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Chicken Casserole
This Chicken Casserole is a classic mid-century American comfort dish that brings together pantry staples and simple preparation for a warm, family-style meal. Built around tender chicken, spaghetti, and broccoli, it features the unmistakable creamy cheesiness of Cheez Whiz blended with milk to create a silky sauce. The recipe reflects a time when casseroles were prized for convenience, baked in large dishes to feed households economically while still feeling hearty and indulgent. It’s beloved for its combination of soft pasta, savory chicken, and vegetables in a single dish, making it easy to transport, share, and reheat. The golden cheesy top and cozy aroma from the oven make it an especially nostalgic dinner choice.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 510 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz jar Cheez Whiz
  • ½ cup milk
  • 14 oz spaghetti (cooked and drained)
  • 2 tbsp margarine
  • 10 oz frozen chopped broccoli (cooked and drained)
  • 1 cup chopped chicken (cooked)
  • 1 ½ cups mushrooms (sliced )
  • 2 tbsp pimientos (chopped )
  • ¼ tsp poultry seasoning
  • ¼ tsp onion salt

Instructions
 

Step 1: Cook spaghetti

  • Cook spaghetti according to package directions
  • Drain thoroughly

Step 2: Cook broccoli

  • Cook broccoli until tender
  • Drain well

Step 3: Combine cheese and milk

  • Place Cheez Whiz and milk in a bowl
  • Stir together until smooth

Step 4: Toss spaghetti with margarine

  • Add margarine to hot spaghetti
  • Toss until coated

Step 5: Mix all ingredients

  • Combine spaghetti, cheese mixture, broccoli, chicken, mushrooms, and pimientos
  • Add poultry seasoning and onion salt
  • Stir until evenly blended

Step 6: Bake casserole

  • Spoon mixture into a 2-quart casserole dish
  • Bake at 350°F for 30–35 minutes until hot and bubbly

Tips

  • Substitute butter for margarine for richer flavor
  • Add crushed buttery cracker topping before baking
  • Swap spaghetti with penne or rotini pasta
  • Use leftover roast chicken for convenience
  • Add peas or corn for extra color
  • Stir in sour cream for added creaminess
  • Use fresh sautéed mushrooms instead of canned
  • Top with shredded cheddar for a browned cheesy crust
  • Reduce onion salt if sodium-sensitive
  • Make ahead, refrigerate, and bake when needed

Nutrition

Calories: 510kcalCarbohydrates: 52gProtein: 24gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 1320mgPotassium: 560mgFiber: 4gSugar: 7gVitamin A: 2200IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 280mgIron: 3mg
Keyword baked chicken and noodles, cheesy chicken noodle bake, chicken casserole, chicken casserole with vegetables, chicken noodle casserole, classic family dinner casserole, comfort food, old fashioned chicken casserole, vintage chicken recipe
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