Becky'S Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Becky's Chicken Spaghetti Casserole combines tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and pasta in a comforting baked dish perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the hen in enough water to make 2 quarts of stock.
- Saute minced onions, minced peppers, chopped celery, and crushed garlic in butter.
- Add 1 quart of chicken stock and canned tomatoes to the sauteed vegetables and simmer together.
- Bone the cooked chicken and cut into large pieces.
- Mix the chicken with the sauce and transfer to a casserole dish.
- Cook the spaghetti in chicken stock, drain before adding, and mix well with the chicken and sauce.
- Bake the casserole at 350°F for 40 minutes.
- Sprinkle with grated cheese and bake for an additional 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a can of cream of mushroom soup to the sauce mixture. You can substitute the hen with rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation. If you're out of spaghetti, any pasta like penne or fettuccine works well. For a vegetarian version, swap the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or a mix of your favorite vegetables and use vegetable stock instead.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan. It pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or garlic bread. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a side of K~Y Pie for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally. If the casserole seems dry, add a splash of chicken stock or broth before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Becky'S Chicken Spaghetti Casserole contains roughly 744 calories, with 12g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 68g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (23% 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I use instead of canned tomatoes?
If you don't have canned tomatoes, you can substitute with fresh tomatoes; just peel and chop about 4-5 medium-sized ones. Alternatively, crushed tomatoes or even tomato sauce can work in a pinch, adjusting seasoning as necessary.
Can I freeze the chicken spaghetti casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
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).