Chicken Spaghetti
Discover the Comfort of Chicken Spaghetti
There’s something profoundly comforting about a warm, creamy pasta dish, and this Chicken Spaghetti recipe is no exception. Perfect for busy nights, this recipe allows you to prepare a wholesome dinner in about 30 minutes, especially if you do some prep work the night before. Imagine tender spaghetti, juicy chicken, and a blend of savory flavors all coming together in a single dish. It’s the ideal meal to share with family or friends over laughter and conversation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chicken Spaghetti is a dream come true for anyone who loves easy, delicious meals. It’s versatile, allowing for substitutions like gluten-free pasta or low-fat cheese, and it’s packed with flavor from ingredients like green chilies and sharp cheddar cheese. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use leftover chicken, making it both resourceful and satisfying. Serve it with a green salad and some Jiffy cornbread for a complete meal that everyone will adore.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot
- Colander
- Mixing bowl
- Casserole dish
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 16-ounce box spaghetti, broken into 2-inch pieces
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (a store-bought rotisserie chicken works perfectly for this)
- 2 cans cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 4-ounce can green chilies, drained
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 4-ounce can chopped pimientos, drained
- 1 teaspoon seasoning salt
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- In a large pot, cook the spaghetti in a mixture of chicken broth and water until al dente. Once cooked, drain the spaghetti and set it aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti with the shredded chicken, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, 2 cups of the cheddar cheese, green chilies, diced onion, chopped pimientos, seasoning salt, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture into a casserole dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cup of cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes or until the top is bubbly and golden.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious Chicken Spaghetti!
Tips for Success
- For extra flavor, try using grilled chicken or adding a dash of chili powder.
- If you prefer a milder dish, opt for regular diced tomatoes instead of green chilies.
- Prepare the ingredients the night before to save time on busy evenings.
Additional Tips and Variations
- Swap regular spaghetti for quinoa spaghetti to make it gluten-free.
- Use low-fat cheese to reduce the fat content while maintaining flavor.
- This recipe is a great way to use up leftover chicken or vegetables.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
- Calories: Approximately 450
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 20g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
What can I serve with Chicken Spaghetti?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad and some cornbread.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the leftovers in an airtight container for up to two months. Simply reheat in the oven before serving.
Conclusion
This Chicken Spaghetti is a comforting and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. It’s easy to prepare, delicious, and versatile enough to suit various dietary needs. We invite you to give it a try and share your experience with us. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your Facebook friends and let us know how it turned out!