Chicken-Tel Casserole
A hearty casserole combining tender chicken, creamy Velveeta, spicy Ro-Tel, and pasta, perfect for family dinners or potlucks with bold flavors and comforting textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the hen in plenty of water until tender.
- Remove the hen from the water, bones, and chop the meat.
- Boil onion and bell pepper in butter until done.
- Combine cooked spaghetti, chopped chicken, Velveeta cubes, Ro-Tel tomatoes, peas, and cooked onion and pepper mixture.
- Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
- Bake at 325°F for 40 to 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using chicken broth instead of water when boiling the hen. If Velveeta isn't available, you can substitute with a creamy cheese blend or a homemade cheese sauce. Feel free to add vegetables like corn or black beans for extra nutrition and color. Adjust the spice level by choosing mild or hot Ro-Tel tomatoes based on your preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Chicken-Tel Casserole hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or green onions for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with Aunt Annie'S Relish Pickles for a tangy contrast. Consider a simple side salad or garlic bread to complete the meal. This dish is perfect for gatherings and can easily be doubled for larger crowds.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Chicken-Tel Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, covering them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken-Tel Casserole contains roughly 157 calories, with 6g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (165% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 982mg per serving (43% 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 leftover chicken instead of boiling a hen?
Absolutely! If you have leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken, simply chop it and add it to the mixture. This will save you time and still provide delicious flavor to the casserole.
Is there a vegetarian option for this casserole?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the hen with plant-based protein like chickpeas or tofu. Use a vegan cheese alternative instead of Velveeta, and ensure that all other ingredients are vegan-friendly to create a satisfying dish for vegan recipes.
Can I freeze the casserole for later?
Yes, you can freeze the Chicken-Tel Casserole before baking. Just assemble the ingredients in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed.
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).