My Famous Chicken Spaghetti That Everyone Loves

Introduction

There’s something truly special about sharing a meal that holds cherished memories, and my famous Chicken Spaghetti is one of those dishes that never fails to bring a smile to my family’s faces. Whenever I prepare this comforting casserole, the kitchen fills with warm, savory aromas that evoke nostalgia for family gatherings and cozy dinners. It’s a recipe passed down through generations, evolving with my own touches over the years. The creamy texture, combined with tender chicken and a melty cheese topping, creates a delicious balance of flavors that everyone loves. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive occasion, this Chicken Spaghetti is always a crowd-pleaser, and I can’t wait to share it with you!

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 3 cups dry spaghetti, broken into two-inch pieces
• 2 cans cream of mushroom soup
• 2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup finely diced green pepper
• 1/4 cup finely diced onion
• 1 jar (4-ounce) diced pimentos, drained
• 2 cups reserved chicken broth from pot
• 1 teaspoon Lawry’s Seasoned Salt
• 1/8 teaspoon (to 1/4 teaspoon) cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup additional grated sharp cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:

• Cook one cut-up fryer chicken in a large pot of water. Once fully cooked, remove the meat from the bones and shred it until you have about two cups of chicken. Reserve the broth.

1. Cook the Spaghetti:

• In the same pot with the reserved chicken broth, bring the liquid to a boil and add the dry spaghetti. Cook until al dente, taking care not to overcook. Drain and set aside.

1. Combine Ingredients:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked spaghetti, cream of mushroom soup, 2 cups of grated sharp cheddar cheese, diced green pepper, diced onion, drained pimentos, seasoned salt, cayenne pepper, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly coated.

1. Assemble the Casserole:

• Pour the mixture into a greased casserole pan and spread it out evenly. Top with the additional 1 cup of grated sharp cheddar cheese.

1. Bake or Store:

• You have three options at this point:
  • Bake Immediately: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 45 minutes or until bubbly. If the cheese on top starts to brown too much, cover it with foil.
  • Refrigerate: Cover and refrigerate for up to two days.
  • Freeze: Cover tightly and freeze for up to six months. If baking from frozen, extend the baking time and cover with foil for even cooking.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 8
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 350 kcal

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

How to Serve

• Garnish: Top with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh touch.
• Pairing: Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in airtight containers for quick lunches.
• Presentation: Serve directly from the casserole dish for a homestyle feel.
• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish in the oven until heated through.

Additional Tips

1. Use Rotisserie Chicken: To save time, consider using store-bought rotisserie chicken for convenience.
2. Customize Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition.
3. Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses such as Monterey Jack or Gouda for a unique flavor.
4. Spice Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper according to your preference for heat.
5. Make Ahead: This dish can be assembled ahead of time, making it perfect for busy nights or entertaining guests.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Chicken Spaghetti: Add more cayenne or chopped jalapeños for an extra kick.
• Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken with sautéed vegetables and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Creamy Alfredo Chicken Spaghetti: Swap cream of mushroom soup with Alfredo sauce for a richer flavor.
• Herbed Chicken Spaghetti: Add fresh herbs like basil or thyme to enhance the flavor profile.
• One-Pot Chicken Spaghetti: Cook everything in one pot by adding the spaghetti directly to the chicken mixture with broth for easier cleanup.

Serving Suggestions

• Family Dinners: Perfect for cozy family dinners or weeknight meals.
• Potlucks: Great dish for potlucks or gatherings; everyone will ask for the recipe!
• Meal Prep: Make a double batch and portion it out for easy meal prep throughout the week.
• Holiday Gatherings: An excellent choice for holiday meals where comfort food is key.
• Comfort Food: Ideal for chilly nights when you crave something warm and filling.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerating: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
• Freezing: This dish freezes well! Store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 6 months.
• Reheating Frozen Casserole: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking, or bake directly from frozen, extending the baking time by about 20-30 minutes.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use whole wheat spaghetti instead?
   Yes, whole wheat spaghetti is a great alternative for a healthier option.
2. What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?
   You can substitute it with cream of chicken soup or make your own cream sauce.
3. How do I know when the casserole is done?
   It should be bubbly and the cheese on top should be melted and slightly golden.
4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Yes, you can assemble it and store it in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to bake.
5. What type of chicken works best?
   You can use any cut of chicken, but breast meat is usually preferred for its tenderness.
6. Can I add more cheese?
   Absolutely! Feel free to add extra cheese for a cheesier flavor.
7. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
   Use gluten-free pasta and ensure that your broth and soup are gluten-free.
8. Can I use a different type of meat?
   Yes, shredded turkey or ham can also be used in place of chicken.
9. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
   Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
10. How long does it take to bake from frozen?
    If baking from frozen, it typically takes about 1 hour to bake thoroughly.

Conclusion

My Famous Chicken Spaghetti is more than just a dish; it’s a beloved recipe that brings warmth, comfort, and satisfaction to any table. With its creamy texture, tender chicken, and cheesy topping, it’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. The best part is its versatility, allowing you to adapt it to your family’s preferences or dietary needs. So, the next time you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare and delicious to eat, give this Chicken Spaghetti a try! Your family and friends will love it as much as mine do, and you’ll create lasting memories with every bite.

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