Lola'S Chicken-Spaghetti Casserole
Creamy chicken spaghetti casserole combines tender chicken, savory mushroom soup, and melted cheese, making it a comforting, family-friendly dish perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook and bone the chicken or use chicken breasts only.
- Cook the spaghetti as directed on the package.
- Prepare the soups, mushrooms, pimentos, and Velveeta cheese.
- Combine cooked chicken, cooked spaghetti, mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup or broth, chopped mushrooms, pimentos, and cheese in a baking dish.
- Mix well and bake at 350°F (175°C) until hot and bubbly, about 20-30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use cooked rotisserie chicken for a quicker prep time. If you prefer a healthier option, substitute whole wheat spaghetti for regular spaghetti. To enhance flavor, consider adding garlic powder and onion powder to the mixture. Feel free to swap out pimentos for diced bell peppers or olives if you prefer a different taste. This dish can also be made ahead and frozen for later use.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this comforting casserole with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A side of steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or green beans, pairs nicely as well. This dish also pairs beautifully with Donna'S Chicken Salad for a delightful lunch spread or potluck dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick reheating, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lola'S Chicken-Spaghetti Casserole contains roughly 82 calories, with 8g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (87% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 639mg per serving (28% 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 different types of pasta for this casserole?
Yes, you can substitute spaghetti with other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli. Just ensure the pasta is cooked al dente before baking to avoid mushiness. Each pasta shape will bring a unique texture to the casserole, so feel free to experiment.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with a variety of vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and spinach. Additionally, using vegetable broth instead of cream of chicken soup will help maintain the creaminess without any meat. This version is just as hearty and satisfying.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate until ready to bake. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you're starting from cold. This makes it perfect for meal prep or family gatherings.
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).