Cheddar Chicken Spaghetti
Cheddar Chicken Spaghetti is a creamy, cheesy casserole combining tender chicken, flavorful pimentos, and pasta topped with melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners, it offers comforting flavors with a hint of richness. Quick to prepare and satisfying, it's a crowd-pleasing dish for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti according to package directions.
- Meanwhile, in a bowl, combine cooked chicken, 1 cup shredded cheese, cream of chicken soup, milk, diced pimentos, salt, and pepper.
- Drain the cooked spaghetti and add it to the chicken mixture, tossing to coat.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle with the remaining cheese on top.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 20 to 25 minutes or until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more milk or a dollop of sour cream. You can substitute the cooked chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience. Feel free to mix in some vegetables like spinach or broccoli to enhance nutrition and flavor. If you want a spicier kick, add jalapeños or red pepper flakes. This dish pairs beautifully with American recipes like Texas-Style Potatoes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Cheddar Chicken Spaghetti alongside a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It also pairs well with roasted vegetables for added flavor and texture. For a heartier option, try serving it with a side of Holiday Squash, which complements the creamy cheese sauce perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk to prevent drying out and heat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. If using the oven, cover with foil to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheddar Chicken Spaghetti contains roughly 243 calories, with 7g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (80% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 611mg per serving (27% 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 types like penne, rotini, or even whole wheat pasta. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta you choose.
Is there a vegetarian option for this dish?
Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or a mix of your favorite vegetables. Additionally, use vegetable broth instead of chicken soup for a delicious vegetarian version.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just assemble everything in the baking dish, cover it tightly, and bake it when you're ready. It may require a few extra minutes in the oven if baking straight from the fridge.
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).