Chicken Parmesan Baked Spaghetti Recipe

Did you know that Chicken Parmesan Baked Spaghetti can turn leftover roast chicken into a comforting dish that’s both satisfying and easy to make? This recipe combines familiar flavors in a unique way, making it a great option for family dinners. You’ll want to know how to create this delicious meal that bakes to perfection, so let’s explore the steps and tips to make your Chicken Parmesan Baked Spaghetti a success.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that won’t take up too much of your time, this Chicken Parmesan Baked Spaghetti recipe is perfect for you.

You’ll love how quick and easy it’s to prepare, taking less than an hour from start to finish. The simple ingredients, like spaghetti, tomato sauce, and shredded chicken, make it a breeze to whip up, especially if you have leftovers. This dish is also great for using leftovers from a roast chicken, making it even more convenient.

This dish is also budget-friendly, making it ideal for family dinners. Plus, you can customize it to suit your taste by adjusting the cheese or seasonings.

With its large serving size, it’s perfect for gatherings, and easy cleanup means you can enjoy the meal without the hassle.

History

The history of Chicken Parmesan is a fascinating journey that starts in Italy, where the dish has its roots.

Originally, there was melanzane alla parmigiana, made with eggplant, which became popular in southern Italy during the 18th century. Early variations even used zucchini, as noted in the 1733 cookbook “Il Cuoco Galante.”

By 1839, eggplant took over in recipes from Napoli.

When Italian immigrants came to the U.S. in the early 20th century, eggplant was harder to find, leading to chicken being used instead. This adaptation reflects the changing food availability and preferences among immigrants.

The first chicken parmesan recipes appeared in the 1940s, and by the 1950s, it became a staple in Italian-American restaurants, eventually being featured in The New York Times in 1962.

Recipe

Ingredients:
– Spaghetti
– Cooked shredded chicken
– Tomato or marinara sauce
– Mozzarella cheese
– Parmesan cheese
– Italian seasoning
– Salt
– Optional: Panko breadcrumbs, butter, fresh basil, reduced-fat cheese, vegetables (onions, carrots)

Cooking Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to guarantee it’s ready for baking the spaghetti.
Boil the spaghetti according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti with shredded chicken, tomato or marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, Italian seasoning, and salt. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Transfer the spaghetti mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Sprinkle additional mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top of the mixture. If desired, you can also add panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter for extra crunch.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired. Chicken Parmesan Baked Spaghetti is a comforting family favorite that has been enjoyed for generations.

For the best results, make certain to serve the Chicken Parmesan Baked Spaghetti immediately after cooking while it’s hot and cheesy.

This dish is versatile; feel free to experiment with different types of pasta or add vegetables to boost its nutritional value.

Additionally, using reduced-fat cheese can make this comfort food a bit healthier without sacrificing flavor. Enjoy your delicious creation!

Final Thoughts

Preparing Chicken Parmesan Baked Spaghetti can be a rewarding experience, especially when you see how much everyone enjoys it. This dish blends the comforting flavors of spaghetti, marinara, chicken, and cheese into a satisfying meal. Keep in mind the nutritional aspects; while it’s a good protein source, some versions can be high in calories and sodium. To make it healthier, consider adding more vegetables or using whole grain pasta. Additionally, this dish is a good source of protein, which can help support muscle maintenance.

You can easily customize this recipe with different cheeses or seasonings. Baking it at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 20-30 minutes will give you a deliciously bubbly result. Don’t forget to pair it with garlic bread for a complete dinner that your family will love! Enjoy your cooking!

FAQ

Got questions about Chicken Parmesan Baked Spaghetti? This dish typically uses common ingredients like spaghetti, shredded chicken, tomato sauce, mozzarella, and parmesan cheese. You can add garlic powder or herbs for extra flavor.

To prepare, boil the spaghetti, mix it with the other ingredients, and bake at 350-400°F for 25 to 40 minutes. If you want a crispy topping, consider adding breadcrumbs. Chicken Parmesan Baked Pasta is a comforting option that combines flavors and textures beautifully.

You can also customize the recipe by using different pasta shapes or adding veggies like onions and bell peppers. This meal serves about six, and you can make it ahead of time—just refrigerate before baking.

Allow it to rest for 10 minutes after cooking to enhance the flavors before serving.