Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti
Looking for a delicious and easy weeknight dinner idea? Look no further than this mouth-watering Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti recipe! Packed with cheesy goodness and tender chicken, this dish is sure to be a hit with your family.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can Rotel tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked chicken, cream of mushroom soup, Rotel tomatoes, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, chicken broth, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add cooked spaghetti to the chicken mixture and stir until well combined.
- Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish and sprinkle with additional cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutrition Information:
- Calories: 350
- Total Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 480mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 25g
Popular questions:
- Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
- Q: Can I use different types of cheese?
- Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of Rotel?
- Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken from the store?
- Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
- Q: Can I add vegetables to this dish?
- Q: Can I use low-fat ingredients for a healthier version?
- Q: Can I make this dish spicy?
- Q: Can I garnish with fresh herbs?
A: Yes, you can substitute spaghetti with your favorite pasta shape.
A: Absolutely, feel free to customize the cheese blend to your liking.
A: Yes, you can use fresh diced tomatoes or canned diced tomatoes with green chilies as a substitute.
A: Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake.
A: Yes, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken works well in this recipe.
A: Yes, this dish freezes well for future meals.
A: Feel free to add diced bell peppers, peas, or spinach for added nutrition.
A: Yes, you can use low-fat cheese, milk, and cream of mushroom soup for a lighter option.
A: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapenos for a spicy kick.
A: Fresh parsley or basil make great garnishes for added flavor.
Helpful Tips:
- Top with breadcrumbs before baking for a crunchy topping.
- Add cooked bacon or ham for extra flavor.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving for a boost of umami.
- Try using different types of pasta for a fun twist on the dish.
- Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Use leftover turkey in place of chicken for a post-Thanksgiving variation.
- Experiment with different cheese blends for unique flavor profiles.
- Cut back on the cheese for a lighter version of the dish.
- Make a double batch and freeze half for an easy future meal.
- Don’t overcook the pasta to ensure it stays al dente after baking.
Expert Secrets:
- Cook the spaghetti until it is just al dente to prevent mushy noodles in the final dish.
- Adjust the seasonings to your preference by adding more garlic powder, salt, and pepper as needed.
- If using fresh tomatoes, drain any excess liquid to prevent the dish from becoming too watery.
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.
- If the cheese begins to brown too quickly, cover the dish with foil to prevent burning.
- For a creamier dish, add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the chicken mixture.
- Customize the spice level by adding hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the chicken mixture.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add extra vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices such as basil, oregano, or thyme for a unique flavor profile.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness.