Succulent Scalloped Chicken: A Hearty Meal in One Dish
Picture this: it’s a Saturday night, and you’re looking to host a party that’ll leave your guests’ taste buds dancing with joy. You want to whip up something that’s quick, delicious, and sure to please everyone – but what could it be? Fear not, as I have the perfect recipe for you: scalloped chicken and spaghetti.
This recipe is my go-to when I’m throwing a party or hosting a dinner, and it never fails to leave my guests asking for more. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful stewed tomatoes, and creamy mushroom sauce is simply irresistible.
But what I love most about this dish is its versatility. It works just as well as the centerpiece of a fancy dinner party as it does for a cozy night in with family or friends. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make – so even if you’re not an experienced chef, you’ll be able to impress your guests with this one.
So why settle for boring old spaghetti when you can add a touch of flavor and elegance to your meal with this scalloped chicken and spaghetti recipe? Trust me – once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever hosted a party without it.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you tired of the same boring chicken spaghetti recipe? Do you want to impress your guests with a delicious and unique pasta dish? Look no further than this Scalloped Chicken and Spaghetti recipe!
What’s not to love about this scrumptious meal? Tender chicken, creamy mushroom sauce, and tangy stewed tomatoes all combine perfectly to create a mouth-watering flavor explosion in every bite. And let’s not forget about the delectable white cheddar cheese that brings everything together in one ooey-gooey, cheesy masterpiece.
But don’t just take my word for it – this dish has been tested and approved by a variety of taste buds. From food critics to picky eaters, everyone raves about the savory flavors of this warm and comforting pasta casserole.
Not only is it easy to make, but it also yields plenty of servings, making it perfect for feeding a crowd. Plus, the ingredients are budget-friendly and can be easily found at any grocery store.
So whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want to treat yourself to something special, make sure to give this Scalloped Chicken and Spaghetti recipe a try. Trust me, your taste buds (and guests) will thank you.
Ingredient List
No dish can be accomplished without the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to make the Scalloped Chicken and Spaghetti Recipe:
- 1/4 pound spaghetti noodles, broken into two-inch pieces
- 4 cups chopped cooked chicken
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1/4 cup butter, divided
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 1 garlic clove, chopped
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 2 cups flour
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 1/3 cup white cheddar cheese
- 1 can stewed tomatoes
- Salt
- Pepper
- Paprika
Notice how I put some phrases in bold. That’s because these ones are important in our recipe. The first one divided butter will help us prepare the pasta sauce and give it richness and flavor. The flour is also an essential component of our sauce as it thickens it up nicely. Finally, we’ll add some white cheddar cheese to the mix to create a creamy texture and a nutty taste that pairs perfectly with our chicken and spaghetti.
The Recipe How-To
Let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of the recipe so that you can recreate my scalloped chicken and spaghetti recipe like a pro. In this section, I’ll be breaking down the steps into easy chunks so that even if you’re new to the game, you’ll be able to create a scrumptious meal. Here is how to make chicken spaghetti casserole:
Ingredients:
- 4 cups cooked chicken
- 2 cups uncooked spaghetti broken into two-inch pieces
- 1 chopped onion
- 1 sliced mushroom
- 3 garlic cloves chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth (use low-sodium)
- 1/4 cup flour
- 3/4 cup butter divided
- 2 cups shredded white cheddar cheese
- Salt and Black pepper to taste
- Paprika for garnishing
Instructions:
Step 1 – Preheat your oven: Set your oven temperature to 350°F.
Step 2 – Marinate the chicken: Sprinkle salt, paprika and brush some olive oil on the chicken breast pieces and bake it in the oven for 20 minutes. Once done, take it out of the oven and allow it to cool. Shred it into small pieces and keep aside.
Step 3 – Cook spaghetti: While your chicken is marinating, add uncooked spaghetti into a pot of boiling water with a pinch of salt, cook for 8 minutes until they are soft. Drain the water and keep aside.
Step 4 – Sauté onion, garlic, and mushrooms: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter then add finely chopped onion, sliced mushrooms, and garlic; sauté for 5 mins or until tender.
