Quick Chicken Spaghetti
A quick and comforting chicken spaghetti casserole featuring tender chicken, creamy soup, and colorful vegetables, perfect for busy weeknights and satisfying family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions; drain.
- Add cheese sauce to the cooked spaghetti.
- Saute chopped onion and bell pepper in butter until tender.
- Combine cooked vegetables with cream of chicken soup, chicken, and pimento.
- Pour mixture into a casserole dish and bake for 20 to 25 minutes at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or spices like paprika to the sautéed onions and peppers. If you prefer, you can substitute the canned chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken for a fresher taste. If you don't have cream of chicken soup, a homemade white sauce can work well. This dish can also be made vegetarian by omitting the chicken and using vegetable broth instead.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty chicken spaghetti with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Another Squash Casserole for a comforting dinner. For added freshness, you can sprinkle some chopped parsley or grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick Chicken Spaghetti contains roughly 131 calories, with 5g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (149% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2146mg per serving (93% 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 whole wheat spaghetti instead of regular spaghetti?
Yes, whole wheat spaghetti can be used as a healthier alternative. It will add more fiber and a slightly nuttier flavor to the dish. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as whole wheat pasta may require a bit longer to cook until al dente.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! You can add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the vegetable mixture for some heat. Additionally, consider using pepper jack cheese in place of the cheese sauce for an extra kick. Adjust the amount according to your spice tolerance.
What can I serve as a side dish?
A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs well with this chicken spaghetti. You could also serve it with steamed vegetables or roasted broccoli for added nutrition. If you're in the mood for comfort food, some cheesy garlic bread would complement this dish perfectly.
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).