Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Bake: Quick & Creamy Comfort

Chicken Spaghetti Recipe from Love With Recipes

Overview

Chicken Spaghetti is a delightful dish that combines the succulent flavors of tender chicken breast with the comforting texture of spaghetti. Enhanced by the tangy kick of Rotel and the creamy goodness of cheddar cheese, this recipe promises a harmonious blend of ingredients that will satisfy your taste buds. With a total preparation and cooking time of just 1 hour and 15 minutes, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner that’s both quick and delicious.

Recipe Details

• Name: Chicken Spaghetti
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Prep Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Description: Make and share this Chicken Spaghetti recipe from lovewithrecipes.com.
• Recipe Category: Chicken
• Keywords: Spaghetti, Poultry, Meat, Weeknight, Oven, < 4 Hours, Easy
• Aggregated Rating: 4.0
• Review Count: 1
• Calories: 780.9 per serving
• Fat Content: 34.8g
• Saturated Fat Content: 15.8g
• Cholesterol Content: 104.3mg
• Sodium Content: 2014.3mg
• Carbohydrate Content: 75.1g
• Fiber Content: 3g
• Sugar Content: 4g
• Protein Content: 40.8g

Ingredients

1. Chicken Breast: 1, cooked and shredded
2. Spaghetti: 1 pound, cooked according to package directions
3. Rotel: 1 can, undrained
4. Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups, shredded

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:

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   • Boil the chicken breast in a large pot of water for approximately 45 minutes or until it’s tender enough to be easily shredded.
   • Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside to cool.
   • When the chicken is cool enough to handle, shred it into coarse pieces using two forks or your hands.

2. Cook the Spaghetti:

   • Use the same water in which the chicken was boiled to cook the spaghetti. This step infuses the pasta with the rich flavor of the chicken.
   • Follow the package directions for cooking the spaghetti until al dente.

3. Combine Ingredients:

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked spaghetti, and the entire can of Rotel.
   • Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.

4. Bake the Dish:

   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Transfer the mixture to a 13 x 11-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
   • Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-30 minutes.

5. Add the Cheese:

   • After the initial baking time, remove the dish from the oven.
   • Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the spaghetti mixture.
   • Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Serve:

   • Allow the Chicken Spaghetti to cool for a few minutes before serving.
   • Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 780.9
• Fat: 34.8g
• Saturated Fat: 15.8g
• Cholesterol: 104.3mg
• Sodium: 2014.3mg
• Carbohydrates: 75.1g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4g
• Protein: 40.8g

Tips and Variations

1. Add Vegetables:

   • For a more nutritious twist, consider adding vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms. Sauté them lightly before mixing them with the chicken and spaghetti.

2. Use Different Cheeses:

   • While cheddar provides a classic flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses such as Monterey Jack, Mozzarella, or even a spicy Pepper Jack for an extra kick.

3. Spice It Up:

   • If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.

4. Make It Creamier:

   • For a creamier consistency, stir in a cup of sour cream or a can of cream of mushroom soup before baking.

5. Gluten-Free Option:

   • Substitute regular spaghetti with your favorite gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

6. Leftover Chicken:

   • This recipe is perfect for using up leftover chicken. Simply skip the boiling step and shred your leftover chicken to use in the recipe.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage:

  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating:

  • Reheat in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve this Chicken Spaghetti with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
• For an extra touch, top with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a few red pepper flakes just before serving.

Conclusion

This Chicken Spaghetti recipe is a versatile, hearty meal that combines the ease of preparation with rich, satisfying flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a casual get-together, this dish is sure to impress. Its blend of tender chicken, flavorful Rotel, and creamy cheese will make it a favorite in your household. Enjoy!

Feel free to ask if you need more details or additional tips on this recipe!