Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe | The Leaf
Dive into a family favorite that promises to warm your heart as much as it fills your stomach: Chicken Spaghetti Casserole. This dish blends tender chicken, creamy sauce and perfectly cooked spaghetti, all baked under a golden, cheesy crust that’s irresistibly crispy on the edges and satisfyingly gooey in the middle.
Whether you’re looking for a delicious way to use up leftover chicken or simply in need of a hearty meal that the whole family will adore, this Chicken Spaghetti Casserole recipe is your ticket to a delightful dinner. It’s a versatile dish that allows you to mix in your favorite veggies or tweak the flavors to suit your taste buds. Gather your ingredients and get ready to create a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!
Healthy and Hearty Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
Introducing a delightful twist on a classic comfort dish, the Chicken Spaghetti Casserole. Perfect for serving up to eight people, each serving contains only 265 calories, making it a smart choice for those on a weight loss plan. On Nutrisystem, this dish counts as one SmartCarb, two PowerFuels and one Vegetable, blending nutrition with mouth-watering flavors.
Key Ingredients for Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
The recipe starts with a base of aromatic vegetables and seasonings. You’ll need olive oil, chopped onion, chopped green bell pepper, diced mushrooms, black pepper and Italian seasoning to create a rich and savory foundation. The thickening agent is whole wheat flour, which is mixed into the vegetables after they’ve softened in the sauté.
How to Make a Low-Calorie Creamy Sauce
The creamy sauce is a combination of low-sodium chicken broth and milk, simmered until thick. Into this mixture, you’ll stir in cooked whole wheat spaghetti and cooked chicken, either diced or shredded. Half of the shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese is mixed in at this stage, ensuring every bite is packed with cheesy goodness.
Baking Instructions for Optimal Flavor
To cook this spaghetti casserole, preheat your oven to 400 degrees and grease a baking dish. Transfer the pasta mixture into the dish, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, and bake for 15 minutes until everything is wonderfully bubbly and the cheese is golden. This Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is not just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace in the form of a hearty, wholesome dish.
Customizing Your Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
One of the joys of cooking is making a recipe your own, and this Chicken Spaghetti Casserole offers plenty of opportunities for customization to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
Vary the Proteins
While chicken is a lean and tasty option, you can easily substitute it with other proteins. Try using turkey for a lower-fat alternative, or go vegetarian by adding plant-based protein sources like tofu or a mix of beans. For seafood lovers, shrimp makes a delicious addition as well.
Add More Vegetables
Boost the nutritional content and color of your casserole by incorporating more vegetables. Spinach, zucchini and red bell peppers not only add beautiful colors but also enhance the flavors and make the dish more filling. You can also stir in some frozen peas or carrots for a sweet pop of flavor.
Change Up the Cheese
Cheddar cheese provides a nice sharpness, but experimenting with different cheeses can transform the flavor profile of your casserole. Try mozzarella for a mild taste, or a smoked provolone for a deeper, smoky flavor. Mixing in some Parmesan can add a nutty, salty touch that complements the Italian seasonings beautifully.
Experiment with the Sauce
To change the base flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce for a bit of acidity and depth. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a dash of red pepper flakes or a spoonful of spicy salsa can liven up the dish. If you’re a fan of herbs, adding fresh basil, thyme or oregano can give the casserole a fresh, aromatic lift.
Low-Carb Options
If you’re watching your carb intake, spaghetti squash or zucchini noodles make excellent substitutes that will keep the dish hearty and satisfying without the extra carbs.
By tweaking these elements, you can enjoy a different version of this casserole every time you make it, keeping your meals exciting and tailored to your dietary needs. Consult the Nutrisystem Grocery Guide for more information on counting ingredient swaps and add-ins on your plan.
If you enjoyed this hearty, homemade meal, you’ll love our Philly Cheesesteak Casserole recipe!
