Pioneer Lady Chicken Spaghetti

Craving Comfort? Let's Talk Chicken Spaghetti!

Ever just crave something super comforting? Honestly, I do. Today, we're diving into pioneer lady chicken spaghetti . Think warm, creamy, and totally satisfying. It’s like a big hug in a bowl!

What's the Story Behind This Deliciousness?

This dish isn't some fancy pants thing. It's comfort food chicken spaghetti at its finest. Probably came from some church potluck, you know? It’s simple, easy chicken spaghetti recipe , and utterly delicious.

We’re talking about a classic southern chicken spaghetti tradition. It takes about an hour, start to finish. This recipe feeds around 6 hungry folks.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This isn't just food; it's soul food. It's packed with protein. Perfect for a cozy family dinner. Honestly? It’s that creamy chicken spaghetti recipe that everyone asks for.

Let's Get Cooking!

Ready to dive in? Let's talk about what you'll need. It's mostly stuff you probably already have. Next up, we will cover the ingredients.

Did you know? Chicken spaghetti has been a staple in the American South for generations!

Let's Talk Pioneer Lady Chicken Spaghetti: Ingredients & Equipment

Right, so we're tackling pioneer lady chicken spaghetti . Think Midwest potluck, comfort food to the max! This is basically the creamy chicken spaghetti recipe of my dreams.

Oh my gosh, this takes me back. Picture me, ten years old, at every church function... this was always there.

Main Ingredients Breakdown

Alright, here's the lowdown for your family dinner chicken spaghetti . We'll break it down stage by stage, so you don't get overwhelmed.

• Chicken : About 2-3 cooked chicken breasts (around 500-700g ). You want it shredded. The quality matters! Get good chicken. Free range if you can. It honestly makes a difference.
• Spaghetti : 1 pound (about 450g ) of regular spaghetti. Honestly, any shape works if you are feeling wild.
• Veggies : 1 medium onion (chopped, about 1 cup ), 1 green bell pepper (chopped, about 1 cup ). Fresh is best. If they are looking a little sad, don't use them.

For the sauce that makes this comfort food chicken spaghetti truly special:

• Cream of Mushroom Soup : 2 cans ( 10.75 ounces/305g each). The classic choice.
• Cream of Chicken Soup : 1 can ( 10.75 ounces/305g ). Yep, more creaminess!
• Rotel : 1 can ( 10 ounces/283g ) of diced tomatoes and green chilies. This is key for that Southern chicken spaghetti flavor. Don't skip it.
• Cheddar Cheese : 2 cups (about 225g ), shredded. Sharp cheddar gives it a nice kick.

Seasoning & Flavor Town

• Essential : Salt, pepper. Don't be shy! Season each layer.
• Aromatics : Garlic powder, onion powder. A little goes a long way.
• Spice : Red pepper flakes. Just a pinch, unless you are feeling brave.
• Substitution : No Rotel? Use diced tomatoes with a chopped jalapeño. It gets you pretty close.

Gear Up: Equipment You'll Need

Okay, here is the stuff you're gonna need for this easy chicken spaghetti recipe .

• Big pot . For boiling the pasta. Duh!
• Large skillet . For sautéing the veggies.
• 9x13 inch baking dish . This is essential if you want to create baked chicken spaghetti , which you do.
• Cheese grater . Unless you buy pre-shredded. I always grate my own, even though it is a pain.

You ready to make some magic? I know you are. Let's get cooking!

Alright, let's get down to it. You want to hear about making some good old pioneer lady chicken spaghetti , right? Honestly, this recipe screams comfort food like nobody's business.

It's the kind of thing I imagine grannies in the Midwest whipping up for a family potluck. So grab your apron, and let's dive in.

Getting Ready for Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Goodness

First things first: prep, prep, prep! Think of it as your cooking calm before the storm. I always chop my veggies before I even think about touching the chicken.

You know? That way, everything’s ready to go.

For mise en place , get that onion diced, peppers chopped, and garlic minced. Also, boil your spaghetti until it's al dente .

Not mushy! Nobody likes mushy spaghetti. And please , please remember to wash your hands. Safety first, always.

Let's Make Some Ree Drummond Chicken Spaghetti

Okay, here’s how we turn all that prep into creamy chicken spaghetti recipe heaven:

1. Sauté diced onion and bell pepper in a large pot until softened. About 5- 7 minutes should do it.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Don't burn it! That's key.
3. Stir in cooked chicken, diced. I like to use leftover rotisserie chicken. Talk about a time saver!
4. Add a can of drained Rotel tomatoes. That little bit of spice? Chef's kiss .
5. Stir in cream of mushroom soup and cream of chicken soup. Yeah, yeah, it's from a can. Don't judge.
6. Mix in the cooked spaghetti until everything is nicely coated.
7. Pour mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
8. Bake in a preheated oven at 350° F ( 175° C) for 20- 25 minutes , or until bubbly and heated through.

