Chicken Catrizinni
A creamy, cheesy chicken casserole with a comforting mushroom gravy, perfect for family dinners and easy meal prep, blending savory soup, tender chicken, and pasta.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the chicken breasts into bite‑sized pieces and cook until lightly browned.
- Break the spaghetti into smaller pieces and boil until al dente.
- Dice the cheese into cubes.
- Sauté the onions and pepper in butter until softened; pour in the chicken broth, cream of mushroom soup, and mushroom pieces.
- Stir the mixture, then add the cheese and cook over low heat until mostly melted.
- Add the cooked chicken and spaghetti, stirring to combine thoroughly.
- Transfer the mixture to a large Pyrex dish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 30 minutes.
- Let the casserole rest before serving. It can be frozen for later use.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or using a flavored chicken broth. If American process cheese isn't available, a mix of cream cheese and cheddar can work well. To save time, rotisserie chicken can be used instead of cooking raw chicken. Make sure to stir the casserole halfway through baking for even heating.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Chicken Catrizinni with a side of garlic bread and a simple green salad for a complete meal. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds a nice touch. This dish pairs beautifully with Chicken Maryland for a comforting dinner spread. For a heartier option, consider serving with roasted vegetables.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. This dish can also be frozen for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Catrizinni contains roughly 628 calories, with 18g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 556mg per serving (24% 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 casserole ahead of time and store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge and bake as instructed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it's cold from the fridge.
Can I substitute the pasta?
Absolutely! If you prefer a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta or even zucchini noodles. Just remember that cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly to ensure the noodles are cooked perfectly.
What can I serve with Chicken Catrizinni?
This dish goes well with a variety of sides. Consider pairing it with a fresh garden salad, steamed broccoli, or even a light soup like Leek And Fennel Chowder With Smoked Salmon to start your meal. A glass of white wine also complements the flavors nicely.
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).