Chicken Tex-Ana
A hearty, cheesy chicken and spaghetti casserole packed with vegetables and rich flavors, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the chicken until cooked through; remove the bone and shred or chop the meat.
- Cook the spaghetti in chicken broth until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, combine the cream of mushroom soup, water or broth, chopped onion, chopped bell pepper, and chopped celery.
- Cook the mixture together for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Mix the cooked chicken, spaghetti, soup mixture, and 2 cups of grated cheese in a large bowl.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer the mixture to a well buttered casserole dish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 35 minutes, until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing the onion, bell pepper, and celery in a bit of olive oil before adding them to the soup mixture. You can substitute the whole chicken with rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation. If you're looking to lighten the dish, low-fat cream of mushroom soup and cheese can work well without sacrificing taste. This recipe pairs beautifully with Chicken And Shells.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken Tex-Ana is delicious on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Consider pairing it with Granny'S Cornbread Dressing for a comforting Southern experience. A light vinaigrette or garlic bread would also complement the dish nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave or transfer the casserole back to the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Adding a splash of broth can help maintain moisture during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Tex-Ana contains roughly 201 calories, with 7g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (56% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein.
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 a different type of pasta instead of spaghetti?
Yes, you can substitute spaghetti with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta's package instructions to ensure it's cooked al dente.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for a day before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
If you prefer a homemade option, you can create a simple white sauce using butter, flour, and milk, then add sautéed mushrooms for flavor. Alternatively, cream of chicken soup can also be used for a different taste.
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).