This delectable dish, affectionately dubbed “NOT Weight Watchers Chicken Casserole,” is a culinary masterpiece that may not align with strict dietary regimens but promises to delight your taste buds with its rich flavors and hearty ingredients. With a prep time of 25 minutes and a total cook time of 50 minutes, this recipe falls under the “One Dish Meal” category, making it a convenient option for busy evenings when you crave a satisfying homemade meal without the hassle of multiple courses.
Ingredients:
- 2-3 boneless chicken breasts, cubed
- 1/2 pound of spaghetti noodles
- 3 cups of white sauce
- 1 cup of grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 clove of garlic, minced
- 1 green pepper, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons of chopped chives
Nutritional Information:
Per serving (6 servings total):
- Calories: 737
- Fat Content: 36.9g
- Saturated Fat Content: 13.1g
- Cholesterol Content: 135mg
- Sodium Content: 913.8mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 46.6g
- Fiber Content: 2.8g
- Sugar Content: 9.4g
- Protein Content: 52.6g
Instructions:
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Begin by boiling the spaghetti noodles until they reach the desired al dente texture. Once cooked, drain them and rinse under cold water to prevent further cooking and to remove excess starch.
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While the spaghetti is cooking, brown the cubed chicken breasts in a skillet with a drizzle of oil or margarine. This step can be done ahead of time, perhaps the night before, to streamline the cooking process.
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In a separate saucepan, prepare the white sauce. Once the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency, add the grated parmesan cheese and stir until it’s fully incorporated. This savory sauce will serve as the creamy base for your casserole.
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Now, it’s time to assemble the casserole. In a lasagna or large rectangular casserole dish, combine the cooked spaghetti, browned chicken cubes, and the prepared white sauce. Gently mix everything together until the spaghetti and chicken are evenly coated with the sauce.
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Next, sauté the diced green pepper, chopped onion, and minced garlic until they are tender and fragrant. Add this flavorful mixture to the spaghetti and chicken, distributing it evenly throughout the dish.
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Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top of the casserole, followed by the chopped chives for a pop of fresh herbaceous flavor.
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Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake it in a preheated oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for approximately 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
Once the casserole emerges from the oven, allow it to cool slightly before serving. Each forkful reveals a harmonious blend of tender chicken, al dente spaghetti, creamy white sauce, and vibrant vegetables, all crowned with gooey melted cheese and fragrant chives. While this recipe may not be tailored for those adhering to strict dietary guidelines, its indulgent flavors make it a worthy treat for special occasions or those moments when you crave a comforting homemade meal that’s made with love. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to savor every mouthful of this irresistible NOT Weight Watchers Chicken Casserole.
