Colbert Place Chicken Spaghetti
Creamy chicken spaghetti combines tender chicken, colorful peppers, olives, and melted cheese in a comforting baked casserole, perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped celery, bell peppers, and onions in butter until tender.
- Boil spaghetti in reserved chicken broth until al dente.
- Drain the spaghetti, reserving additional broth if needed.
- Mix cooked spaghetti with sautéed vegetables, chopped olives, pimento, cream of chicken soup, Ro-Tel tomatoes, and melted Velveeta cheese.
- If the mixture is too thick, add some reserved chicken broth to loosen.
- Pour the mixture into a large casserole dish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for approximately 30 minutes.
- Optional: Top with grated Cheddar cheese before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavors, consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a bit of heat. You can substitute rotisserie chicken for the cooked and deboned chickens to save time. If you prefer a lighter version, swap half the Velveeta cheese for Greek yogurt or cottage cheese. This dish is versatile, so feel free to use any leftover vegetables you have on hand.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty chicken spaghetti pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad dressed in vinaigrette or some garlic bread for a complete meal. For an extra kick, serve with hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. You can also explore other comforting options like Baked Chicken With Chipped Beef to round out your dinner menu.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in a baking dish covered with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Colbert Place Chicken Spaghetti contains roughly 563 calories, with 5g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (55% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1086mg per serving (47% 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 dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Just assemble the mixture and store it covered in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of Velveeta cheese?
If you're looking for a substitute for Velveeta, try using a combination of cream cheese and shredded cheddar for a similar creamy texture. You can also use any melty cheese such as Monterey Jack or Gouda, keeping in mind that the flavor might differ slightly.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the chicken and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Substitute the cream of chicken soup with a plant-based version or make your own using blended silken tofu, and add extra vegetables for a nutritious boost.
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).