Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a comforting and delicious dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. This casserole combines the flavors of cheesy goodness, tender chicken, and wholesome pasta all baked together to create a satisfying meal. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip up this dish with ease. It promises to please even the pickiest eaters. Let’s explore why you should make this recipe and how to prepare it effortlessly.
Why make this recipe
This Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole offers a variety of benefits. First, it is a one-dish meal that saves time on cleanup. You can prepare it in only a single casserole dish, making it incredibly convenient. Second, it is a hearty recipe packed with protein from the chicken and stretching ingredients like spaghetti, which can feed a crowd or provide multiple meals. Third, this casserole is adjustable, allowing cookers to add their favorite vegetables or spices to bring personal flair to the recipe. Lastly, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover chicken and can be made ahead of time for easy weeknight dinners.
How to make Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Creating the Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is straightforward. Follow these easy steps to prepare a delightful meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (about 280 grams)
- 3 cups dry spaghetti, broken into 2-inch pieces (about 300 grams)
- 2 cans cream of mushroom soup (about 800 grams total)
- 2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese, divided (about 200 grams)
- 1/4 cup green pepper, finely diced (about 40 grams)
- 1/4 cup onion, finely diced (about 40 grams)
- 1 jar (4 oz) diced pimentos, drained (about 115 grams)
- 2 cups chicken broth, reserved from cooking chicken (about 480 milliliters)
- 1 tsp Lawry’s Seasoned Salt (about 5 grams)
- 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
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Cook the Chicken: Boil a cut-up fryer chicken in a large pot until cooked through, around 30-40 minutes. Remove the chicken, reserve 2 cups of broth, and shred the meat to measure 2 cups.
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Cook the Spaghetti: In the same broth, bring the heat back up, then cook the broken spaghetti until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Be careful not to overcook.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooked spaghetti, shredded chicken, cream of mushroom soup, 1 cup of the grated cheddar cheese, green pepper, onion, pimentos, reserved broth, seasoned salt, cayenne, and salt and pepper to taste.
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Assemble: Pour the mixture into a casserole dish, ensuring even distribution. Top with the remaining 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese for a cheesy crust.
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Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 45 minutes or until the mixture is bubbly and the cheese is melted. If the cheese starts to over-brown, cover it with aluminum foil.
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Store: This casserole can be made ahead of time and stored. Cover and freeze for up to 6 months or refrigerate for up to 2 days before baking.
How to serve Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
To serve Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole, remove it from the oven and allow it to sit for about 10 minutes. This resting time helps the casserole set up nicely. Scoop generous portions onto plates or into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley, or additional cheddar cheese, if desired. This casserole pairs well with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
How to store Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Proper storage of your Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole can help maintain its delightful flavors. If you plan to eat it within two days, cover the casserole with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator. For long-term storage, allow the casserole to cool completely before wrapping it tightly and placing it in the freezer. It can be safely frozen for up to 6 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and follow the baking instructions provided above.
Tips to make Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
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Use Leftover Chicken: This casserole is a perfect way to use leftover rotisserie chicken or turkey. It can save you time on cooking.
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Add Vegetables: Feel free to add more vegetables such as mushrooms, peas, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
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Adjust Cheese: For a different cheese flavor, utilize mozzarella or gouda along with or in place of cheddar cheese.
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Spice it Up: If you enjoy some heat, increase the cayenne pepper, or add diced jalapeños to the mix.
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Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute the spaghetti with gluten-free noodles for those following a gluten-free diet.
Variation (if any)
You can easily create variations of this Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole to suit different tastes. For a Mexican twist, add black beans, corn, and taco seasoning, and top with pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar. For a Creamy Alfredo version, swap out the cream of mushroom soup for Alfredo sauce and add broccoli for an additional layer of flavor and texture.
FAQs
Can I cook this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time. Combine all the ingredients in the casserole dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking.
How long does Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole last in the fridge?
In the refrigerator, the casserole will last for up to 2 days when properly covered.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 6 months.
What can I serve with Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole?
This casserole goes well with a green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the chicken with cooked lentils or vegetarian crumbles and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Nutritional Information
- Servings: 8
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Calories: Approximately 400 calories per serving
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 850mg
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
In conclusion, Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a delightful addition to any meal plan. Its easy preparation and delicious flavors make it a favorite among families. Whether you are cooking for a crowd or just for your family, this casserole will be a hit. Try making it today!