Nina Bemus' Favorite Chicken Spaghetti
A hearty chicken spaghetti casserole packed with tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and melted cheese, perfect for comforting family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Stew the hen with salt, pepper, and a stalk of celery until tender. Cool and remove bones; cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Cook chopped green peppers, celery, and onions in a small amount of broth until tender.
- Add chili powder, mushroom soup, chopped mushrooms, and pimentos to the vegetable mixture.
- Cook spaghetti according to the package instructions.
- Mix the cooked chicken, vegetables with the spaghetti together in a large bowl.
- Pour the mixture into a large casserole dish.
- Cover with grated sharp Cheddar cheese and bake at 350°F until the mixture bubbles.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought. If you don’t have a stewing hen, rotisserie chicken can be a convenient substitute. You can also experiment with different types of cheese; mozzarella or Monterey Jack are great alternatives to sharp Cheddar. To enhance the dish, a pinch of cayenne pepper can add a nice kick.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this comforting chicken spaghetti alongside a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Maple Pecan Shortbreads for dessert. For a heartier option, consider adding steamed broccoli or a side of roasted vegetables to enhance the meal's nutrition.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the dish in the oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture and prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nina Bemus' Favorite Chicken Spaghetti contains roughly 373 calories, with 17g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (104% of the Daily Value), vitamin D (76% of the Daily Value), and protein (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 953mg per serving (41% 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 use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta are also great alternatives if you're looking for healthier options.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with plant-based protein, such as mushrooms or lentils, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add more vegetables like zucchini or spinach for a nutritious boost.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken, sauce, and pasta separately, then combine them in the casserole dish before baking. Cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
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).