Chicken Spaghetti For Company
A hearty, cheesy chicken spaghetti bake with vegetables and spicy tomatoes, perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, offering comforting flavors and versatile preparation.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil chicken until the meat easily comes off the bone.
- Cook spaghetti in chicken broth until al dente, then drain.
- Saute chopped celery, onions, green onions, and bell peppers in butter.
- Mix sauteed vegetables, canned Ro-Tel tomatoes, stewed tomatoes, cream of celery soups, pimento, and olives.
- Combine the mixture with cooked spaghetti.
- Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste.
- Layer half of the spaghetti mixture, cooked chicken, and grated cheese in a 9 x 13-inch baking dish, then repeat, ending with cheese on top.
- Bake at 250°F for 2 hours.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of cream cheese or sour cream to the mixture. If you're short on time, rotisserie chicken can be a great substitute for boiling and shredding chicken. You can also use different types of cheese if Velveeta isn't available, though the melting quality may differ. Adding a splash of hot sauce can give it a nice kick, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken Spaghetti pairs beautifully with a simple side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also serve it with steamed vegetables or a light coleslaw to balance the richness of the dish. For a festive touch, top with fresh parsley or additional green onions before serving. It’s a perfect dish for gatherings and potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in a baking dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out, then warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but be sure to add a little moisture if needed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Spaghetti For Company contains roughly 300 calories, with 16g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. At about 300 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 other types of cheese instead of Velveeta?
Yes, you can use other cheeses like cheddar or Monterey Jack, but keep in mind that they may not melt as smoothly as Velveeta. Mixing different cheeses can also enhance the flavor profile, just ensure they are shredded for even melting.
What can I do if the spaghetti absorbs too much liquid?
If you find that the spaghetti has absorbed too much liquid, you can add a splash of chicken broth or cream to the mixture before baking. This will help keep the dish moist and prevent it from becoming too dry during the baking process.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. Just allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before putting it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
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).