Looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion? This Chicken Spaghetti recipe is a guaranteed hit! Packed with tender chicken, al dente spaghetti, creamy mushroom soup, and a cheesy topping, this casserole is the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re meal prepping, hosting a family dinner, or craving a hearty dish, this recipe is a must-try. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly and customizable to suit your taste buds. Let’s dive into the details!
Ingredients Breakdown
• Chicken: Cooked and shredded for a hearty protein base.
• Spaghetti: Broken into smaller pieces to mix well with the sauce.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: Adds a creamy, savory depth.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Melts into the dish for rich cheesiness.
• Green Pepper & Onion: Finely diced for a mild crunch and extra flavor.
• Pimentos: Adds a pop of color and slight sweetness.
• Chicken Broth: Reserved from cooking the chicken for extra flavor.
• Seasonings: Lawry’s Seasoned Salt, cayenne, salt, and pepper for a well-balanced taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comfort Food at Its Best: Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, this dish is the epitome of comfort food.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Perfect for busy weeknights, this casserole can be made ahead and frozen for later.
- Family-Approved: Kids and adults alike will love the hearty combination of chicken, pasta, and cheese.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to include your favorite veggies or spices.
Tips and Tricks
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: Save time by using store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of cooking a fryer.
- Add Veggies: Toss in mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli for extra nutrition.
- Spice It Up: Adjust the cayenne pepper to make it as mild or spicy as you like.
- Cheese Options: Swap sharp cheddar for Monterey Jack or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
Variations and Customizations
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free spaghetti and cream of mushroom soup.
- Low-Carb: Replace spaghetti with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
- Extra Creamy: Add a cup of sour cream or cream cheese to the mixture for a richer texture.
- Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with turkey or ham for a twist.
Pairing Suggestions
- Side Dishes: Serve with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables.
- Drinks: Pair with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or a refreshing iced tea.
- Dessert: End the meal with a classic dessert like apple pie or chocolate mousse.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
- Freezer: Cover the unbaked casserole tightly with foil and freeze for up to 6 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Popular Questions
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute spaghetti with penne, fusilli, or any pasta you prefer.
2. How do I prevent the cheese from burning?
Cover the casserole with foil during the last 15-20 minutes of baking to prevent over-browning.
3. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free cheese and a plant-based cream soup alternative.
4. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or in the microwave for 2-3 minutes.
Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Boil 1 whole fryer chicken until tender. Remove meat, shred, and measure 2 cups. Reserve broth.
- In the reserved broth, cook spaghetti until al dente. Do not overcook. Drain.
- In a large bowl, combine pasta, chicken, cream of mushroom soup, 2 cups cheddar, diced pepper, onion, pimentos, chicken broth, seasoned salt, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour mixture into a greased casserole dish. Top with the additional 1 cup of cheddar cheese.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes until bubbly and golden. If cheese begins to brown too much, loosely cover with foil.
Notes
- This recipe makes an excellent freezer meal—simply assemble, cover, and freeze unbaked.
- For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or sour cream before baking.
- Adjust seasonings to taste—some prefer more cayenne for a spicy kick.
