That sounds like a fantastic chicken spaghetti recipe! Here’s a breakdown of its construction, variations, and tips to make it even better.
Construction (How It Comes Together)
- Cook the Chicken – Boil a cut-up fryer chicken (or use rotisserie chicken for convenience). Shred into bite-sized pieces.
- Prepare the Pasta – Boil spaghetti in the reserved chicken broth for extra flavor. Drain and set aside.
- Mix the Ingredients – Combine cooked chicken, pasta, cream of mushroom soup, cheese, diced green pepper, onion, pimentos, and seasonings. Stir in 2 cups of chicken broth to keep it moist.
- Assemble the Casserole – Spread the mixture into a casserole dish and top with extra cheese.
- Bake – Cook at 350°F for about 45 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Variations
- Protein Swap – Use turkey instead of chicken, or even cooked ground beef for a twist.
- Soup Choices – Swap cream of mushroom for cream of chicken or cream of celery for a different flavor.
- Veggie Boost – Add mushrooms, peas, or roasted bell peppers for more texture and nutrients.
- Spicy Kick – Increase cayenne, add jalapeños, or mix in a can of Rotel tomatoes for a Tex-Mex spin.
- Cheese Variations – Try a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or Pepper Jack.
- Crunchy Topping – Add crushed Ritz crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or French-fried onions for extra texture.
Tips for the Best Chicken Spaghetti
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta – It will continue to cook in the oven, so keep it slightly firm.
- Use Good Cheese – Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded.
- Make Ahead & Freeze – This dish freezes well! Assemble and freeze unbaked; thaw overnight before baking.
- Moisture Control – If the casserole looks dry before baking, stir in a little more chicken broth or a splash of milk.
- For a Creamier Texture – Mix in some sour cream or a little cream cheese before baking.
Would you add anything else to make it your own?