Chicken & Spaghetti Casserole
This Chicken & Spaghetti Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that combines tender chicken with spaghetti and a savory tomato sauce. The blend of onions, bell peppers, and garlic salt adds depth to the flavor, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions, then set aside.
- Cook chicken breasts until fully cooked, cool, and chop into pieces.
- In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of oleo and sauté the onions, bell pepper, and celery until softened.
- Add the canned tomatoes and chicken broth to the skillet, along with garlic salt. Cook for 20 minutes.
- Stir in the cooked spaghetti and chopped chicken, mixing well.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using roasted chicken or adding herbs like oregano and thyme to the sauce. If you're short on time, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken works well as a substitute for the chicken breasts. You can also mix in vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition. Using whole wheat spaghetti can enhance the dish's health benefits as well, making it a heartier option.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken & Spaghetti Casserole is perfect for a family dinner and pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a lighter option, serve it with steamed broccoli or a fresh Light And Crunchy Chicken Salad. It's a versatile dish that can also be enjoyed as a comforting lunch the next day.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes or until heated through, stirring halfway. Alternatively, you can reheat the entire casserole in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken & Spaghetti Casserole contains roughly 304 calories, with 11g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (152% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (22% of the Daily Value), and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 628mg 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake it. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights.
What can I use instead of chicken broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth, vegetable broth or even water can be used as a substitute. For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine or even a bit of soy sauce, depending on your taste preferences.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely before wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking in the oven until heated through.
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).