheese, Rotel tomatoes, and milk. It is a simple comfort food that combines the richness of melted cheese with the heartiness of chicken and pasta.

This dish is especially popular in the Southern United States, where families often serve it at gatherings, potlucks, and weeknight dinners because it is both filling and budget-friendly.

The name comes from Velveeta, a processed cheese product introduced in the 1920s, which melts smoothly and creates the perfect creamy sauce for this recipe. Over the years, it has become a classic American favorite, often passed down through family recipes.

In this article, you will find everything you need to make Velveeta Chicken Spaghetti at home. We will cover the prep time, cook time, and servings, followed by a step-by-step cooking guide. You’ll also get tips on how to make the dish more flavorful, how to store leftovers, and why this recipe is loved as a quick and delicious comfort meal.

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Details

Servings

6-8

Prep time

15min

Cooking time

1hr 15min

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs chicken breasts or thighs (boneless or bone-in)

  • 12 oz spaghetti noodles (any brand)

  • 16 oz Velveeta Original Cheese (cubed)

  • 1 can Rotel tomatoes (mild or regular)

  • 1 cup milk

  • Salt (for pasta water)

Nutrition Facts

8 servings per container


  • Amount Per ServingCalories560
  • % Daily Value *
  • Total Fat 23g 36%
    • Saturated Fat 12g 60%
  • Cholesterol 120mg 40%
  • Sodium 1.15mg 1%
  • Total Carbohydrate 42g 15%
    • Dietary Fiber 3g 12%
    • Sugars 4g
  • Protein 39g 78%

  • Calcium 23%
  • Iron 15%

* The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Key Nutrition Insights:

  • High Protein: Thanks to chicken and Velveeta, this dish provides a strong protein boost, great for muscle repair and energy.
  • Carbohydrate Rich: Spaghetti noodles make it a filling meal and a good source of quick energy.
  • Cheesy & Creamy: Velveeta adds calcium and creaminess but also increases sodium and saturated fat, so portion control is helpful.
  • Balanced Meal: Pair it with a side salad or vegetables to add more fiber and vitamins.

Chicken (2 lbs / ~900g, boneless breast)

Spaghetti noodles (12 oz / ~340g)

Velveeta cheese (16 oz / 454g block)

Rotel tomatoes (1 can, ~283g)

Milk (1 cup, ~240ml)

Salt (minimal, for boiling water)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Boil the Chicken

  1. Wash the chicken thoroughly.
  2. Place it in a large pot of water and boil on medium heat for 1 hour until tender.
  3. Once done, drain and let it cool slightly.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

  1. In another pot, boil water with a pinch of salt.
  2. Add spaghetti noodles and cook for 15 minutes, or until soft but firm.
  3. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

  1. Cut Velveeta cheese into small cubes.
  2. In a pan, add cheese and 1 cup of milk.
  3. Cook on medium heat, stirring continuously until smooth and creamy.
  4. Add Rotel tomatoes and stir well into the cheese sauce.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

  1. Shred the boiled chicken using a fork or by hand.
  2. Be careful if the chicken is still hot.

Step 5: Combine Everything

  1. Add shredded chicken to the creamy Velveeta–Rotel sauce.
  2. Mix until the chicken is fully coated.
  3. Toss in the spaghetti noodles and stir until well combined.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

  • Plate the cheesy chicken spaghetti hot and garnish with parsley or black pepper (optional).
  • Serve it as a family dinner, weeknight meal, or potluck favorite.

Best Tools for Making Velveeta Chicken Spaghetti

  1. Large Stockpot or Dutch Oven – For boiling chicken and pasta. A deep pot helps prevent water from overflowing and allows the chicken to cook evenly.
  2. Medium Saucepan – Perfect for melting Velveeta cheese with milk and Rotel to create a smooth, creamy sauce.
  3. Strainer or Colander – Essential for draining pasta and cooling boiled chicken safely before shredding.
  4. Sharp Chef’s Knife & Cutting Board – To cube Velveeta cheese and prep chicken or garnishes.
  5. Mixing Spoon or Silicone Spatula – Helps stir the cheese sauce without scratching your pan.
  6. Tongs or Forks – Useful for handling hot chicken and shredding it into bite-sized pieces.
  7. Measuring Cups & Spoons – To measure milk, cheese portions, and seasonings accurately.
  8. Serving Dish or Casserole Pan – For combining spaghetti with chicken and sauce before serving.

How to Store Leftover Velveeta Chicken Spaghetti

  1. Cool Before Storing
    • Let the spaghetti cool to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the pasta soggy.
  2. Use Airtight Containers
    • Transfer the leftovers into airtight glass or plastic containers. This keeps the cheesy pasta fresh and prevents it from absorbing fridge odors.
  3. Refrigeration
    • Store in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
    • Make sure to keep the container sealed tightly.
  4. Freezing (Optional)
    • For longer storage, freeze in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags for up to 2 months.
    • Portion into meal-sized servings for easy reheating later.
  5. Reheating Tips
    • Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
    • Add a splash of milk or chicken broth while reheating to restore creaminess, since pasta can absorb sauce over time.
    • Stir well while heating to ensure even consistency.

Conclusion

Velveeta Chicken Spaghetti is a classic comfort food that brings together tender chicken, creamy Velveeta cheese, spicy Rotel tomatoes, and hearty pasta into one satisfying dish.

It’s simple to prepare, budget-friendly, and perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or busy weeknights.

The smooth and cheesy sauce makes it a favorite for kids and adults alike, while its versatility allows you to add vegetables or spices to suit your taste.

By following this step-by-step recipe, you’ll have a rich, creamy, and flavorful meal on the table that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re cooking for your family or serving a crowd, this dish will always be a hit.

About Author

Ethan Caldwell

Hi, I’m Ethan Caldwell, a professional chef and recipe blogger with a passion for creating simple, flavorful meals. I’ve trained at Le Cordon Bleu and the Culinary Institute of America, earning diplomas in Culinary Arts and International Cuisine. After working in kitchens across Europe and the U.S., I now share my favorite recipes, tips, and cooking hacks on my blog. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned cook, I’m here to make cooking fun and approachable.

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