Mary'S Chicken Spaghetti
A creamy, comforting chicken spaghetti dish with melted cheese, colorful peppers, and savory flavors, perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the chicken breasts until cooked through, then set aside to cool.
- Cook the spaghetti in chicken broth until al dente, then drain.
- Saute the small onion, bell pepper, and celery in a small amount of butter until tender.
- Mix the Velveeta cheese and cream of mushroom soup in a pan over low heat until the cheese melts and forms a creamy sauce.
- Shred or chop the cooked chicken and add it to the sauce.
- Combine the cooked spaghetti with the chicken and cheese sauce, mixing well.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider seasoning the chicken with herbs like thyme or rosemary while boiling. If you're short on time, rotisserie chicken can be a great substitute for boiled chicken. For a healthier twist, you could use whole wheat spaghetti or swap Velveeta with a mix of shredded cheddar and cream cheese. Adjust the amount of celery based on personal preference.
Serving Suggestions
This chicken spaghetti pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For added flavor, serve with garlic bread or a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top. It’s also a great dish for potlucks or family gatherings, making it a versatile choice among chicken recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chicken spaghetti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to maintain creaminess. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mary'S Chicken Spaghetti contains roughly 590 calories, with 23g protein, 77g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (46% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (44% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1006mg per serving (44% 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 a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute spaghetti with other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type. Keep in mind that different shapes can also alter the texture and the way the sauce clings to the pasta.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, storing them separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply cook the spaghetti and combine everything. This makes it perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd without the last-minute rush.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can create a vegetarian version by replacing chicken with plant-based proteins like tofu or chickpeas. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and you can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a homemade or store-bought vegetarian version. This will keep the dish hearty and flavorful.
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).