Baked Chicken And Spaghetti
A comforting baked chicken and spaghetti dish with creamy cheese sauce, hearty soups, and tender chicken, perfect for family dinners and cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook chicken in 2 quarts of salted water until tender; remove from broth.
- Debone the chicken and cut into bite-sized serving pieces.
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions; drain.
- In a large saucepan, combine Velveeta cheese, two cans of milk, tomato soup, cream of mushroom soup, and cream of celery soup.
- Heat and stir until smooth and creamy.
- Add cooked chicken and cooked spaghetti to the sauce; mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic powder or Italian seasoning to the cheese sauce. If you prefer a lighter version, use reduced-fat Velveeta or substitute with a homemade cheese sauce. You can also replace chicken breasts with rotisserie chicken for a quicker option. This dish is versatile; feel free to mix in vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
This baked chicken and spaghetti pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed broccoli for a complete meal. For a heartier dish, consider serving it alongside garlic bread or a slice of crusty baguette. A glass of white wine or sparkling water works well to complement the creamy flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to retain moisture, heating at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Chicken And Spaghetti contains roughly 1193 calories, with 36g protein, 170g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (73% of the Daily Value), iron (62% of the Daily Value), and calcium (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1545mg per serving (67% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute spaghetti with other pasta shapes such as penne or fusilli. Just be sure to adjust cooking times according to the package instructions for the pasta you choose.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add extra vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for substance and flavor.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and store in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even heating.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).