Step 5 – Make a roux: Add in 1/4 cup of flour, stir until it mixes well with sautéed onions mix. Keep stirring constantly for about 2 minutes or until browned.
Step 6 – Add chicken stock: Pour 4 cups low-sodium chicken stock while stirring constantly. Simmer it for about 10 minutes, till the mixture gets thickened. Season it with salt and black pepper as per taste.
Step 7 – Make Creamy Sauce: Stir in remaining butter, shredded white cheddar cheese, heavy cream till well combined.
Step 8 – Mix everything together: Combine cooked shredded chicken meat into pan vegetable mixture including boiled spaghetti noodles tossed with sauce tender chicken noodles; Mix everything nicely.
Step 9 – Bake & garnish: Grease an ovenproof dish with cooking spray and pour mixture into it. Sprinkle some paprika on top of mixture Bake it for 25 minutes uncovered, or until hot and bubbly in preheated oven @350F.
Now that we’ve completed all of these steps, let’s talk
Substitutions and Variations
Are you looking to switch up this scalloped chicken and spaghetti recipe? Don’t be afraid to get creative – it’s the spice of life, after all! Here are some substitution and variation ideas that will give your taste buds something exciting to chew on:
– Swap out the chicken: Looking for a vegetarian or vegan option? Substitute the chicken with mushrooms, tofu, or tempeh.
– Spice up the sauce: Give your dish a kick by adding some cumin, chili powder, or your favorite hot sauce to the cream of mushroom soup.
– Cheese swap: Try using different types of cheese such as gouda, feta, or blue cheese instead of cheddar cheese. You can also mix in grated parmesan or asiago for a sharper taste.
– Add some veggies: Toss in some sauteed spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrients and flavor.
– Use a different pasta: If you’re not a fan of spaghetti noodles, switch it up with penne or rigatoni. You could also try using gluten-free pasta if you have dietary restrictions.
– Experiment with spices: For added flavor, experimentation is key. Try adding paprika, oregano or lemon pepper seasoning to the dish. Even better, why not try lemon garlic scallops for an intriguing twist?
Remember that recipe ingredients are guidelines- don’t be afraid to customize the dish to your liking! With nearly 32 different recipes including baked chicken and noodle casserole under its belt, be sure to let this recipe inspire you rather than limit you.
Serving and Pairing
When it comes to serving and pairing scalloped chicken and spaghetti recipe, there are a ton of options to choose from! This rich, savory dish pairs well with a variety of sides, salads and drinks, making it perfect for any gathering or occasion.
One of my favorite ways to serve scalloped chicken and spaghetti is with a simple green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette. The crispness of the greens helps balance out the creaminess of the dish, while the tangy dressing adds an extra layer of flavor.
Another classic side dish that goes great with this pasta recipe is garlic bread. A warm slice, slathered with butter and sprinkled with garlic powder is just what you need to round out this cozy meal.
If you’re looking for something on the healthier side, roasted vegetables are an excellent complement to this hearty dish. Try serving it alongside some roasted asparagus or broccoli for an added boost of nutrients.
And of course, no meal is complete without a drink to wash it down! I suggest pairing this mouthwatering recipe with a tall glass of red wine. A bold Shiraz or a smooth Merlot would do the trick nicely.
Overall, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just cooking for your family on a weeknight, scalloped chicken and spaghetti is sure to please any crowd. Don’t be afraid to get creative when it comes to serving and pairing – the possibilities are truly endless!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Imagine you spend hours cooking an extravagant meal but some guests cancel last minute. The worst that can happen is to not be able to enjoy your delicious food later. Well, worry no more! This Scalloped Chicken and Spaghetti recipe allows you to prepare ahead of time, for those unexpected situations.
To make-ahead, you can prepare the entire recipe and transfer it into a casserole dish that is oven-safe. Then, cover with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. On the day of serving, just remove it from the refrigerator and add an extra 10-15 minutes of cooking time.