Homemade Chicken Spaghetti : Pro-Level Tips

Want to take your family dinner chicken spaghetti to the next level?

• Here's a tip: add a dollop of sour cream after baking for extra comfort food chicken spaghetti .
• Don’t overcook the spaghetti! Slightly undercooked is way better than mushy.
• make-ahead option: Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

One time, I totally forgot to drain the Rotel tomatoes. The casserole was way too watery. Learn from my mistakes! Another time, I didn't have Rotel, so I used a can of diced tomatoes with a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Worked like a charm. This easy chicken spaghetti recipe is super flexible. Just go with the flow, and you'll be fine.

You got this!

Recipe Notes: My Two Cents on This Deliciousness

Okay, so you're about to make some pioneer lady chicken spaghetti , huh? This isn't just a recipe. It's a hug in a bowl! Honestly, this dish screams comfort food chicken spaghetti .

Let's chat about some things I've learned making it, you know, over and over again.

Serving It Up Just Right

Presentation matters, even for chicken spaghetti casserole ! I love plating it in individual bowls. Top each with a sprinkle of extra cheese.

Maybe a dollop of sour cream too. It's just chef's kiss .

For sides? A simple green salad is always a winner. It balances the richness of the casserole perfectly. And for a drink? Sweet tea, of course! It's a Southern classic for a reason.

I've even seen it served at church potlucks!

Storing Secrets

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Let it cool down before popping it in the fridge. It will keep for about 3-4 days. I use an airtight container.

Want to freeze it? Go for it! Portion it out into freezer safe containers. It'll be good for up to 2 months.

Reheating is easy. Just thaw it overnight and bake at 350° F ( 175° C) until bubbly.

Tweaking It To Your Taste

Need a gluten-free version? Use gluten-free pasta! Simple swap, big difference. Want to lighten it up? Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. It adds tang without all the fat.

I like adding a can of diced tomatoes with green chiles ( Rotel is great!). It gives it a little kick, you know? Change based on seasons! Try adding some veggies to the recipe.

Maybe some spinach or mushrooms!

The Good Stuff Inside

Let's be real, this isn't health food. But it is good for the soul! It's packed with protein from the chicken. It has carbs for energy from the pasta.

One serving has approximately 350 calories. The recipe can have 20 grams of fat, and 30 grams of protein. It's a satisfying meal that'll keep you full for hours.

If you want a creamy chicken spaghetti recipe , you've come to the right place!

So there you have it! My little tips and tricks for making the best pioneer lady chicken spaghetti . Don't be afraid to experiment! Have fun, and enjoy every bite.

This easy chicken spaghetti recipe is a guaranteed crowd pleaser.

You can totally do this! I know you'll nail this family dinner chicken spaghetti .

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make pioneer lady chicken spaghetti ahead of time? I'm having a potluck, innit?

Absolutely! Pioneer lady chicken spaghetti is a fantastic make-ahead dish, perfect for potlucks. Just assemble it, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it'll be going in cold.

What's the best way to store leftover pioneer lady chicken spaghetti, and how long will it last? I'm always getting mugged off with food waste.

To store leftover Pioneer Woman chicken spaghetti, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator, where it will keep for 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or bake a larger portion in the oven until heated through.

Just watch it doesn't dry out in the oven.

Can I freeze pioneer lady chicken spaghetti? I like to batch cook to save time.

Yes, you can! Chicken spaghetti freezes quite well. Assemble the dish, but don't bake it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, or place it in a freezer safe container. It will last for up to 2-3 months in the freezer.

Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed, adding a little extra cream or broth if it looks dry.

I'm not a fan of canned soup. Are there any substitutes for the cream of mushroom/chicken soup in the pioneer lady chicken spaghetti recipe?

Of course! You can make your own cream sauce from scratch using butter, flour, chicken broth, and cream or milk. You can also substitute with other cream based soups like cream of celery or even a cheese sauce for a richer flavor.

For a healthier alternative, try using a blended mixture of cauliflower and broth to create a creamy base.

I only have leftover rotisserie chicken. Will that work in Pioneer Woman's chicken spaghetti? I'm feeling a bit knackered and don't want to roast a whole chicken.

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a perfect shortcut. It's already cooked and seasoned, saving you time and effort. Simply shred the rotisserie chicken and use it in the recipe as directed. It will add a lovely depth of flavor.

I'm trying to be a bit healthier. Are there any lighter alternatives I can make with the Pioneer Woman chicken spaghetti?

Sure thing. Use whole wheat pasta for a boost of fiber. You can also swap out the cream of soups for low-fat versions or make your own lighter cream sauce using skim milk and less butter. Add extra vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms to bulk up the dish and boost its nutritional value.

You could also use chicken breast instead of thigh meat to reduce the fat content.