Chicken Spaghetti

In the realm of comfort food, few dishes can rival the hearty warmth and simple delight of Chicken Spaghetti. This dish, a seamless blend of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked spaghetti, not only fills the stomach but also warms the soul. It’s a recipe that brings together the savory richness of chicken, the creamy texture of cheeses, and the tangy kick of tomatoes, making it a favorite across age groups and preferences.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 lb Velveeta cheese, regular or Mexican
• 1 can Rotel tomatoes, regular or hot (10 oz)
• 1 lb spaghetti pasta
• 1 stick butter
• 1 can cream of chicken soup, undiluted (10.5 oz)
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup, undiluted (10.5 oz)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper (red or green), chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Begin by boiling chicken breasts in a large pot with salt and pepper. Once fully cooked, remove the chicken, and let it cool before cutting it into bite-size pieces.
2. In the same broth, cook the spaghetti pasta as per the package instructions. Once done, drain and set aside.
3. Heat a stick of butter in a pot and sauté onion and bell pepper until they’re soft and fragrant.
4. To this, add the Rotel tomatoes, cream of chicken, and mushroom soup, and the cooked chicken. Stir well after each addition.
5. Fold in the spaghetti gently, followed by chunks of Velveeta cheese. Season with salt and pepper. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and blends into the spaghetti, making sure it doesn’t stick to the bottom.
6. Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese, alongside a crisp salad and warm garlic bread.

Tips & Notes:

• For a healthier version, opt for low-fat cheese and whole wheat spaghetti.
• Feel free to add a dash of garlic powder or Italian seasoning for an extra flavor kick.
• If the mixture seems too thick, a little chicken broth can help achieve the desired consistency.

Nutritional Information & Health Benefits

Chicken Spaghetti is more than just a tasty meal; it’s also packed with nutrients. Chicken is a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. The cheese and cream soups add calcium and vitamin D, important for bone health. Tomatoes provide vitamin C and potassium, while the bell peppers are rich in vitamins A and C, boosting immunity and skin health.

Nutrition Details

• Calories: Approximately 650-700 kcal
• Carbohydrates: About 75g, largely from the pasta and the soups
• Protein: Roughly 50g, thanks to the generous amount of chicken
• Fat: Around 20-25g, with a mix of saturated and unsaturated fats from the cheese, butter, and soups
• Saturated Fat: Approximately 10g, influenced by the cheese and butter
• Cholesterol: Close to 120mg, mainly from the chicken and cheese
• Sodium: High, about 1200-1500mg, due to the processed ingredients like Velveeta cheese, canned soups, and Rotel tomatoes
• Fiber: Around 5g, contributed by the vegetables and whole grain pasta (if used)
• Sugar: Low, roughly 8-10g, primarily from the tomatoes and onions
• Vitamin A & Vitamin C: Present in modest amounts, provided by the bell peppers and tomatoes
• Calcium: Around 300mg, thanks to the cheese and soups
• Iron: About 4mg, from the chicken and pasta

FAQs

Q: Can I make Chicken Spaghetti ahead of time? A: Absolutely! Prepare it ahead, store it in the fridge, and reheat when needed. It’s a great time-saver for busy days.

Q: How long can I store leftovers? A: Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s stored in an airtight container.

Q: Can I freeze Chicken Spaghetti? A: Yes, Chicken Spaghetti freezes well. Cool it down after cooking, transfer it to a freezer-safe container, and freeze. It can last up to 3 months.

Q: Is it possible to use a different type of pasta? A: Definitely! While spaghetti is traditional, feel free to use any pasta you have on hand. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Discover more delightful dishes like our Shrimp Spaghetti Recipe or your next meal.

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