Storing leftovers is also very easy. Keep them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. If you need long-term storage, consider placing them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
For reheating, you can use the microwave or the oven. If using a microwave, heat the dish until it’s hot all the way through while stirring every minute. If using an oven, preheat it to 350°F and bake the covered dish for about 20-25 minutes or until it’s heated all the way through.
Keep in mind that reheating may affect the texture of the pasta and chicken, so we recommend adding some fresh cheese on top and spices like paprika or garlic powder to help revive those flavors.
Now you know how to make this recipe work according to your schedule without sacrificing taste. Enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Results
You can make your Scallop Chicken and Spaghetti Recipe even more perfect with these tips. Trust me, I am a home chef who has hosted dozens of parties and perfected this recipe over time. Here are my best methods for ensuring delicious and well-cooked results.
1. Don’t Overcook the Spaghetti
One of the most common mistakes when making spaghetti is overcooking it. This can leave your spaghetti noodles limp and unappetizing. To avoid this, cook your spaghetti noodles for one to two minutes less than what the packaging recommends. It will continue to cook when combined with the other ingredients later on.
2. Use High-Quality Ingredients
When it comes to cooking, using high-quality ingredients can make a big difference in the taste of your dish. Opt for fresh ingredients like garlic, onion, mushroom, and chicken stock. Choose a sharp white cheddar cheese that will complement the other flavors in the dish.
3. Add Paprika for Flavor
Paprika is a powerful spice that can add depth of flavor to almost any dish. When making scalloped chicken and spaghetti recipe, don’t be afraid to sprinkle in a bit of paprika. It will balance out the rich cheesy flavors and complement the tartness of the stewed tomatoes.
4. Let it Cool Before Serving
Allowing your scallop chicken pasta casserole to cool before serving it can make it easier to cut into neat slices or ladle into bowls without falling apart or becoming too soupy. The dish should be allowed to rest for at least fifteen minutes between baking and serving (or up to two hours if being reheated).
5. Experiment with Variation
This recipe is versatile and can handle a variety of variations depending on your taste preferences and dietary restrictions. Substitute out wheat pasta for gluten-free alternatives or try using diced tomatoes instead of stewed tomatoes (or vice versa). Add in some chopped spinach or kale for extra nutrition as well.
By following these five tips, you’ll be able to make the best Scallop Chicken and Spaghetti Recipe yet! Experiment and have fun in your kitchen adding your own twists to this recipe till it makes you feel like royalty with every bite you take!
Bottom Line
So, there you have it! This Scalloped Chicken and Spaghetti recipe is a game-changer for any home cook who wants to impress their guests or just satisfy their family’s appetite. With its creamy texture, tender chicken, and cheesy flavor, this dish is sure to please everyone.
Don’t be intimidated by the long ingredient list or the detailed instructions. As with anything worth doing, it takes a little bit of effort to get the perfect result. But I promise you, it’s well worth it!
So come on, give this delicious recipe a try! And don’t be afraid to get creative with your substitutions and variations. The possibilities are endless. Share your results with me in the comments below and let me know how it turns out. Happy cooking!
Scalloped Chicken and Spaghetti Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup butter
- 1/4 cup onion, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, chopped
- 1 cup mushroom, sliced (about 1/4 pound)
- 1/4 cup flour
- 2 cups chicken stock
- salt and pepper
- 2 -3 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup stewed tomatoes (canned)
- 1/4 lb cheddar cheese, grated
- 8 -9 ounces spaghetti, noodes (cooked)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (buttered)
- 1 dash paprika
Instructions
- Heat butter and add onions, garlic and mushrooms - cook about 10 minutes or until soft and lightly browned.
- Add flour and stir until blended; slowly add stock and stir over low heat until thick and smooth; season to taste.
- Add chicken, tomatoes & cheese. Arrange chicken mixture and cooked spaghetti noodles in layers in a greased casserole. Top with buttered crumbs and a dash of paprika.
- Bake in a moderate oven (375 degrees F) about 25 minutes or until browned.
Your Own Notes
Nutrition
Recommended Recipes Just For You
Anna is a culinary expert who specializes in grilling delicious BBQ dishes. She also enjoys sharing her recipes and experiences with her foodie community on her blog. She’s the total package for any backyard barbecue!