Chicken Nest
Chicken Nest combines tender shredded chicken, vermicelli pasta, and colorful vegetables in a flavorful broth, creating a comforting dish perfect for family dinners. Its savory taste and hearty ingredients make it an ideal choice for those seeking a satisfying, quick, and wholesome meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Arrange the nested vermicelli pasta in a skillet.
- Top with undrained chunk chicken, frozen peas, whole carrots, and sliced onion.
- Pour chicken broth over the ingredients.
- Sprinkle with tarragon.
- Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or bell peppers to the skillet. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the canned chicken with chickpeas or tofu. You can also use homemade chicken broth for extra depth. Ensure the vermicelli pasta is cooked just al dente to maintain texture. This dish is reminiscent of other comforting chicken recipes like Crowd Chicken Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Chicken Nest warm, garnished with fresh herbs for added flavor. It pairs well with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving alongside roasted vegetables. This dish can also be a great addition to potlucks, similar to recipes like Party Style Hot Chicken.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Chicken Nest can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying out, and cover until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Nest contains roughly 846 calories, with 22g protein, 127g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (222% of the Daily Value), iron (76% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (71% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1290mg per serving (56% 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 fresh chicken instead of canned chicken?
Yes, you can use cooked, shredded fresh chicken in place of canned chicken. Just ensure it's cooked through before adding it to the skillet. Adjust the cooking time to allow the chicken to heat through while simmering with the other ingredients.
What can I substitute for chicken broth?
If you don't have chicken broth, vegetable broth or water can be used as a substitute. For added flavor, consider mixing in a splash of soy sauce or additional spices to enhance the dish. Using a low-sodium option can help control the salt level.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate other vegetables such as bell peppers, corn, or even spinach for added nutrition. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as denser vegetables may require a little longer to soften.
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).