Chicken A La Cathy
Creamy chicken and mushroom pasta baked with American cheese and broccoli, offering comforting flavors perfect for family dinners and those craving hearty, cheesy dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Make chicken broth by steaming chicken breasts in 2 cups of water, then debone the chicken.
- Heat cream of mushroom soup, chicken a la king, chicken broth, and half a pound of grated American cheese until well combined.
- Add canned mushrooms to the mixture.
- Cook frozen broccoli and vermicelli spaghetti according to package instructions.
- Combine cooked pasta and broccoli with the sauce mixture.
- Transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding garlic powder or fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to the sauce mixture. If you want a lighter option, substitute low-fat cheese or use a dairy-free alternative. For a quicker prep, rotisserie chicken can replace the boiled chicken breasts. Additionally, you can swap the broccoli with another vegetable such as spinach or green beans for variation.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Chicken A La Cathy with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the dish. It pairs beautifully with N B C Soup (Noodles, Broccoli, Cheese) for a comforting meal. For an extra touch, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives on top before serving to brighten the presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel, heating in 30-second intervals until warmed through. For a crispy top, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated and the cheese is melted.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken A La Cathy contains roughly 283 calories, with 27g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (77% of the Daily Value), protein (53% of the Daily Value), and vitamin D (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 493mg per serving (21% 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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking step and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, just bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through completely.
What can I use instead of chicken a la king?
If you don't have chicken a la king, you can mix cooked chicken with cream, sautéed vegetables, and seasonings to create a similar consistency and flavor. Alternatively, using a creamy mushroom sauce could also provide a delicious base for the dish.
Is there a vegetarian version of Chicken A La Cathy?
Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with plant-based protein like chickpeas or tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Swap the cream of mushroom soup with a homemade or store-bought vegan cream soup to create a vegetarian-friendly version that retains the dish's creamy texture.
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).