Nita'S Chicken Spaghetti
Creamy, savory chicken spaghetti baked with mushrooms, peppers, and cheese, offering comforting flavors perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the cream of celery, cream of mushroom, and cream of chicken soups with the tomato sauce and can of tomatoes in a saucepan and heat.
- Saute together chopped onion, mushroom stems, and chopped bell pepper.
- Add the sautéed vegetables to the soup mixture and stir well.
- Combine cooked spaghetti and deboned, cooked chicken in a large casserole dish.
- Pour the soup mixture over the spaghetti and chicken, then top with grated cheese.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F until hot, bubbly, and the cheese has melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or sour cream to the soup mixture. You can substitute the cream of soups with homemade versions if preferred. Fresh vegetables can also be added for extra flavor, such as bell peppers or spinach. This dish is versatile and can be adjusted to your taste, similar to Chicken Cheddar Rice Bake.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is perfect as a main course and pairs well with garlic bread or a fresh green salad for balance. For a complete meal, serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a light vinaigrette salad. It also makes for great leftovers, similar to Turkey Divan Casserole, which is ideal for lunch the next day.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover to retain moisture, warming in 1-minute intervals until heated through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot, which helps maintain the cheese's texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nita'S Chicken Spaghetti contains roughly 110 calories, with 3g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (61% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A.
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 instead of spaghetti?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is a classic choice, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or rotini. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type to achieve the desired texture.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the entire dish a day in advance. Simply assemble it in the casserole dish, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I do if I have leftover chicken?
Leftover chicken works perfectly in this recipe! Simply shred or chop your leftover chicken and incorporate it into the casserole as directed. This not only saves time but also adds flavor, making it a great option for utilizing leftovers.
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).