Denise'S Spaghetti And Chicken Casserole
Denise's Spaghetti and Chicken Casserole is a hearty, cheesy dish combining tender chicken, pasta, and vegetables, perfect for comforting family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti until al dente, then drain and break into 2-inch pieces.
- Mix together cooked chicken, diced pimento, diced green pepper, and chopped onion.
- Add cooked spaghetti, cream of mushroom soup, and chicken broth to the mixture.
- Season with salt and pepper, then add half of the grated Cheddar cheese and mix well.
- Transfer the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch baking dish and top with the remaining cheese.
- Refrigerate for 1 hour or overnight.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 30 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier casserole, consider adding a splash of milk or sour cream to the mixture. If you don’t have pimento, roasted red peppers can be a great substitute. You can also use any leftover cooked chicken or even rotisserie chicken for convenience. Feel free to mix in some vegetables like peas or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Corn-On-The-Cob And Chicken Dinner for a delightful family feast. For a heartier option, consider serving alongside Wild Rice Soup for a cozy dinner experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Denise'S Spaghetti And Chicken Casserole contains roughly 305 calories, with 9g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (199% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (36% of the Daily Value), and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1550mg per serving (67% 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 prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day ahead. Just assemble it, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until you are ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld and makes for an easy meal on a busy day.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Just ensure it is well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. When ready to cook, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as instructed, adding extra time if baking from frozen.
What can I use instead of Cheddar cheese?
If Cheddar isn’t your favorite, you can substitute with Monterey Jack or Mozzarella cheese for a milder flavor. For a sharper taste, try using Gruyere or a blend of Italian cheeses. Just ensure the cheese melts well for the best texture.
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).