Italian Spaghetti Chicken
A hearty Italian-inspired chicken and spaghetti casserole layered with vegetables, tomato sauce, and melted cheese, perfect for family dinners or comforting gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the whole fryer chicken in enough broth to cook the other ingredients; season with salt and pepper.
- Cook until the chicken is tender, then remove from broth and debone.
- In the same broth, cook the chopped celery, onion, and bell pepper until tender.
- Add the large package of spaghetti, canned tomatoes, tomato juice, mushroom soup, chopped pimento, and chili powder to the broth and vegetable mixture.
- Cook until the spaghetti is tender, about 30 minutes.
- Add the deboned chicken to the mixture and cook for an additional 30 minutes.
- Transfer the mixture to a large baking pan.
- Sprinkle with 1/2 pound grated cheese on top.
- Bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding Italian herbs like basil or oregano to the broth while cooking the vegetables. If you don't have a fryer chicken, rotisserie chicken can be a great substitute, saving you time. You can also use whole wheat spaghetti for a healthier option or add more vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking, especially if using a larger pot.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Italian Spaghetti Chicken with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad to complement the flavors. For a heartier meal, consider pairing it with a glass of red wine. This dish also pairs beautifully with similar Italian recipes, such as Chunky Cheese Spaghetti or Crock-Pot Chicken Cacciatore, for a themed dinner night.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, use the microwave or stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure it's cooled completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Spaghetti Chicken contains roughly 305 calories, with 8g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (181% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (35% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 987mg 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 other types of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute spaghetti with other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed, since different pasta types may require different boiling times. Keep an eye on them to achieve your desired tenderness.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To increase the heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped jalapeños to the vegetable mixture. You can also use a spicier chili powder or even add a dash of hot sauce when serving to customize the heat level to your preference.
Is it possible to make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! To adapt this recipe for a slow cooker, simply combine all ingredients in the cooker, including the whole chicken, and set it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This method will keep the chicken moist and flavorful while allowing the spaghetti to absorb all the delicious broth.
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).