Spicy Chicken Spaghetti
Spicy Chicken Spaghetti is a hearty, cheesy casserole blending tender chicken, flavorful peppers and onions, and a touch of heat from Ro-Tel tomatoes. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, it offers a comforting and satisfying meal with rich cheese and savory spices.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cover and cook the 5 to 6 lb hen until tender; remove and debone.
- Cook spaghetti in broth; you may need to add water, and do not drain.
- Saute green peppers and onions in butter for 45 minutes on low heat.
- Add the sautéed peppers and onions to the spaghetti, along with the juice from the peas.
- Add chopped chicken and Ro-Tel tomatoes to the mixture.
- Add Velveeta cheese in hunks; transfer everything to a greased casserole dish.
- Bake in a hot oven at 350°F until the cheese melts, covering if necessary.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider marinating the chicken in spices overnight. If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute the Velveeta cheese with a lower-fat cheese or a dairy-free alternative. For added heat, feel free to include some diced jalapeños along with the green peppers. This dish can also be made with whole grain spaghetti for a healthier twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Spicy Chicken Spaghetti with a side salad for a refreshing contrast, or pair it with garlic bread for a hearty meal. It also goes well with a light white wine. For a fun dessert, consider following up with Nut And Jam Cake to balance the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store 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 increments until warmed through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, covering with foil to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spicy Chicken Spaghetti contains roughly 835 calories, with 28g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 58g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (71% of the Daily Value) and protein (56% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 547mg per serving (24% 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 other types of cheese instead of Velveeta?
Yes, you can use shredded cheddar or mozzarella for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary, and you may need to adjust the amount to achieve the desired creaminess.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini. You can also use vegetable broth for cooking the spaghetti and add extra cheese for richness.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to cover it tightly. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven.
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).